Weston Dressler looks for fresh start with Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Wearing a Blue Bomber shirt at a snow-covered Investors Group Field, Weston Dressler answered questions from the media for the first time since he signed a contract with the team.

The former star of the Saskatchewan Roughriders describes this as a new opportunity, one he is excited about.

“It kind of is like a fresh start, you can look at it that way,” explained Dressler on a conference call Wednesday. “I look at it as a new opportunity in a new spot.”

.@WestonDressler7 met the Wpg media for the 1st time today, watch the full press conference. https://t.co/4Qtx3WE3WY pic.twitter.com/aXufAjg7Lk

— Blue Bombers (@Wpg_BlueBombers) January 27, 2016

The native of Bismark, North Dakota spent eight seasons with the Riders collecting 7, 797 yards on 539 receptions and 50 touchdowns. Dressler and veteran defensive-end John Chick were released by the Riders on Jan. 14.

Dressler described what the last two weeks have been like.

“It’s been interesting, long, more mentally challenging than anything.”

Dressler said he took some time to figure out what he wanted to do with his life, go over the offers he was provided, and make a decision from there. He added his conversations with the Bombers brass convinced him Winnipeg is the best spot for him.

There will be some familiarity for Dressler as former Rider offensive coordinator, Paul LaPolice, signed on as the Bombers new offensive coordinator this offseason.

“With coach [LaPolice] and his offence, you know, I’m very familiar with that and having worked with him in the past I think I’ll be able to help out with the insulation of the offence and help guys understand it and I think we can become a very good offence with the pieces we have now and the pieces that will fall in place throughout free agency.”

As for how long the 30-year-old will wear a blue and gold jersey, TSN’s Gary Lawless reported Tuesday Dressler signed a two-year contract worth close to $170,000 per year.

“Obviously a lot of history between these two teams (Riders and Bombers) and being with the Riders for eight years you never think of the day you put on a Bombers shirt, but you know what, this is the opportunity that’s in front of me, I’m looking to make the most of it and I’m excited to be here.”

One can imagine that Dressler will receive a warm welcome from the Rider faithful during the Labour Day Classic, and Green Zone host Jamie Nye asked him if he has thought about that experience.

“It’s crossed my mind for sure but, you know, I think worry about that when the day comes.”

The 2016 schedule has not been released yet.