August 24, 2012

Edmonton Eskimo injured linemen close to returning to action

Dale MacMillan

Chris O’Leary
Edmonton Journal

EDMONTON – The Edmonton Eskimos have taken advantage of a light schedule in August (only three games) to get a little healthier.

Offensive lineman Simeon Rottier and defensive lineman Almondo Sewell are both trying to get back into the lineup on Monday when the Eskimos take on the Argonauts at Toronto. The offensive and defensive lines have taken their share of bumps and bruises in recent weeks and are beginning to miss their starters.

“We’re not completely decided yet whether or not (Rottier will) go back, but he’s had a very good two days,” Eskimo head coach Kavis Reed said after Thursday’s practice.

“We’re leaning towards that way, but we have three more days of practice to see whether or not he makes it through. If he’s back, we hope that his timing is back, most expediently because he’s been out for four weeks now.

“We’re encouraged that he’s possibly going to be there, but nothing’s guaranteed.”

Rottier, who had his arm hyper-extended by BC Lions defensive lineman Khalif Mitchell in Week 3, is hoping to follow fellow O-lineman Greg Wojt back onto the field. Wojt played in last week’s loss to the Montreal Alouettes. It was his first action since the season opener.

The defensive line is still a M*A*S*H unit. Defensive end Marcus Howard is week-to-week with a hamstring injury and didn’t practice on Thursday. Ted Laurent is still nursing an ankle injury, and Reed said rookie defensive end Justin Capicciotti may not play as well. Lee Robinson and Sewell are working their way back and Reed will have to lean on them.

“Again, (Sewell’s return) is not a definite,” Reed said. “Coming off of a hamstring, you never know how those things will progress, but it looks like he will be back. If he does, it is a big boost for our football team.”

Reed said the juggling act has been a tough one.

“We built this team around our two lines and we had quality depth there. It was taxed, but fortunately our depth showed up and allowed us to get through this storm and we still have a ways to go we still have a number of guys who are out,” he said.

“We’re encouraged that we’re getting healthy but we still have a ways to go.”

While August gave the Eskimos a chance to rest their players, a busy five-game month awaits the team in September.

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