Colts' Mathis apologizes to teammates for suspension

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) Colts linebacker Robert Mathis has apologized to his teammates for the four-game suspension he received from the NFL.

On Wednesday, Mathis spoke publicly for the first time since the league announced he had violated its performance-enhancing substance abuse policy.

Mathis had previously admitted to taking fertility medication that contained a substance on the NFL's banned list. He also said he did not check with league officials or the players union to determine if anything he used might cause a positive drug test.

Defensive end Cory Redding, one of Mathis' closest friends, says he didn't need to hear an apology. He says Mathis acknowledged it was his mistake.

Mathis can participate in offseason workouts, training camp and preseason games. He can return to the team Sept. 29.