Jesse Briggs, who retired from the CFL this past off-season, has been hired as the linebackers coach at McGill University.
The 34-year-old played 134 career regular season CFL games as a member of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, recording 51 defensive tackles, 76 special teams tackles, and four fumble recoveries. The six-foot-one, 215-pound defender appeared in four Grey Cups with the team, winning in 2019 and 2021.
The native of Kelowna, B.C. was a second-round pick in the 2014 CFL Draft out of McGill University. In 35 career U Sports games, he recorded 118 total tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, six sacks, two interceptions, five pass knockdowns, and one forced fumble. He was named the team’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player in 2013.
Other newcomers to McGill’s coaching staff include former CFL kicker Christopher Milo, who will coach the kickers), and former third-round CFL draft pick Yannick Morin-Plante, who will coach special teams, running backs, and strength and conditioning.
The Redbirds hired Alex Surprenant as their new head football coach this past off-season, replacing Ron Hilaire following a 10-year run with the program. Surprenant spent the past four seasons as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Concordia University.
Those who have returned to the staff include offensive line coach Marc Glaude, defensive line coach Khaalid Hicks, and video coordinator and equipment manager Daves Dufresne.
McGill finished at the bottom of the RSEQ standings this past season with a record of 1-7. The team will open its regular season on Friday, Aug. 30 against the reigning Vanier Cup champion Université de Montréal Carabins.
