Bulldogs in the NFL

NORMAL – The National Football League ended its regular season and the two current Bulldogs in the NFL are on teams that did not make the playoffs.

The Indianapolis Colts defensive end Robert Mathis ended his ninth season with the Colts posting 43 total tackles, 9.5 sacks and three force fumbles. His career totals include 395 tackles, 83.5 sacks, 12 passes defended and 39 force fumbles.

Mathis finished out a five year deal this season and looks to be resigned by the Colts for a tenth year.

The three-time All-Pro was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance in the Indianapolis Colts’ 19-16 win over Houston in week 17. Mathis registered two sacks and three tackles while forcing and recovering a fumble. The sacks upped his season total to a team-high 8.5.

The honor was the third weekly recognition of Mathis’ career but the Colts’ first this season. The Colts ended the season 2-14.

The Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Frank Kearse enjoyed his first season as a professional athlete. Kearse was drafted by the Miami Dolphins and signed a two-year contract.

After two weeks on the practice squad he then signed to the Panthers active roster and was activated in week 13 starting four contests totaling 10 tackles, a half sack and a pass defended.

Carolina finished 3-2 when Kearse was in the lineup.

Both former Bulldogs have graduated from Alabama A&M and look forward to the off-season and the 2012 season.

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