Bombers head coach Paul LaPolice yells at Terence Jeffers-Harris after being penalized for showboating in a 2010 CFL game. CP/John Woods

In a twist with espionage-like qualities, CFL receiver Terence Jeffer-Harris, dumped by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Thursday, has been signed by the rival Hamilton Tiger-Cats on the cusp of the Eastern Final.

The Ti-Cats signed Jeffers-Harris just two days before the clubs go head-to-head in the CFL's Eastern Conference final.

Former Bomber Milt Stegall says it's a spy game move as Jeffers-Harris could cough up inside information on the Bombers plans for Sunday's game after being signed to a practice agreement with the Tabbies.

"They've flown him in, they put him on the practice roster, it's not costing them much to find out what he does know," Stegall noted. "And you know, Terence may be looking to get revenge on his old team to say this is what they're gonna do, I think they'll do this, you just never know."

Ironically, Jeffers-Harris ended up with the Bombers in 2010 after running through a workout with Stegall in Atlanta.

Reaction among diehard fans on Blue Bomber's fan website Ourbombers.com was mixed as to what damage, if any, Jeffers-Harris might do, now that he is in Hamilton's nest. Some suggested the Bombers anticipated Hamilton might sign the disgruntled player and that the Ti-Cats are playing right into Winnipeg's hands. Others worried the Tabbies might pick-up valuable information about Winnipeg's blocking schemes.

The 23-year-old scored six touchdowns and caught 77 passes for 894 yards in his two injury-marred seasons with the Bombers.

Coach Paul Lapolice said the club parted ways with the receiver after repeated violations of club rules. Various media sources said that after his playing time was reduced Jeffers-Harris was continually late for practice.

"It became evident throughout the course of the season that T.J. was struggling with his position with the team," said Bombers GM Joe Mack.

"With our club preparing for this crucial game Sunday, it became clearer that he was having difficulty coming to terms with the challenges of limited playing time, therefore, this difficult decision was made," Mack said.