Calgary Stampeders quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. (3) throws a touchdown pass to Damien Alford (not shown) during first half CFL action against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in Winnipeg Friday, July 18, 2025.
Winnipeg Blue Bombers faced a major setback Friday night as quarterback Zach Collaros exited the game early. He left in the second quarter after taking a heavy hit during a pass attempt that resulted in an interception. The team confirmed at halftime that he would not return.
Sudden Blow for Collaros and the Bombers
Midway through the second quarter, Collaros delivered a deep pass that was intercepted by Calgary. Immediately after the throw, he absorbed a powerful hit from a Stampeders defender.
The impact left him lying on the field for several seconds.
Medical staff quickly arrived, and though he managed to walk off under his own power, he was escorted directly to the locker room for further evaluation.
Bombers Turn to Streveler After Collaros Injury
Following the injury, the Blue Bombers brought in backup quarterback Chris Streveler to take over the offense. Streveler, who had already started the season opener due to Collaros’s suspension, stepped in with the Bombers trailing 17-13. He brought his usual mobility and energy to the field but had limited time to adjust.
Collaros’s Stats Before the Exit
Before leaving the game, Zach Collaros completed 8 of 11 pass attempts. He threw for 151 yards and one touchdown but also gave away two interceptions. His brief outing left the Blue Bombers in a difficult spot against a Calgary team looking to capitalize.
Early Season Setbacks for Winnipeg
This isn’t the first time Winnipeg has had to adjust without Collaros this season. He missed the opening game due to a suspension following a failure to report for a mandatory drug test. Streveler stepped in during that match as well and showed potential, but losing a seasoned veteran like Collaros mid-game presents a unique challenge.
No Immediate Update on Injury Cause
While the team confirmed that Collaros would not return for the rest of the match, they did not specify the exact nature of the injury. Speculation points to either a possible head or upper-body issue, but official details remain unclear. His status for upcoming games is now uncertain and will depend on further medical assessments.
What This Means for the Blue Bombers
Collaros’s injury raises significant concerns for Winnipeg moving forward. As the team’s leader and primary playmaker, his absence could impact both momentum and morale.
Streveler is a capable replacement with strong running skills, but the offense may need to adjust its strategy without Collaros’s passing expertise.
Calgary Takes Advantage
The Stampeders capitalized on the momentum swing. With Collaros out and the Bombers scrambling, Calgary held on to their lead and continued to press on both sides of the ball.
Winnipeg’s offense, though still fighting, couldn’t quite recover from the unexpected shift.
Looking Ahead
The Blue Bombers will be anxiously monitoring Collaros’s condition over the coming days. As of now, there’s no confirmed timeline for his return. Fans and teammates alike will be hoping for good news, while the coaching staff begins preparing for more time under Streveler’s command if necessary.
