WINNIPEG — Five members of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, including three rookies, have been named CFL All-Stars for the 2016 season.
Running back Andrew Harris, offensive lineman Travis Bond, safety Taylor Loffler, defensive back T.J. Heath and kicker Justin Medlock were all honoured after helping their team clinch its first playoff berth since 2011.
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Harris ran the ball 195 times for 974 yards and four touchdowns in 15 games this season. He also had 67 catches for 631 yards and a touchdown. The Winnipegger was named an all-star twice before in his seven-year CFL career.
Bond was chosen as the Bombers’ top offensive lineman this season. He made his league debut in Winnipeg’s 30-23 victory over the Edmonton Eskimos in Week 6.
Loffler also picks up an all-star award in his first season. The 19th overall pick in the 2016 CFL Draft was named Winnipeg’s top rookie after racking up four interceptions, four forced fumbles, a sack and 58 defensive tackles this season.
Heath finished the year tied for the league lead in interceptions with seven. He also had 51 defensive tackles. Heath was acquired by the Bombers in September as part of the Drew Willy trade.
Medlock won the CFL’s Most Outstanding Special Teams award following a record breaking season. He hit 60 of his 68 field goal attempts to snap a 26-year-old mark. Medlock also set a franchise record for most points in a season with 227.
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Bombers linebacker Maurice Leggett was not honoured despite having seven interceptions this season, three of which were returned for a touchdown. Leggett was named a CFL West Division All-Star and Winnipeg’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player. News of him being left off the CFL All-Star team shocked some opponents.
The last time five or more Bombers were named league all-stars was in 2001.
Of the 27 players honoured this year by the CFL, 23 dressed for teams in the West Division.
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