Running back Lumsden passes on Bombers

Jesse Lumsden won't be making his CFL return in a Winnipeg Blue Bombers uniform.

The Blue Bombers had been in discussions with the Canadian running back about a possible return to the league, but the Bombers said Thursday he has informed them he wants to pursue other options.

The free agent hasn't played since injuring his shoulder in the first game of the 2009 season with the Edmonton Eskimos — in a game against the Bombers.

The 3-7 Bombers aren't the only team interested in Lumsden. Calgary Stampeders coach and general manager John Hufnagel said earlier this week that he has also been talking to the running back.

With Joffrey Reynolds firmly entrenched as Calgary's starting running back and Canadian Jon Cornish having a breakout season, Lumsden would first have to work his way onto the Stamps' talent-laden roster.

Hufnagel says there could be a spot for Lumsden in early October when the practice roster opens up.

The Stamps have a league-best 9-1 record.

A former first-round draft pick of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, Lumsden was cut by the Eskimos after last season. While he hasn't played a CFL game since, Lumsden did compete in bobsled at the 2010 Winter Olympics.