Two of the best first-year players in the CFL won’t be on the field for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats this week.
Receiver Shemar Bridges (quad) and running back Greg Bell (ribs) have both been placed on the one-game injured list ahead of Friday’s matchup with Winnipeg. Bridges enters the week sitting fourth in CFL receiving, having caught 83 passes for 933 yards and four touchdowns. Bell has played just six games but has carried the ball 68 times for 395 yards and five touchdowns, adding 25 receptions for 208 yards and another major.
Veteran James Butler will take back over at running back, having rushed 103 times for 498 yards and a touchdown through 10 games, along with 43 catches for 356 yards and another major. Fellow rookie Dezmon Patmon will step into the starting lineup for Bridges, having caught five passes for 63 yards in four previous appearances.
The Tabbies are also expected to be without one of their top pass rushers, as defensive end Nick Usher (ankle) has also been placed on the one-game injured list. The 29-year-old has posted 30 tackles, three sacks, and a forced fumble in 15 games this year and will be replaced by newcomer Tim Ward. Defensive tackle Trevon Mason will also draw into the lineup, with Mario Kendricks going to the practice roster alongside Canadian defensive back Patrick Burke Jr.
Centre David Beard was not listed on this week’s injury report but has been named a game-time decision. Veteran Canadian Evan Johnson will dress for insurance.
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats (6-9) will host the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (9-6) on Friday, October 4 at 7:00 p.m. EDT.
