The Calgary Stampeders are entering do-or-die territory in their clash with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, but will have to do it without their most reliable offensive lineman.
Centre Sean McEwen (foot) has been placed on the one-game injured list and will miss the pivotal matchup. The seven-year CFL veteran has started 107 games with the Stampeders and Toronto Argonauts, earning CFL all-star honours three times. He will be replaced by rookie Rodeem Brown, who is making his first career start.
The team will get reinforcements elsewhere up front, as left tackle D’Antne Demery returns to the lineup. He will bump Brandon Weldon back to the practice roster.
Defensively, the team will be boosted by the return of all-star cornerback Tre Roberson and versatile linebacker Darius Williams. Middle linebacker Silas Stewart will see the field for the first time in 2023 after recovering from a foot injury, hoping to build off a 2022 campaign that saw him collect 35 defensive tackles, 20 more on special teams, a sack and a forced fumble.
Backup Canadian safety Malcolm Thompson will also draw into the lineup for the first time, while first-round receiver Cole Tucker returns from injury.
Making way for the additions, cornerback Julian Charles (knee), defensive end Alex Tchangam (hamstring), and defensive lineman Elliott Graham have all been placed on the six-game injured list. Receiver Rysen John and linebacker Perry Young have both returned to the practice roster.
The Stampeders (4-10) will visit the Ticats (6-8) on Saturday, September 30 at 7:00 p.m. EDT. It is the first and only meeting between the two teams this season.
