AP

The Colts have understandably taken things slowly with pass-rush specialist Robert Mathis in his return to health and full speed.

With the defense in need of a boost, getting Mathis more action appears to be part of the plan to provide that boost.

“I think Robert’s snaps will be up a little bit more this week,” Colts defensive coordinator Robert Manusky told reporters 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.”

Colts Coach Chuck Pagano was more succinct.

“He’s going to get more snaps,” Pagano said.

Mathis played just 18 snaps last week. The most he’s played in a game this season is 32.

The Colts have recorded eight sacks on the season, by eight different players. Mathis has one of them. The Colts are giving up more than 400 yards and 24 points per game.

Mathis, 34, has played his entire career with the Colts. After tearing his Achilles last year, he needed to have 10 surgical procedures to prevent infections and make sure his Achilles healed properly.

So, Mathis is serious about wanting to help the Colts. We’ll see if getting more reps helps him — and the Colts defense — get going again.