Sore knee slows Blue Bombers' Stegall

All-star slotback Milt Stegall is back for a 14th season with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, but he won't hit the field for another few weeks.

Stegall, 38, underwent arthroscopic surgery May 2 on his knee after experiencing discomfort during off-season workouts and won't participate in training camp that opens later this week.

"The operation went well and I have been in rehab every single day since the procedure," Stegall said in a statement. "After the injury, I was in communication and consultation with the Blue Bombers medical staff.

"We decided that an arthroscopic procedure was the best option. I look forward to helping the team off the field throughout training camp and returning to the field when I am healthy."

Stegall, the CFL's all-time touchdown leader with 144, put off retirement on Jan. 31.

He has some unfinished business after leading all receivers with five catches for 85 yards in a 23-19 loss to Saskatchewan in the 95th Grey Cup on Nov. 25 in Toronto.

Stegall finished last season with 69 catches for 1,108 yards, his ninth consecutive 1,000-yard campaign, and reportedly played the final six regular-season games and three playoff contests of last season with a torn rotator cuff in his left shoulder.

"Milt has been a pro for this franchise since Day 1 and he continues to be in his rehabilitation," said Blue Bombers general manager Brendan Taman. "Milt is the first to understand what a long season it is and it is important for him to be healthy when he returns to the lineup."

Last season, Stegall broke the CFL record for career touchdowns when he eclipsed the mark of 137 shared by George Reed and Mike Pringle. Stegall holds several other league records, including most career touchdown catches.

The CFL's most outstanding player in 2001 is 196 yards shy of Allen Pitts's all-time CFL receiving yardage record of 14,891.

However, Stegall has never played for a Grey Cup-winning team.

"Our focus remains on the season and to compete for a championship," said Winnipeg head coach Doug Berry. "With Milt out, other players will have to step up in his absence.

"Our goals remain the same."

The Bombers also announced Tuesday they have released veteran cornerback Juran Bolden.