The Toronto Argonauts will be getting an unexpected boost to their receiving corps this week after all-star DaVaris Daniels was pulled off the six-game injured list early.
The 31-year-old made two catches for 27 yards in the club’s season-opening win over the B.C. Lions but was absent last week with a groin injury that was believed to be long-term. That changed after just one game out of the lineup as he returns after practicing fully this week.
Daniels 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. He is listed as a backup behind Makai Polk but will serve as the team’s designated nationalized American, able to substitute in for Canadian starter Tommy Nield for up to 25 plays in the game.
Nield draws into the starting lineup after fellow Canadian receiver Dejon Brissett (knee) was placed on the six-game injured list. The 27-year-old had caught five passes for 72 yards and a touchdown through two games.
Defensively, this game marks the return of American Jonathan Jones at weakside linebacker after he missed last week with a thigh injury. Replacement Marquis Waters has been returned to the practice roster, as have backup strongside linebacker Darius Joiner and defensive tackle Ralph Holley. American DT Jordan Williams has been promoted to start alongside Jared Brinkman in the interior.
Newly signed veteran offensive tackle Landon Rice will make his Argos debut as the sixth man up front, replacing Darius Ciraco (hip) who is headed to the six-game. Fullback Brandon Calver will also draw into the lineup.
The Toronto Argonauts (2-0) will host the Montreal Alouettes (3-0) on Friday, June 28 with kickoff slated for 7:30 p.m. EDT.
