The B.C. Lions will be without their top defensive playmaker when they face the Ottawa Redblacks on Saturday night.
Veteran Canadian linebacker Bo Lokombo (ribs) has been moved to the six-game injured list. The 32-year-old leads the Leos with 66 defensive tackles through 12 games, in addition to two special teams tackles, three sacks, two tackles for loss, three pass knockdowns, and an interception.
Now in his ninth professional season, the Abbotsford native was on pace to set new career highs and could have surpassed his accomplishments from the 2021 season, when he won Most Outstanding Canadian.
Taking Lokombo’s place at weakside linebacker is second-year American Josh Woods, who has recorded 21 defensive tackles and eight special teams tackles in a significant rotational role this year. Canadian rookie Jack Hinsperger will dress for depth.
Saturday will also mark the return of cornerback Jalon Edwards-Cooper, who has been battling a shoulder injury. The 23-year-old has notched 23 tackles, an interception, and a forced fumble in 10 games this year. His replacement, Mike Jones, has been placed on the six-game injured list.
Remaining out long-term for the Lions are offensive linemen Phil Norman and Chris Schleuger, receiver Dominique Rhymes, running back Kienan LaFrance, linebacker Isaiah Guzylak-Messam, and defensive tackle Nathan Cherry.
The Lions (8-4) will host the Redblacks (3-9) on Saturday, September 16 at 7:00 p.m. EDT. This is the first and only matchup between the two teams this season.
