lobendahn
Linebacker Joe Lobendahn while with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are adding yet another player to the roster as they look to find a spark to end their five game losing streak.  Linebacker Joe Lobendahn was practicing with the team on Monday and will be added the roster pending a physical on Tuesday.

Head coach Corey Chamblin says he likes the veteran presence and intensity that the 29-year-old brings, "He's a guy that even when I was in Hamilton I looked at getting Joe.  He's fierce, I met with him (Sunday) and I was scared."

Chamblin says he wants his players to scare him and that's what he feels Lobendahn will bring to the team, "He has that ferociousness, that fierceness, and he has a lot to prove to himself that he can still do this, so I think he'll be a good addition for us."

Lobendahn was with the Calgary Stampeders during training camp, but was released a couple weeks into the season.  He began his CFL career with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2008 and was there for four seasons before suffering a knee injury in 2011.

"I think the knee will hold up," said Chamblin when asked about the injury and upcoming physical for Lobendahn.  "He passed a physical with Calgary and they do a pretty good with their medical staff.  The biggest thing is we'll see how he gets out and runs around here this week, and we'll try to fit him in somewhere.  He's an added presence to this team."

Chamblin added that bringing in the new middle linebacker shouldn't be taken as a shot at the play of Shomari Williams, who's held down that spot for much of the season.

"Shomari is a young guy who I'm very pleased with and his growth process," explained Chamblin.  "Last week Shomari played Will instead of Mack because I think that suits him even better because he's in the shorter area and he can use his speed."

The Riders have Tuesday off before returning to practice on Wednesday.  They host the, also struggling, Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Sunday in the Labour Day Classic.