Watkins Expected to Return for Simi Valley This Week

Senior quarterback Jeremie Watkins, sidelined for three weeks because of a hairline fracture of his left ankle, is expected to play Friday night for Simi Valley High, Coach Roger McCamy said Tuesday.

“We’re not certain, but we think we’ll have him back,” McCamy said. “Right now, things look good.”

Watkins, 16, has been cleared by doctors to participate in non-contact drills. Doctors have not yet authorized him to play this week in a Marmonte League game against Thousand Oaks, but Watkins, who is still undergoing therapy, said he expects to play.

“I’m pretty sure (the doctors) are going to say it’s OK in the next few days,” Watkins said. “(The ankle) is still a little sore but it feels a lot better.”

Watkins suffered the injury late in the second quarter of the Pioneers’ 17-10 league victory over Royal.

At the time of his injury, Watkins was fourth in the state in passing. He has completed 54% of his passes for 1,174 yards and 12 touchdowns with seven interceptions.

Junior Tim Bennett, Watkins’ backup, has thrown for 502 yards with two touchdowns and five interceptions to help keep the Pioneers (4-4, 2-3 in league play) in playoff contention.

McCamy said Watkins’ return should give the Pioneers a boost.

“We’re eagerly anticipating his return,” McCamy said. “I don’t call him ‘The Franchise’ to be glib.”