The Toronto Argonauts could be without a star on each side of the ball for the foreseeable future, as defensive end Folarin Orimolade and receiver DaVaris Daniels have both been placed on the six-game injured list ahead of Saturday’s matchup with Edmonton.
Orimolade (ankle) made three tackles and one sack against B.C. from his spot at defensive end. The five-foot-eleven, 238-pound native of Washington, D.C. made 36 tackles, 10 sacks, and two forced fumbles over 17 games last season and was named an East Division all-star for the first time in his career. He is the highest-paid defensive lineman in the CFL.
Newcomer Derek Parish will bump up into the starting role in the meantime, though all-star offseason acquisition Jake Ceresna could see increased playing time off the edge as the team’s designated nationalized American. Ralph Holley will get his first start at defensive tackle with Jordan Williams moving to the practice roster, while Canadian Deionte Knight will replace the recently released Benoit Marion as depth.
Daniels (groin) made two catches for 27 yards in the club’s season-opening win over the B.C. Lions before last week’s bye. The two-time Grey Cup champion was named an East Division all-star last year after recording his first career 1,000-yard season, catching 52 passes for 1,009 yards.
Fortunately, fellow East Division all-star Damonte Coxie will return to the lineup after missing the opener with a hamstring issue. He caught 39 passes for 787 yards and five touchdowns last season.
The Boatmen will also have some turnover at linebacker, as starter Jonathan Jones (thigh) has been placed on the one-game injured list. All-star Wynton McManis will kick over to middle linebacker from his usual weakside spot, as rookie Marquis ‘Muddy’ Waters draws his first start at that position. Darius Joiner will enter the lineup for additional depth at strongside linebacker.
Canadian defensive back and special teams ace Kerfalla Exume (foot) rounds out the additions to the six-game injured list. Fullback Albert Awachie returns from a hand injury and will pick up the slack in the kicking game.
The Toronto Argonauts (1-0) will host the Edmonton Elks (0-2) on Saturday, June 22 with kickoff slated for 7:00 p.m. EDT.
