Edmonton Elks’ defensive linemen Jared Brinkman, Robbie Smith return vs Bombers

Photo courtesy: Edmonton Elks

The Edmonton Elks will have a pair of star defensive linemen back in the lineup on Saturday when they clash with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

American defensive tackle Jared Brinkman and Canadian defensive end Robbie Smith will both make their return after being limited in practice this week. Brinkman sat out the team’s last game due to shoulder and foot injuries, but has made 21 tackles and one sack in 14 games. Smith, the CFL’s highest-paid defensive player, has been out since Week 12 due to an ankle injury and has just 16 defensive tackles in eight games since signing in Edmonton.

Also back this week is Global linebacker Eteva Mauga-Clements, who has 10 special teams tackles in nine games this year. Global defensive lineman Richard Jibunor has been returned to the practice roster, while American defensive lineman Elijah Alston and Canadian defensive lineman D.K. Bonhomme are listed as healthy scratches.

The Edmonton Elks (6-9) will host the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (8-7) at Commonwealth Stadium on Saturday, October 11, with kickoff slated for 7:00 p.m. EDT. Both teams are coming off bye weeks, with the Blue Bombers hoping to clinch a playoff spot with a victory and the Elks facing elimination if they lose.

The weather forecast in Edmonton calls for a high of 6 degrees with a 30 percent chance of showers. The game will be broadcast on TSN in Canada and CFL+ internationally. Radio listeners can tune in on 880 CHED in Edmonton and 680 CJOB in Winnipeg.