Simpson’s future with Blue uncertain

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This article was published 11/09/2009 (5865 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Linebacker Barrin Simpson, Winnipeg’s leading tackler, will not play for the Blue Bombers Sunday and his future with the CFL team is unclear.

Simpson, who has been hampered by a turf toe injury for most of the season, has become embroiled in a dispute with the team over his playing time.

The 31-year-old has chafed under the direction of head coach Mike Kelly and defensive co-ordinator Mark Nelson and the club is now actively attempting to trade the respected defender.

Simpson got into a heated discussion with staff members during practice at Canad Inns Stadium early Thursday afternoon. The talk centred around him not playing Sunday when the Bombers host the Saskatchewan Roughriders and limiting his playing time going forward.

A club source admitted the team and Simpson were at odds, but would not confirm the team has given the linebacker permission to seek a trade. The Blue Bombers would not offer official comment.

A league source, however, confirmed late Thursday night that the Bombers have been contacting teams in an attempt to trade the now embattled Simpson.

Simpson has 58 tackles this season, second in the CFL, despite playing the entire regular season with a painful turf toe injury that has limited his practice time all year.

Kelly was asked about Simpson earlier Thursday but said only that the player "has an angry joint," and did not shed any light on Simpson’s gripe with the coaching staff.

Media members attempted to interview Simpson in the locker-room following practice but were told by team media relations manager Darren Cameron he was unavailable. As Simpson was leaving the locker-room he was asked by the Free Press what his status was for this weekend and he replied, "questionable."

Simpson joined the Bombers for the 2006 season after spending five campaigns with the B.C. Lions. He missed most of last season with a torn biceps injury.

gary.lawless@freepress.mb.ca