Nichols undergoes season-ending shoulder surgery

WINNIPEG — If the Winnipeg Blue Bombers are going to make a run at the Grey Cup this year, it will have to be without star quarterback Matt Nichols.

The club announced Thursday that their starting pivot will be lost for the remainder of the season as he underwent a surgery to repair his shoulder.

In a team-issued statement, the club said:

“Matt Nichols sustained a significant shoulder injury in Week 10 from which he has been diligently rehabbing to try and avoid season-ending surgery and return to the playing field. After rehabbing conservatively for a period of six weeks, it was determined by the medical team that surgery would be required and a return to the field this season would not be possible. Nichols underwent successful surgery this afternoon.”

Nichols suffered an upper body injury during the team’s win over the BC Lions in Week 10. The injury was sustained on a hit by Lions defensive end Shawn Lemon. Initial reports out of Winnipeg were that the Bombers’ starting QB would be missing in action for at least four to six weeks.

Chris Streveler took over under centre and in four starts has thrown for 616 yards, four touchdowns and three interceptions while also adding 314 yards and seven majors on the ground.

Nichols was in the midst of a career season with the Bombers, compiling a 15:5 TD to INT ratio while leading the CFL with a quarterback rating of 107.2. His 8.1 yards per attempt marks his best stint as a starting quarterback in the league.

The Bombers host the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Friday night. Kickoff is slated for 8:30 p.m. ET.


Episode 44: Can anyone stop Chris Streveler?

Has Chris Streveler become the No. 1 Fantasy QB? Plus, how will James Franklin perform in his return? Pat Steinberg, Jeff Krever and Hannah Nordman debate in this week’s podcast.