SET TO STEP IN, STEP UP

Noonecouldargue that Trumaine Washington is lacking in confidence.

On Thursday night against the Ottawa Redblacks, the Argonauts cornerback will be more than happy to back up his words with his play.

“Like I tell everybody, I know I can be out there andmygameison another level,” said the 23-year-old CFL rookie. “I am feeling confident in my game and I know I can be out there with those guys. It has been a waiting game and I was just told to keep my head up and don’t be down on myself and keep preparing like I’m going to play. That’s what I have been doing and it all worked out.”

The spot in the secondary opened when the Argos traded T.J. Heath to Montreal last Sunday.

Argos head coach Marc Trestman was a little more comfortable making the trade with the idea that Washington could step in and not miss a beat.

“We all saw some of the explosiveness and playmaking ability that he had during the preseason,” Trestman said. “We expect him to go do a more-than-sufficient job. We think he is a guy who is around the ball and he has ability to make plays.

“Without a next man up to fill that void, it would have been a much more difficult decision (to trade Heath).”

In attempting to fill the hole left by Heath, a two-time CFL all-star, Washington is ready.

“It’s going to be tough and I have big expectations, but I am up for the challenge,” Washington said, “and I feel like I can maybe one day be one of those CFL all-stars.”