November 9, 2006
"50-50" Odds on Return for Mathis
For a player known for his stunning returns, it seems a bit ironic that Jerome Mathis is having a rather difficult time making his return to the field. In a press conference earlier this week, head coach Gary Kubiak sounded pessimistic about the health of his second-year receiver and kick returner, even questioning whether he will it back on the roster this season.
"Jerome has got to take a couple big steps before you all are going to see him on the field," Kubiak said. "So I would say its 50-50 with Jerome on whether he will come back and play this year."
Kubiak sent Mathis to the physically unable to perform list following the discovery of a slight fracture in his foot over the summer, an injury Mathis possibly suffered during his play in February's Pro Bowl. Prior to finding the injury, Mathis had fallen off his motorcycle in April, absorbing minor injuries to his arms and hands.
As a rookie last season, Mathis earned an invite to the Pro Bowl representing the AFC squad. He finished second in the league with a 28.6-yard average on his kickoff returns, taking two kickoffs all the way back for touchdowns.
Mathis was also expected to improve upon his contributions as a receiver, perhaps pushing for time as the third option after Andre Johnson and Eric Moulds on the depth chart.