Dru Brown leads Bombers in first post-season practice

History continues to repeat itself for Zach Collaros.

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers quarterback suffered yet another setback over the weekend and there’s a strong possibility he will miss Saturday’s Eastern semifinal against the Toronto Argonauts at BMO Field.

The 38-year-old, who is listed on the injury report with a rib injury, watched Tuesday’s practice in street clothes as backup pivot Dru Brown worked with the starters.

Collaros was driven into the turf by B.C. Lions defensive lineman Nathan Cherry late in the third quarter of last Friday’s regular-season finale in Vancouver.

In the past two years, Collaros has not gone on to play after missing Day 1 of practice.

Given his age, injury history and the fact he’s on an expiring deal, it’s possible that was his last snap in blue and gold, and perhaps of his career.

“It’s tough to put into words. I’ve played a lot of football with Zach and had a lot of good times together on and off the field, so, it’s just unfortunate,” said receiver Nic Demski.

“But you know, I try to be positive with him. I try to be there for him as much as possible as well. But Zach is just a competitor no matter if he’s playing or if he’s helping. No matter what happens, I know he’s going to be around the guys and try to uplift everybody.”

With that said, it’s not a head or neck injury — something Collaros has dealt with on numerous occasions before. So with that, and what’s at stake, maybe, just maybe, he’ll get the green light.

“I’ll give him every opportunity to declare himself healthy,” said head coach Mike O’Shea. “I would never doubt that guy.”

Either way, this is why the Bombers paid for Collaros’ insurance by acquiring Brown in June. The price was steep, with Winnipeg sending a 2027 first-round draft pick and a conditional 2028 second-rounder to the Ottawa Redblacks, but the move has paid dividends with Collaros leaving three games early and missing six entirely.

“He was brought in for this reason,” said O’Shea. “He’s a pro. He’s always prepared.”

Brown came off the bench on Friday and quickly erased a 10-3 deficit against the Lions, leading the Bombers to a convincing 34-10 victory in a must-win game to secure their playoff berth. He went a perfect 11-for-11 for 185 yards and two touchdowns in just over a quarter of action.

“I think outside the building, people would be shocked and enamoured, but for us, it’s like routine: it’s Dru Brown,” said right guard Patrick Neufeld.

“He’s been a starter, he’s played a lot of meaningful football and we have all the confidence in the world when he comes into the huddle.”

Brown seems to be at his best when he’s thrust into action in less than ideal situations — something he has no explanation for. He has completed 69.9 per cent of his passes for 1,687 yards, 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions this season while going 2-4 as a starter.

“I don’t know if I could really tell you. I typically seem to do really well when everyone is doing their job and I’m doing mine,” said Brown. “I think that’s kind of the essence of the game.”

While Brown appreciates every chance he gets to play, it’s been a tough go to see Collaros go through everything he has this season.

“I don’t try to act like I’ve been in his shoes. I don’t know, I guess I try to think about it if that was me, I wouldn’t want people asking me how I’m feeling all the time so I just try to treat him normally, like I always do,” said Brown.

“If he feels like he needs to share stuff with me, then I’m there for him. Obviously, I care about him and it’s always unfortunate whether it’s him or anyone else has to go through stuff like that.”

Brown is also trying to treat this week normally. That’ll be easier said than done considering not only is it a playoff game, but he’s also in the final year of his contract, making this a major opportunity to showcase his abilities to the Bombers and the rest of the CFL.

“I don’t really try to look at it that way. I think it would probably be a little overwhelming if you’re just constantly thinking about that type of thing,” said Brown.

“For me, I’m playing football right now and I love it. It’s a lot of fun. I love competing. I love the guys here. So, I try to just be in the moment and enjoy it with the guys that we have.”

Brown’s season started in Ottawa where they cast him aside and publicly criticized his arm talent. The 29-year-old is now potentially leading a team into the playoffs.

“I’m sure people look at it like that. I’m sure I will look at it like that later down the line,” admitted Brown. “But I just want to do whatever the guys need this week — whether that’s me playing or not — to try and help us win.”

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