Canadian LB Fraser Sopik out for Toronto Argonauts vs. Bombers

Photo courtesy: Scott Grant/CFLPhotoArchive.com

The Toronto Argonauts will be without Canadian linebacker Fraser Sopik when they kick off Thanksgiving weekend in the CFL on Friday.

The 27-year-old has been unable to practice this week due to a hand injury and will sit out, though the expected duration of his absence is not currently known. The Argonauts are no longer able to designate players to the six-game injured list as they have played more than 15 games this year.

Sopik has been enjoying a career year since joining the Argonauts in free agency this offseason, establishing himself as a starter at weakside linebacker. Through 15 games, he has amassed 57 defensive tackles — nearly double his previous career total of 33 — while adding six special teams tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble.

American rookie Isaac Darkangelo will take over the starting job in the interim, having notched 18 defensive tackles and a forced fumble in five appearances. Defensive tackle Jordan Williams will also dress for depth after recording 10 tackles and two sacks in six previous outings.

On special teams, long snapper Adam Guillemette will sit out after being limited throughout the week with a back injury. Rookie Simon Chaves, who was signed on Tuesday, will handle those duties.

The Toronto Argonauts (8-7) will visit the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (10-6) on Friday, October 11, at 8:30 p.m. EDT. With a victory, the Argonauts can clinch a playoff spot.

Graphic courtesy: Toronto Argonauts