Former CFL quarterback Chris Streveler is heading back to Winnipeg, just not in the capacity that Bombers fans might hope for.
On Thursday, the Blue Bombers announced that their former dual-threat backup would be in attendance for Saturday’s Banjo Bowl rematch against the Saskatchewan Roughriders. He will be signing autographs from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. local time during the pregame tailgate, in addition to other exclusive events.
Earlier in the day, Streveler shared a picture of himself in his Bombers’ uniform to his Instagram story, expressing his excitement about the trip.
While former players signing autographs at games is nothing new in the CFL, Streveler’s case is unique. The 28-year-old was waived by the New York Jets on August 7 due to an injury to his throwing thumb and is currently a free agent on both sides of the border.
The fan favourite rose to prominence in the CFL during two seasons with the Bombers (2018-19) during which he completed 65 percent of his passes for 2,698 yards, 19 touchdowns and 19 interceptions. He also rushed for 1,167 yards and 22 touchdowns, averaging 5.7 yards per carry.
Streveler was especially effective during Winnipeg’s championship run in 2019, rushing for 82 yards and a touchdown in the West Semi-Final before throwing a touchdown pass to Andrew Harris in the Grey Cup.
He signed with the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals ahead of the 2020 season and has since spent time with the Baltimore Ravens, Miami Dolphins, and Jets. In nine career NFL games, he has thrown for 231 yards, one touchdown and one interception while rushing for 75 yards. Last season he became officially vested in the NFL’s pension plan, which provides $19,800 USD annually for life.
The Banjo Bowl between the Bombers (9-3) and Riders (6-5) is scheduled to kick off on Saturday, September 9 at 4:00 p.m. EDT.
