The Edmonton Elks have activated versatile defender Mark McLaurin for Sunday’s game against the Ottawa Redblacks.
McLaurin has bounced on and off the active roster over his two seasons with the team, lining up at a multitude of positions. He recorded seven tackles and an interception in two games last season, adding 18 defensive tackles in five appearances in 2023.
The 26-year-old will fill in at strong-side linebacker with both Loucheiz Purifoy and Enock Makonzo still on the six-game injured list. The move allows Marloshawn Franklin Jr., who started there last week, to move back to his regular spot at safety.
Defensive tackle Daniel Ross, who returned to the team’s line-up last week, has been placed on the six-game injured list with an elbow issue, making room for the move.
The rest of the Elks’ roster remains unchanged, save for the return of offensive lineman Josiah St-John. He will assume the role of sixth o-lineman, making rookie Phil Grohovac a healthy scratch.
Linebacker Woodly Appolon will also be a healthy scratch, while 10 other players remain out long-term with injuries. That list includes linebackers Wesly Appolon, Luke Burton-Krahn, and Eli Mencer; defensive linemen Elliott Brown and J-Min Pelley; defensive back Aaron Grymes, and offensive lineman Samuel Thomassin.
The Elks (1-9) will host the Redblacks (3-7) on Sunday, August 27 at 7:00 p.m. EDT. The two teams met previously in Week 4, with Ottawa capturing a 26-7 victory.
