The Passion Of Joe Mathis
By Bret Stuter
![Sep 3, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies linebacker Joe Mathis (5) celebrates a tackle with defensive back Jojo McIntosh (14) against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Washington won 48-13. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports Sep 3, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies linebacker Joe Mathis (5) celebrates a tackle with defensive back Jojo McIntosh (14) against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Washington won 48-13. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/564f5c5444b814e59695bbef690ba65342645a942754a07b0e63814c7a326a9c.jpg)
Injured Foot, Burning Desire
He had injured his foot, and was unable to suit up for the next three games.
"“When I got hurt.. as soon as I got hurt, I felt the pop and I knew it was a flash of my future. I had a tough time. At first, I didn’t want to come to the training facilities. I lost weight. It felt like football was taken from me. Ultimately It was a test, to set me back and handle adversity. I had some tell me I was going to struggle to get back on the field. But I couldn’t take that to heart. It was ligament damage to my right foot. The procedure actually improved my flexibility. The result is that I have more spring, and they even improved my calves."
Foot Surgery
On November 7, 2016, Coach Petersen announced Joe Mathis would have foot surgery. His season was over.
"If Washington's Joe Mathis had a full senior season he'd be a first round lock"
— PFF (@PFF) April 4, 2017
- @PFF_Mikehttps://t.co/5T5ushm34r
There are times when a person must walk a path alone. This was not such a time. Mathis had an addiction to football, a passion, and he was now cut off. He needed somebody to step up for him.
His wife Savitri stepped up, and stood by, Joe Mathis.