Ismail Needs Second Opinion, May Miss Opener

Raghib (Rocket) Ismail’s status for his first pro football game is in jeopardy after a visit to a Los Angeles doctor about his injured left leg.

Ismail, the $18-million speedster who signed with the CFL’s Toronto Argonauts instead of playing in the NFL, won’t return to Toronto until Tuesday night. The delay means it’s unlikely the wide receiver-kick returner from Notre Dame will make the season opener in Ottawa on Thursday.

Ismail has not practiced in three weeks, nursing the strained left quadricep that kept him out of Toronto’s exhibition games.

“It was Rocket who wanted to come here to Los Angeles,” Argonaut owner Bruce McNall said in the statement. “He is very frustrated and upset with the injury that has prevented him from participating in the two preseason games. Because of that, it was his suggestion that he obtain a second opinion to expedite a healthy return to the football field.”

The statement was issued after two Toronto newspapers reported Sunday a growing disenchantment with the high-salaried rookie among other players. Sources close to the Argonauts say the Toronto coach was upset by Ismail’s absence and feels that the receiver’s place is with the team.