Breaking news: Jamal Peters taken to hospital after frightening head blow sees Tiger-Cats DB stretchered off

Hamilton Tiger-Cats defensive back Jamal Peters was stretchered off the field during Thursday’s clash with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers after suffering a suspected head or neck injury.

The incident occurred midway through the first quarter when Peters made a tackle on Winnipeg receiver Tommy Nield following a 16-yard gain. He remained motionless on the turf afterward, prompting immediate concern from players on both sides. Replay footage suggested Nield’s knee made contact with the top of Peters’ helmet as he went airborne during the play.

Medical staff from both teams quickly responded, stabilising Peters’ head and neck before placing him on a spineboard and stretcher. Teammates gathered around as the 29-year-old was carefully removed from the field, with early signs indicating he had movement in his extremities. The club later confirmed he was conscious and in good spirits before being taken to hospital for further assessment. He was subsequently released later that night after being cleared of a spinal injury.

Peters has been one of Hamilton’s standout defensive players in recent years. The six-foot-two, 220-pound defensive back was named All-CFL in 2025 after registering 50 defensive tackles and six interceptions across the regular season, following another strong campaign in 2024 when he earned All-East Division honours after joining the team as a free agent.

His CFL career began with the Toronto Argonauts in 2021, where he quickly emerged as a key contributor and went on to win a Grey Cup the following season. Across 67 career regular-season games, Peters has compiled 211 defensive tackles and 21 interceptions, establishing himself as one of the league’s most productive defensive backs.

Despite the worrying scenes involving Peters, Hamilton went on to secure a 37-27 victory over Winnipeg, earning their first win of the season.