Bombers sign O’Meara

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have inked Matt O’Meara to a new contract, but still expect their three other free-agent unsigned offensive linemen to hit the open market at midnight on Sunday.
 

O’Meara (6-5, 285, McMaster) was a versatile depth player along the O-line in 2008, starting six games at both guard positions with injuries to Brendon LaBatte and Kyle Koch. The former OUA first-team all-star during his days at McMaster is entering his fifth year in the league, and third with the Bombers after being acquired from the Saskatchewan Roughriders for a fifth round draft pick in the 2007 CFL Canadian Draft.
 

“Matt is a great example of how important depth is on the offensive line. Last year he stepped in when needed, and did an admirable job,” said head coach Mike Kelly.
 

Still unsigned, however, are starting left tackle Alexandre Gauthier, centre Dominic Picard and Koch, all three of whom are expected to become free agents. Both Gauthier and Picard apparently had the salary figure they requested met by the Bombers, but are leaning to signing elsewhere. In fact, Gauthier has reportedly already told some of his Bomber teammates he will not be back in 2009.
 

The other unsigned Bombers are fullback Graeme Bell, defensive lineman Jon Oosterhuis and linebackers Ike Charlton and Cam Hall.