Ottawa Redblacks defensive lineman Daniel Okpoko discharged from hospital following alarming injury incident
The Ottawa Redblacks suffered a disappointing 30-20 loss on Friday, dropping their season record to 3-8. Amidst the setback, the team was left reeling following a concerning incident involving defensive lineman Daniel Okpoko.
Okpoko, a rookie from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, was involved in a tackle during Friday night's loss to Edmonton. After initially getting up, he collapsed and had to be immobilized and rushed off the field in an ambulance. Trainers from both teams placed him on a spine board as a precautionary measure.
In a statement after the game, the Redblacks confirmed that Okpoko was alert and responsive with feeling in all extremities. Scans conducted on Okpoko came back negative, and he was taken to a local hospital after an extended delay. The defensive lineman was later discharged from the hospital.
Okpoko has had an impressive season so far, registering 10 defensive tackles and one sack. Prior to this season, he recorded five defensive tackles in 18 games as a rookie. Originally selected with the 11th overall pick in the second round of the 2024 CFL Draft, Okpoko was drafted out of San Diego State University.
The Ottawa Redblacks will host the B.C. Lions on Friday, September 5, but they will have a bye week next week. Okpoko's status for the upcoming games remains uncertain.
The Redblacks and their fans will be hoping for a swift recovery for Okpoko, who has proven to be a valuable asset to the team this season. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the physical demands and risks associated with professional football.
