Bombers’ defensive end Jackson Jeffcoat: ‘If they let me go, I’m ready’

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Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ defensive lineman Jackson Jeffcoat was a full participant in practice on Tuesday after missing Week 1 due to an ankle injury.

“If they let me go, I’m ready. I’m excited,” Jackson told the media in Winnipeg, though he declined to confirm whether or not he’ll play.

The Blue Bombers narrowly defeated the Ottawa Redblacks last week when a late 25-yard field goal by Marc Liegghio made the final score 19-17. Jeffcoat found it hard to sit out the season-opener and is hoping to play on Friday when the teams play the second half of a home-and-home at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa.

“It’s always frustrating to miss any games at all,” said Jeffcoat. “I’m just amped up, hopefully get the opportunity to go.”

The 31-year-old was replaced by rookies L.B. Mack III and Cedric Wilcots II this past week who combined for one defensive tackle. Strong-side linebacker Donald Rutledge Jr. made Winnipeg’s only sack in the game as Jeremiah Masoli threw for 380 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in his Ottawa debut.

Jeffcoat is coming off his best CFL season during which he recorded 26 tackles, nine sacks, and four forced fumbles. He was named a CFL all-star for the first time in his four-year career and continued his strong play in the postseason, making two tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble in the West Final.

The native of Dallas, Texas has recorded 109 total tackles, 26 sacks, nine forced fumbles, and one interception over 52 career games with the Blue Bombers.