Winnipeg’s former middle and weak side linebacker is now a free agent on both sides of the border.

Ian Wild, who was one of the few bright spots on Winnipeg’s defence in 2013 and 2014, was released by the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday.

Wild, who was playing both safety and linebacker in training camp, hails from Pittsburgh and was said to be having a solid camp. His release was viewed by those who watch the team closely as the most surprising of the team’s 13 cuts.

Wild is free to sign anywhere in the CFL or NFL. Players in Wild’s situation usually take a while to see if any other NFL teams could use someone with his skill set.

Wild was stellar for the Blue and Gold over the last two seasons, making 142 tackles, 27 special teams tackles, four pass knockdowns, five forced fumbles, four sacks and six tackles for a loss in only 23 games. He also served as Winnipeg’s long snapper.

Another former CFLer who got his walking papers on Monday was defensive end Shawn Lemon, who was let go by the San Francisco 49ers. He had eight forced fumbles and 13 sacks for the Stampeders last season, and the Bombers, according to a source, gave his camp a call when the Steelers released him just before their training camp due to a minor injury.

Former Argonauts cornerback Jalil Carter and receiver John Chiles were let go in the last 48 hours by the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears, respectively.

CRASH LANDINGS

The Bombers have hit the midway point of the season with a 3-6 mark for the first time since 2009. They were also 3-6 in 2005 and 2004. All three times they missed the playoffs.

What should also be a concerning statistic for the Bombers is this: They haven’t had a winning record in the second half of the season since 2008, including their Grey Cup year of 2011. Starting in 2014 and going back to 2009, the Bombers have posted records of 1-8, 2-7, 4-5, 3-6, 2-7 and 4-5 over the last nine games.

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