May 26, 2023; Hamilton, Ontario, CAN; Hamilton Tiger-Cats defeat the Toronto Argonauts 27-25 in a pre-season game at Tim Hortons Field. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski
Bo Levi Mitchell returned to practice for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats Tuesday at Tim Hortons Field for the first time since suffering a lower-leg-fracture in Hamilton’s 16-12 road win over Ottawa on July 28th.
Following surgery Mitchell was placed on the six-game injured list with the expectation of returning later in the season.
On Tuesday he returned on day 1 of practice, splitting first team reps with Matthew Shiltz.
Mitchell spoke about the task of returning from the injury, and he gave praise to the training staff.
“There’s such a great group here, everybody in that room takes care of us. The team here and the resources they give you is pretty unmatched from what I’ve heard and what I know. They gave me an opportunity to be back as fast as I could.” Said Mitchell.
Today was the first practice Bo Levi Mitchell has participated in since sustaining the leg injury back in July and he mentioned how it felt to get back on the field.
“It felt good putting the helmet back on and just being back out there, competing with the teammates. The camaraderie of being back out there feels great, I wish it could have been sooner but I got back there as fast as I could.” Said Mitchell.
Rookie Quarterback Taylor Powell made an impact during Mitchell’s absence, posting 2,177 passing yards, 10 Touchdown passes and 187 completions in 9 starts.
Mitchell spoke about Powell’s impact during his time out of the lineup.
“It’s warranted that we have to talk about Taylor, we’re not in this position without him, as a rookie to step in for two veterans for eight games and essentially get us into a winning position. That guy’s work ethic and his tireless effort to be great is pretty unmatched and amazing to watch, one of the best I’ve ever seen from a rookie as far as a guy that’s ready to go and seems like a veteran already.”
Mitchell acknowledged the impact Senior Assistant Coach and Offensive Play Caller Scott Milanovich has had on the offence since he took over duties in early August.
“What Scott brings is a certain level of command and detail, to make sure that you are ready and prepared for every situation we can see. He gives a Quarterback an opportunity to be successful,” Said Mitchell.
The Ticats currently sit third in the Eastern Division and have three games remaining on the schedule.
Mitchell discussed the importance of having a strong finish heading into the playoffs.
“Clinching a playoff spot is not enough. Yes we got our ticket to the dance, it’s not just about getting there. We have to make sure that we are building and continuing this momentum going into playoffs”.
President of Football Operations and Head Coach Orlondo Steinauer mentioned that it’s good to see Mitchell back on the field.
“It’s time for Bo to get some reps and mix in there a little bit. We are satisfied with where he was at, throwing on air, throwing different routes so the next step for him was to get out there and take a few reps. It’s good to see him back out there in the element and have some meaningful throws.” Said Steinauer.
Mitchell and the Ticats will return to practice tomorrow at Tim Hortons Field.
For more on the story listen to Ticats Today .
