QB Dru Brown to start amid flood of reinforcements for Redblacks

Photo courtesy: Scott Grant/CFLPhotoArchive.com

The Ottawa Redblacks are finally getting some good news on the injury front with five key players making their return for a pivotal matchup with the Toronto Argonauts, including quarterback Dru Brown.

The 27-year-old signal-caller has missed the last two games due to an ankle issue, with veteran backup Jeremiah Masoli struggling in relief. Brown has thrown for 3,114 yards, 11 touchdowns, and eight interceptions this season, posting a 7-5-1 record as a starter.

The native of Palo Alto, Cal. will have some of his top weapons back alongside him as the team tries to claw back second in the East. Star receiver Justin Hardy is back after sitting out last week with an ankle injury. The 32-year-old remains second in the CFL with 90 receptions for 1,241 yards and four touchdowns. Veteran pass catcher Bralon Addison will also return in a rotational role, while Andre Miller and Daniel Oladejo have been bumped to the practice roster.

Along the offensive line, American Drake Centers will slot in at left tackle and bump Canadian Jacob Ruby into a backup role. Former first-overall pick Dontae Bull will once again be a healthy scratch.

The most impactful returnee may be on defence, where middle linebacker Jovan Santos-Knox is back after a six-game stint on the injured list. The seven-year veteran has recorded 53 defensive tackles, two sacks, and an interception in 10 games this year. Silas Stewart will be a healthy scratch to make room.

Rounding out the moves are the additions of Canadian linebacker Lucas Cormier and safety Yani Gouadfel in depth roles. American defensive backs Adrian Frye and Tobias Harris were both moved to the practice roster.

The Redblacks (8-7-1) will visit the Argonauts (9-7) on Saturday, Oct. 19 with kickoff slated for 3:00 p.m. EDT.

Graphic courtesy: Ottawa Redblacks