CALGARY — Calgary Stampeders quarterback Dave Dickenson will miss the remainder of the season with post-concussion symptoms, leaving the future of his CFL career in doubt.
The Stampeders placed the 35-year-old on the nine-game injured reserve list Wednesday, effectively ending his season. The 11-year CFL veteran relieved injured starter Henry Burris in Monday's 37-16 loss to the Edmonton Eskimos, and showed no ill effects during the game.
But Dickenson told Calgary reporters he's been feeling symptoms similar to those he felt in the past following serious shots to the head. He consulted with doctors, who suggested he shut down for the rest of the season.
“Your body tells you certain things, and sooner or later you better listen,” said Dickenson, who wouldn't elaborate on which symptoms he was dealing with.
“When you get certain things that arise when you really don't feel like you necessarily took a substantial hit, that was concerning. That's why they've advised me to take a step back.”
Dickenson, a two-time Grey Cup champion, said he isn't sure what prompted the symptoms, but did suggest that prior concussions played a role in his decision to stop playing.
“We watched the film, and there's nothing that should have brought (the symptoms) on,” said Dickenson. “But I know what's going on. Sometimes your body just doesn't co-operate, and this time for me it didn't.”
Dickenson wouldn't go into detail on his playing future, saying he would focus first on remaining with the team for the remainder of this season
“I've been pretty much in a coaching role for the first 8 1/2 games anyway,” said Dickenson. “I plan on still trying to make an impact, be a part of the team. The coaches are on board with that as well.”
Dickenson joined the Stampeders as a free agent Jan. 31 following five seasons with the Lions. Dickenson won a Grey Cup with B.C., in 2006, and was named MVP of the championship game.
The five-foot-11, 190-pound quarterback spent his first four seasons with the Stampeders, winning a Grey Cup title in 1998 and earning CFL most oustanding player honours in 2000.
Dickenson left the CFL following the 2000 season and spent the next two seasons in the NFL, where he spent time as a backup for the San Diego Chargers, Seattle Seahawks, Miami Dolphins and Detroit Lions.
The Stampeders signed quarterback Ben Sankey to take Dickenson's place on the roster.
