Edmonton Elks rule out David Beard, Jordan Williams against B.C. Lions

Photo courtesy: Edmonton Elks.

The Edmonton Elks have ruled out Canadian offensive lineman David Beard and American defensive lineman Jordan Williams for Friday’s game against the B.C. Lions. The team issued an updated injury report on Wednesday.

Beard is dealing with a calf injury, which occurred during the team’s recent win over the Ottawa Redblacks. The six-foot-five, 320-pound native of Sherwood Park, Alta. has played 147 career regular-season CFL games as a member of the Elks and Hamilton Tiger-Cats, earning an All-CFL selection in 2024.

The 33-year-old was replaced at centre by veteran Mark Korte, who has played 125 career regular-season games as a member of the Redblacks and Elks.

Williams suffered an injury to his arm this past week and was spotted on the sideline wearing a sling. The 27-year-old started each of the team’s first five regular-season games, recording four defensive tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble.

The six-foot-five, 285-pound defender joined the Elks last season after he was released by the Toronto Argonauts. Over 21 career regular-season CFL games, he has made 29 defensive tackles, three sacks, one forced fumble, and one touchdown.

Edmonton head coach Mark Kilam didn’t provide any details regarding the injuries, though Jason Gregor reported that Beard will be out “a few weeks,” while Williams will miss “likely 10 to 12 weeks.”

The Elks have also ruled out Canadian offensive lineman Brett Boyko (hand), Global linebacker Tyron Vrede (knee), and Canadian defensive back Royce Metchie (Achilles).

American receiver Joe Robustelli (hamstring) is doubtful, though Kilam indicated on Wednesday that he will not be available after suffering a setback. Canadian linebacker Justin Pace (foot) is questionable.

The Edmonton Elks (4-1) will host the B.C. Lions (1-3) at Commonwealth Stadium on Friday, July 17 with kickoff scheduled for 9:00 p.m. EDT. The Lions are coming off a bye week, while the Elks dominated the Ottawa Redblacks in a 40-17 win at home.

The weather forecast in Edmonton calls for a high of 29 degrees and sun. The game will be broadcast on TSN and RDS2 in Canada and CFL+ internationally. Radio listeners can tune in on 730 CKNW (English) or Sher-E-Punjab Radio AM 600 (Punjabi) in Vancouver or 880 CHED in Edmonton.