The Toronto Argonauts will be short-handed in the receiving corps for their rematch with the Montreal Alouettes on Friday.
Star Canadian pass catcher Kurleigh Gittens Jr. (hip) has been placed on the six-game injured list. The 25-year-old had a spectacular 2022 campaign that saw him catch 81 passes for 1,101 yards and five touchdowns en route to being named a CFL all-star for the first time in his career. He also earned the East Division nomination for Most Outstanding Canadian while leading the Double Blue in every major receiving category.
Gittens remains an impactful piece of the Argonauts’ offence, though his production has taken a step back this year. In 10 games, the Ottawa native has posted 35 receptions for 416 yards and one touchdown.
Also absent from the lineup will be American receiver Cam Phillips (groin), who has been placed on the one-game injured list. The 27-year-old has broken out in his third season in Toronto, catching 36 passes for 556 yards and a score.
Canadians Tommy Nield and Dejon Brissett will slide into the starting rotation this week in place of the injured duo while running back Deonta McMahon will dress for his first career game as a backup in the slot.
Defensively, halfback Robertson Daniel (ankle) has been moved to the six-game injured list after being hurt last week. The 31-year-old was in the midst of a career year, amassing 55 defensive tackles, two sacks and four interceptions in 11 games.
Rookie Mason Pierce will start in place of Daniel, after collecting six defensive tackles in two appearances as a backup. Canadian defensive back Jamie Harry will also dress for depth, while defensive end Thomas Costigan returns to the rotation after having been a healthy scratch the last several weeks.
The Argos (10-1) will visit the Alouettes (6-6) on Friday, September 15 at 7:00 p.m. EDT. The two teams met last week, with Toronto securing a decisive 39-10 victory.
