The Toronto Argonauts will be swapping out defensive all-stars for their matchup with the Calgary Stampeders.
Sunday will mark the return of defensive end Folarin Orimolade following a six-week absence, but it will also see linebacker Wynton McManis (groin) placed on the six-game injured list. Both were named all-stars last season and are the highest-paid players at their respective positions.
Through seven games this year, McManis had recorded 33 defensive tackles, two special teams tackles, a sack, an interception, and a defensive touchdown. In 37 games since joining Toronto in 2022, he has amassed 200 defensive tackles, 10 special teams tackles, eight sacks, seven interceptions, a forced fumble, and three majors.
Jonathan Jones, who has four defensive tackles and four special teams tackles this season, will start in the middle of the defence. Canadian Fraser Sopik will continue to play weakside linebacker.
Orimolade will provide the defence a boost by making his first appearance since Week 1, a game in which he recorded three tackles and a sack. The 28-year-old had a breakout campaign in 2023, his first with the Argos, posting 36 tackles, 10 sacks, and two forced fumbles in 17 contests.
Missing from the pass rush rotation this week will be Global defensive end Thiadric Hansen (hip), who will also head to the six-game injured list. Through seven games, the German native has notched two defensive tackles, seven special teams tackles, and a sack. Canadian defensive back Kerfalla Exume will fill the gap on special teams.
Quarterback Cameron Dukes is still listed as the team’s starter after being pulled in each of the last three games, though backup Nick Arbuckle is expected to rotate in.
The Toronto Argonauts (4-3) will visit the Calgary Stampeders (3-4) on Sunday, August 4 at 7:00 p.m. EDT.
