WINNIPEG — It’s official – Ian Wild is coming back to Winnipeg.
The Blue Bombers have signed the import linebacker to a deal that runs until the end of the 2017 season. Wild returns following a failed NFL tryout. Wild inked a free agent contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers in January following two seasons with the Bombers but was cut late in training camp.
“I thought I was doing well,” said Wild. “I know how the business works and have been through it before the Steelers. I know there’s limited roster spots. It was disappointing but I gave it a good effort.”
Wild posted 69 defensive tackles, 14 special teams tackles, a sack and a fumble recovery in his CFL rookie season with the Bombers playing primarily the nickel linebacker position. Last season, he lined up at middle linebacker and led the Bombers with 73 tackles.
“He’s an extremely hard worker,” said Bombers head coach Mike O’Shea. “He’s making sure guys are getting together to watch more tape. He’s always talking or thinking football. He’s a model professional.”
The 25-year-old admits he received calls from other CFL clubs interested in him but still chose Winnipeg despite its 4-8 record and dim playoff hopes.
“I know things haven’t been going so well lately,” said Wild. “Rome wasn’t built in a day. I think it takes time.”
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Wild plans to play in Friday’s home game against the Calgary Stampeders but won’t have much of a chance to prepare. The Bombers will only practice once this week despite Sunday’s loss in Montreal. The Big Blue’s bench boss says he decided to limit drills to help keep players fresh with just four days between games.
“No matter what your game plan is, if you can’t execute it physically than what’s the point,” said O’Shea.
To make room for Wild, the Bombers have released import linebacker Jasper Simmons.
THIRD DOWN: Wide receiver Julian Feoli-Gudino has been placed on Winnipeg’s six-game injured list after taking a hard hit in the fourth quarter of the Bombers 35-14 loss to the Alouettes.
The Bombers have added wide receiver Kevin Cone. The import has played a little more than three seasons in the NFL with the Atlanta Falcons, Miami Dolphins and Cleveland Browns.
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