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Mathis eager for quick return but taking cautious approach

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Robert Mathis figures it’s better to be smart than fast when it comes to injuries.

Indianapolis’ Pro Bowl linebacker reiterated Thursday that he expects to be in the opening day lineup but acknowledged he wouldn’t try to rush his return.

After winning the 2013 NFL sacks title, Mathis missed all of last season. He served a four-game suspension for using a performance-enhancing substance and sat out the rest of the season after tearing his left Achilles tendon while working out at home during the suspension.

Now the 34-year-old linebacker who beat the odds by earning a college scholarship and beat them again when the Alabama A&M alum became one of the league’s fiercest pass rushers insists he can do it again.

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