By Liz Mathews

Seahawks cornerback Brandon Browner spoke to the media on Thursday for the first time since returning from his four-game suspension.

Browner was suspended on Dec. 5 for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances. Unlike his teammate and fellow cornerback Richard Sherman, who appealed the testing process and ultimately won, Browner elected to serve the suspension.

"It was about that time," Browner said. "Sometimes you make mistakes and I was fortunate enough the guys continued to win."

Browner returned home to California to work out during his suspension, running three times a week and simulating the team workouts. He watched the Seahawks win their way into the playoffs without him.

"It was fun because we were kicking everybody's butt," Browner said. "I was missing not playing with the guys, you know, but it was awesome to watch from that perspective. The progression of our quarterback is awesome. He's playing like one of the elite quarterbacks."

Browner also said the defense was playing "lights out" and hadn't skipped a beat since he left in December.

Browner was activated to the 53-man roster on Monday and is eligible to play in Sunday's playoff game against Washington.

"Most definitely, it's starts in the head, I'm mentally tough," Browner said when asked if he's ready for Sunday. "It starts in the head. I know I'll be a little tired out there, but at the end of the day, I'm fighting for a playoff victory."