FRANKLIN, Ind. — Tom Moore and Howard Mudd will return to the Indianapolis Colts as consultants in time for training camp in August and handle "very significant roles,‘’ according to the team’s owner.

Jim Irsay confirmed Saturday evening the two long-time assistants, who retired last month because of concerns with the NFL’s pension program, are eager to resume their roles on coach Jim Caldwell’s offensive staff. Moore had served as coordinator and Mudd as offensive line coach since 1998. They won’t have the same titles, but will perform similar duties to what they’ve done in the past.

“They’re coming back,‘’ Irsay said after signing autographs and mingling with fans for 45 minutes following his team’s practice. “They’re coming back as consultants and they’re going to be involved big time. Jim Caldwell will determine what that will be.‘’Irsay said Moore, 70, and Mudd, 67, told him they still have the desire to coach at least one more year. Caldwell’s wanted them to return.”This was Jim Caldwell’s call ultimately,‘’ Irsay said. "Bill (Polian, team president) and I are there to support the head coach, and we do. I asked Jim what he wanted, and he wanted to see these guys come back and be part of things. Everything is good.’‘Irsay revealed Moore and Mudd will start getting paid on Aug. 1 and "we’ll go forward from there. There is no obstacle of any real aspect that is in the way of doing what I want to do.’’