Robert Mathis Snap Count to Increase

Through six weeks, the Indianapolis Colts have failed to generate anything resembling a consistent pass rush. There is some hope, however, as Robert Mathis is expected to get more in coming weeks.

Colts head coach Chuck Pagano and defensive coordinator Greg Manusky told reporters this week that Mathis’ snap count is going to increase.

"“He’s going to get more snaps,” Pagano said.“I think Robert’s snaps will be up a little bit more this week,” Manusky said on Thursday. “I think every week we’re just keep on trying to grow with him. The more that he can handle, the better it is for us.”"

Against the Patriots, Mathis had just 18 snaps. Part of that, according to the coaches, was due to the pace at which the Patriots were playing which made substitutions difficult.

Mathis is the all-time franchise leader in sacks with 112. In 2013, he led the NFL with 19.5 but was suspended for the start of the 2014 season for taking a banned substance. Mathis tore his achilles in September of 2014 and needed 10 surgeries to repair and prevent infection.

Mathis’ return to the field was always going to be a slow process. He has yet to be anything resembling the difference maker he once was, but is still the best pass rusher on the roster. The Colts haven’t gotten any production out of Trent Cole, who was expected to be an insurance against another Mathis injury. Jonathan Newsome hasn’t had quite the impact he had in his rookie season either.

The lack of pass rush has been the biggest problem on the Colts defense this season. They’re giving opposing quarterbacks ample time to pick apart a questionable secondary. So far this season, eight different players have recorded a sack with Mathis being one of them.

More reps for Mathis should help fix the Colts pass rush, but they will need more than just him for the defense to show signs of improvement.