The organization chart is not quite complete with the Montreal Alouettes. In fact, says the head coach, several positions will be up for grabs during the team’s last preseason game against the Ottawa Redblacks on Friday at Percival-Molson Stadium.
“There are races everywhere,” Khari Jones explained to The Canadian Press from Trois-Rivières, where the team is completing its training camp this week.
“That’s especially true with our defensive backs and linebackers,” he continued. We lost a few elements during the winter, and I can’t wait to finalize my training at this level. »
This will be an opportunity for newcomer Tyrell Richards, first choice of the last CFL draft, to assert himself. Injured during the second week of camp, the linebacker who is also used as a defensive end could not participate in the first preseason game, lost 25-23 last Saturday at the hands of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
Jones explained earlier this week that the injury has set Richards back a bit behind other candidates. This preparatory match could allow him to gain valuable points. But it is already guaranteed to start the season within the formation.
In the worst-case scenario, he will start the campaign in special units, where he excels. He was also named the Syracuse Orangemen’s most valuable special teams player in his last university season in the United States.
Adams number 1
One position there is currently no running for is No. 1 quarterback. Adams Jr. is Jones’ right-hand man.
“There is absolutely no doubt, and Trevor’s presence here is not because we had any question marks about Vernon,” Jones said.
Adams should start Friday’s game and get some offensive series.
“I want to see the Vernon Adams I saw in practice. He had a great camp, noted Jones, who is also the Montreal football club’s offensive coordinator. That said, we never have enough quality quarterbacks in an organization and it’s good to see them, Trevor, Anthony Calvillo (the quarterbacks coach) and him working together. I believe that the chemistry that has developed between the three men will be beneficial for us. »