The Ottawa Redblacks are facing game-time decisions on the status of two of their starting linebackers ahead of Friday’s clash with the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Middle linebacker Jovan Santos-Knox (ankle) and strongside linebacker Douglas Coleman III (illness) are both questionable for the game after the latter missed practice on Wednesday and the former was limited.
Santos-Knox has played in seven games this season after missing the start of the year with injury, collecting 42 defensive tackles and a sack. Coleman has been productive through 12 appearances, amassing 43 defensive tackles, four sacks, three interceptions and two defensive touchdowns. If either player were forced to sit out, it would require an activation off the practice roster.
Certain to miss this game is Canadian receiver Nate Behar (ankle), who has been placed on the one-game injured list. The 28-year-old, who has 39 receptions for 334 yards and a touchdown this season, will be replaced by American Siaosi Mariner.
Backup defensive lineman Deshawn Stevens (pectoral) has been placed on the six-game injured list, with rookie Aidan John drawing into the lineup. Offensive lineman Zack Pelehos will be a healthy scratch this week, trading off with Hunter Steward.
The most significant change for the team comes at kicker, where Lewis Ward has been lost for the season with a torn pectoral muscle. Former Hamilton Tiger-Cat Michael Domagala will handle the place-kicking duties in his Redblacks debut.
The Redblacks (3-10) will host the Riders (6-7) on Friday, September 22 at 7:00 p.m. EDT. The two clubs previously met in Week 9, with Saskatchewan holding on to a 26-24 victory.
