Lions and Bombers Swap Verteran Running Backs

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers and British Columbia Lions have worked out a deal that sees veteran running backs Charles Roberts and Joe Smith change teams.

The running backs, both 29, have struggled this year after finishing 1-2 in the CFL in rushing yards in 2007. Winnipeg's Charles Roberts, here pursued by Hamilton players, has had trouble breaking free from tacklers this season. (John Woods/Canadian Press)
“Charles is a very talented player with a excellent football resumé, and I believe he will be an exciting addition to our team,” Lions general manager and coach Wally Buono said in a statement on Tuesday.

Smith gained 1,510 rushing yards to lead the league and set a franchise record for the Lions in 2007, but this season has just 236 yards on 55 carries.

A shoulder injury halted Smith's progress early this season, and he endured criticism for stating that football was more of a job than a passion. He has gradually been supplanted by Stefan Logan.

Roberts has been given more game opportunities than Smith this season, but has only occasionally resembled the back who rushed for 1,375 yards or better in each of the five previous seasons. Joe Smith led the CFL in rushing last season. (Richard Lam/Canadian Press)
Roberts has gained 517 yards and averaged 4.7 yards per carry this year. Both totals are below the standard of his previous seasons. He is on pace for a career-high in receptions, with 38 so far, but his 6.6 yards-per-catch average is the lowest of his career.

Roberts is 13 yards shy of becoming the fifth man in CFL history to rush for 10,000 yards in a career.

"When you think about what Charles Roberts has meant to this franchise … it was a very difficult decision,” said Brendan Taman, general manager of the Blue Bombers. “But this is also a business where we have to make this right decision for our football club. And while Charles has meant so much to this organization, it was time to turn the page.

"Joe Smith is a tremendous addition to our football team and going into the second half of the season, he will be looked upon to be an important contributor.”

B.C. (4-5) visits Hamilton on Saturday, while Winnipeg (2-7) hosts Saskatchewan the following day.

The Lions and Blue Bombers won't meet again in the regular season, having already played each other twice.