Jaylon Hutchings, Folarin Orimolade cleared to play for Calgary Stampeders

Photo: Christian Bender/CFL

It appears the Calgary Stampeders could have defensive stalwarts Jaylon Hutchings and Folarin Orimolade in the lineup when they host the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Friday.

Hutchings signed a three-year contract with the team on Sunday, rejoining the squad on which he was named All-CFL in 2025. The six-foot, 304-pound defender signed with the Minnesota Vikings in January but was waived in April with an injury designation. He remained a free agent until he signed back with the Stampeders.

“We did want to make sure when (Hutchings) got here that he was ready to go,” head coach and general manager Dave Dickenson told the media in Calgary. “We took it easy on him (during practice on Monday) but hopefully he can ramp it up (in practice on Tuesday). He’s cleared, though, so when he’s ready to play, I’ll play him.”

Hutchings was dominant last season, recording 39 defensive tackles, eight sacks, and one forced fumble from his spot along the interior. Though Dickenson is clearly thrilled to have him back, he also wishes the Texas Tech product had gotten a better shot at the NFL.

“I’m somewhat disappointed for him, to be completely honest, but he has the right attitude. He’s excited to be back,” he said. “(Hutchings) is a difference-maker — ask people around the league — and for him to commit for three years, I think shows a lot.”

Dickenson also had a positive update on Folarin Orimolade, who suffered a torn Achilles in September.

“(Orimolade’s) also cleared, yes. I thought he looked great,” said Dickenson. “I’ve been ready to activate him for a couple of weeks now. He’s just flying around. I will be smart but if they’re good to go, they’re playing.”

The 30-year-old made 19 defensive tackles and four sacks over 12 regular-season games in 2025, his first season back in Calgary since he was reacquired via trade. He’s the CFL’s fifth-highest-paid defensive lineman.

Dickenson’s update on three-time All-CFL receiver Reggie Begelton wasn’t as positive, saying it’s “taking a little longer” for him to recover. The 32-year-old suffered a fractured leg against the Toronto Argonauts on June 14, 2025, ending his season in Week 2.

The veteran coach also indicated that he expects veteran kicker Rene Paredes to play this week after being a limited participant during training camp.

Paredes was selected as one of Calgary’s three team captains for 2026, joining quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. (offence) and strong-side linebacker Derrick Moncrief (defence).

The Calgary Stampeders (0-0) will host the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (0-0) at McMahon Stadium on Friday, June 5 with kickoff scheduled for 9:00 p.m. EDT. The Blue Bombers are coming off an East Semi-Final loss to the Montreal Alouettes, while the Stampeders lost last year’s West Semi-Final to the B.C. Lions.

The weather forecast in Calgary calls for a high of 20 degrees and a mix of sun and cloud. The game will be broadcast on TSN in Canada, CBS Sports Network in the United States, and CFL+ internationally. Radio listeners can tune-in on 680 CJOB in Winnipeg and 770 CHQR in Calgary.