The Saskatchewan Roughriders won’t have to worry about the Edmonton Elks’ top pass rusher when they make the trip to Commonwealth Stadium on Saturday.
Defensive lineman Noah Curtis will not play in Week 15 due to an undisclosed non-football-related matter that caused him to miss all three practices. The second-year Canadian, who was drafted by the Elks in the fourth round of the 2023 CFL Draft, has had a breakout campaign to this point, notching 21 tackles and six sacks in 15 games.
Former first-round draft pick Daniel Joseph will get the start for ratio reasons, though veteran American defensive end AC Leonard is expected to see the bulk of the playing time. Boundary halfback Darius Bratton will return to the secondary after a one-week absence and send rookie Jalen Green back to the practice roster, with Canadian linebacker Olivier Muembi dressing for additional depth.
Running back and returner Javon Leake will also be back in action after recovering from a thigh injury but will back up rookie Justin Rankin. The CFL’s reigning Most Outstanding Special Team Player has blossomed into a rushing threat since taking on an increased offensive role, carrying 80 times for 506 yards and five touchdowns while adding 26 receptions for 191 more yards through the air.
Veteran running back Kevin Brown will be a healthy scratch as a result of the move. In 12 games this season, the former thousand-yard rusher has carried 101 times for 522 yards while adding 22 receptions for 138 more.
The Edmonton Elks (5-10) will host the Saskatchewan Roughriders (7-7-1) on Saturday, October 5 at 7:00 p.m. EDT.