Ottawa Redblacks’ DE Lorenzo Mauldin IV named game-time decision vs. Stampeders

Photo: Bob Butrym/3DownNation. All rights reserved.

The Ottawa Redblacks may have narrowly avoided disaster ahead of their matchup with the Calgary Stampeders on Sunday, as defensive end Lorenzo Mauldin IV remains in the lineup as a game-time decision despite a scary practice injury.

The 30-year-old pass rusher went down with an apparent foot injury during practice on Thursday and had to be carted off the field, with onlookers fearing the worst. He was able to return in a limited capacity on Friday and is reportedly trending towards being able to play.

A former third-round pick of the New York Jets, Mauldin spent two seasons with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in a primarily rotational role before breaking out with Ottawa in 2022. He recorded 41 defensive tackles and led the CFL with 16 sacks, taking home the league’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player award in the process.

In five games this season, Mauldin has collected 10 defensive tackles and four sacks.

While Mauldin may be on the field, the Redblacks will endure some other changes to the defensive line. Global defensive tackle Blessman Ta’ala (calf) has been added to the six-game injured list, and will be replaced by Austrian Thomas Schaffer. Rookie Canadian defensive end Aidan John will also draw into the lineup, filling the special teams void left by placing linebacker Gary Johnson Jr. (knee) on the one-game injured list.

Offensively, receiver Savon Scarver has been demoted to the practice roster after recording seven receptions for 69 yards in five games. Raphael Leonard will get his first start at field-side wide-out, having played five games for Edmonton in 2022 primarily on the defensive side of the ball.

Canadian running back Jackson Bennett (head) has been placed on the one-game injured list. American De’Montre Tuggle will draw back into the lineup to provide support for Devonte Williams after a one-game absence, having rushed for 176 yards and a touchdown in three starts earlier this year.

The Redblacks (2-3) will visit the Stampeders (2-3) on Sunday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m. EDT. They are currently point underdogs.

Photo courtesy: Ottawa Redblacks