Another day down during Winnipeg Blue Bombers training camp and here are today’s collection of notes, quotes and anecdotes…

3 THOUGHTS FROM DAY 4:

Popping off the page today was defensive back Ethan Ball, who first emerged last year after being selected in the CFL Canadian Draft and authored a solid rookie campaign.
He’s posted a few good days in a row, actually, and continues to make huge plays, including two interceptions on Wednesday.
“Like every second year guy, they come in and they just have more tools,” said head coach Mike O’Shea. “They have a better understanding of things. I would certainly think they’re all a little more relaxed because they have that better understanding. Ethan is one of the many of the second-year guys who are showing good improvement from last year to this year.”
Overheard several times today during OL vs. DL one-on-ones: ‘Korny is having a day.’ That’s DT Collin Kornelson of the University of Manitoba and, yes, he was noticeable.
Tim White has already been everything and then some for the Blue Bombers since Sunday’s first practice. He’s relentless in practice and already becoming a favourite target for Zach Collaros.

OUCH REPORT: O’Shea said he would have an update on LB Jovan Santos-Knox, injured on the first day of camp, in a ‘couple of days.’ Meanwhile, while DT Cameron Lawson and Tanner Schmekel did not practice on Wednesday, it was simply precautionary.

DEEP CUTS THE KNIFE: Released by the club on Wednesday:

-Defensive backs Michael Dixon, Jordan Taylor and Alijah McGhee
-Defensive lineman Eric Black
-Linebacker Aaron Smith
-Receiver Jahmal Banks
-Offensive linemen Joe More and Tariq Stewart

QUOTABLE: Cornerback Warren Burrell was getting a lot of work with the defensive starters on Wednesday.

“He can cover,” said O’Shea. “He’s a good football player and he seems to have a good understanding of the systems that are going in; he can take the classroom piece and bring it out on the field.

“Physically, with his attributes he can play that spot, and he seems to have a bit more knack at doing it.”

Deatrick Nichols

Asked by CJOB’s Derek Taylor about what it would be like to line up at corner on the same side as veteran Deatrick Nichols, O’Shea added:

“Easier than not. Deatrick has got great vision, anticipation. He’s a very, very good communicator. He understands everything we’re doing, and he’s got a tremendous feel for the game.

“Deatrick is a prideful guy. He wants to do well, and he wants his side to do well. It’s not about him doing well, it’s that side (of the defence). He wants the whole defence to do well but he doesn’t want stuff going on on his side, for sure.”