Ex-Tiger-Cat hoping to make Riders debut

Eric Norwood stopped short of calling it a medical miracle, but it's been such a long road to recovery for the defensive end, he's feeling gracious to have an opportunity to return to the football field.

The Roughriders signed the 2014 eastern all-star last May, even though some were projecting Norwood would never play again.

I'm still the same animal- Eric Norwood

In last year's eastern semi-final, Norwood playedfor the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, sufferinga four-ligament tear in his right leg.

For the record, he tore his PCL, ACL, LCL and his IT Band.

"I'm the first guy to really come back from this type of injury, from a four-ligament tear. My coaches worked with me, the trainers worked with me, and the strength coaches, and all I can be is grateful for their patience invested in me." said Norwood after Riders practice on Wednesday.

Norwood has apparently been told he will play Saturday night when the Riders host the Tiger-Cats, although the coach wouldn't go on record with that in front of the media.

"He looks real good right now but we will make the determination based on what we see on film and what we see tomorrow (Thursday)." said head coach Chris Jones.

The Riders, coming off their first win in two months, could certainly use a player of Norwood's abilities.

During his all-star season in 2014, he registered 13 quarterback sacks. That's almost what the Riders have combined so far this season.

But given the seriousness of his latest injury, it's anyone guess whether he can return to that form.

"I'm glad I went through this injury. Itput me in a different place, a different mindset, but I'm still the same animal on the field and I just want to be here to help my team win in whatever role I can."

During rehab, Norwood saidhe learned how to depend on others and checkhis pride at the door.

"You learn you really can't do it all on your own that you need a support staff.You just learn to trust people more, especially with me; I'm very self-sufficient.

Extra Points

• Sunday's win over Edmonton apparently lifted team spirits. Chris Jones said the mood in practice Wednesday was reminiscent of training camp before any games were played.
• Don't expect to see Naaman Roosevelt any time soon. The Riders' top receiver is on crutches after suffering a knee injury in Winnipeg. Roosevelt is on the six-game IR and Jones said they will not hurry him back, which should snuff out any chance of a club-receiving record he was on pace for.
• Saturday's game kicks off at 7:30 CST the third last game at old Mosaic Stadium.
• The Riders' 2007 Grey Cup Championship team will be honoured at half time convenient that the coach of that team, Kent Austin, just happens to be in town with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.