RIDERS STILL WAITING ON OWENS

The “Flyin’ Hawaiian” is still grounded.

Veteran receiver/returner Chad Owens has been practicing at what appears to be full speed this week with the Saskatchewan Roughriders as they prepare to visit the Edmonton Eskimos Friday night (7:30 pm, TSN, CKRM).

A nagging injury – believed to be lower body – has prevented the 35-year old from making his Saskatchewan debut after signing with the club this off-season.

And it appears he’ll have to wait a little longer.

“I want to make sure that Chad is completely, 100% healthy,” said Roughriders Head Coach & GM Chris Jones after Tuesday’s closed practice. “I’m watching him very closely because I know what a fresh CO looks like. And then, when the opportunity comes at the right time, he’ll go in the game.”

So for the time being, the Roughriders are content to go with rookie Christion Jones returning punts. The freshman from the Alabama Crimson Tide program has been very impressive this season.

“He’s averaging 19.9 per return,” Jones said of his namesake. “He needs to make sure he fields all balls cleanly. He’s certainly a confident player. He’s learning our offense. He’s certainly added a lot to our football team.”

The Roughriders will hold an open practice on Wednesday at 11:00 am at Leibel Field. They’ll depart for this week’s game on Thursday.

RP
@rodpedersen