A new member of the Edmonton Elks will be changing his number before CFL training camps get underway on July 10.
Linebacker Kevin Brown II won’t wear No. 31 this season out of respect for retired fullback Calvin McCarty, he tweeted on Wednesday. The 27-year-old signed with Edmonton as a free agent in February.
I appreciate that brother, But the show must go on! It’s still BONEand the end game has never changed… all the best #Respect #3one, tweeted McCarty in response.
Brown II spent three seasons wearing No. 31 with the Ottawa Redblacks and recorded 112 defensive tackles, 37 special teams tackles, three sacks, two interceptions, and one forced fumble in 42 career games. He started ten games at weak-side linebacker in 2019 and will look to earn the same starting spot with Edmonton.
McCarty played 13 seasons for the Elks before announcing his retirement in March. He rushed for 1,615 yards on 337 career attempts, made 263 receptions for 2,005 yards, and scored 30 touchdowns. He also made 85 career special teams tackles, which is a testament to his versatility and athleticism from the fullback position.
The 36-year-old resides in Edmonton with his wife and daughter and now serves as a coach with the Bellerose Bulldogs of Bellerose Composite High School.