The Calgary Stampeders announced on Sunday that quarterback Drew Tate has elected to undergo surgery on his left (non-throwing) shoulder. Tate dislocated the shoulder during a game against the Toronto Argonauts on July 7.
The surgery will take place as soon as possible and will be performed by Dr. James Stewart, the Stampeders’ orthopedic surgeon. Tate’s recovery time will be approximately four months and it’s expected that he will miss the rest of the 2012 CFL season.
“Drew stopped by my office this morning and told me about his decision to have his shoulder operated on,” said John Hufnagel, head coach and general manager of the Stampeders. “We are here to support Drew in his recovery and look forward to having him back on the football field in four months. Obviously, we will do everything we can to help Drew in his road to recovery.”
Tate dislocated the shoulder in the first quarter of the Stamps’ 39-36 loss to Toronto in Week 2. It was the second time he has injured his left shoulder as it was originally dislocated during a pre-season game prior to the 2011 regular season.
“The Stampeders gave me all the necessary information and I had to make a difficult decision,” said Tate. “I believe this is the best decision to help me reach my goal of having a long, successful career in this league. I’m disappointed but I’m going to work hard to come back stronger and better than ever.”