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Tag: Ottawa Redblacks

  • Surprise Sensation: Ex -Steelers RB Wows Everyone in CFL Opener

    Surprise Sensation: Ex -Steelers RB Wows Everyone in CFL Opener

    When Jaylen Samuels took the field for the Ottawa Redblacks this past weekend Surprise Sensation, many fans were curious—but not necessarily expecting fireworks. After all, it had been years since he last played meaningful football at a high level. Yet, in just one half of action, Samuels reminded everyone why he was once considered a promising talent coming out of NC State.

    A Long Road Back to the Game

    Before Saturday’s game, Samuels hadn’t played in a competitive professional contest since 2021. His NFL career—once full of promise—had stalled after short stints with teams like the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals. He even tried his luck in the XFL (now UFL), but didn’t make the final roster.

    But on Saturday, all that seemed behind him.

    A Debut to Remember

    In the Ottawa Redblacks’ 23-7 win over the Montreal Alouettes, Samuels made the most of his limited time. In just two drives, he:

    Caught three passes for 13 yards

    His first carry? A jaw-dropping 24-yard touchdown run that left defenders grasping at air. It wasn’t just flashy—it was effective. Coaches and fans alike noticed how quickly he adapted to the CFL style of play, and how smoothly he fit into the offense.

    More Than Just a Flash in the Pan

    What stood out most wasn’t just the stats—it was the way he moved. His cuts were sharp, his vision was clear, and he looked comfortable catching passes out of the backfield, something that could make him a dual threat in the league.

    Samuels, who signed with the Redblacks on April 28, seems determined to prove he still belongs on the field. And if Saturday was any indication, he might just have a future in Canada.

    From Steelers Backup to CFL Spotlight

    Back in Pittsburgh, Samuels was always seen as a versatile player. At NC State, he lined up everywhere—tight end, H-back, even as a kick returner. But in the NFL, he was mostly a backup, stuck behind bigger names like James Conner and later Benny Snell.

    Still, he showed flashes. In 2018, his rookie year, he rushed for over 250 yards and caught 26 passes. By 2019, though, the depth chart shifted again, and his opportunities began to shrink.

    Now, in a new league, he has a fresh chance to show what he can really do.

    What’s Next for Samuels?

    It’s only an exhibition game, but the buzz around Samuels is real. If he continues performing like this, there’s no reason he can’t lock down a starting role in Ottawa.

    For now, fans are excited—and rightly so. Sometimes, all a player needs is one moment to remind us why we fell in love with the game in the first place.

  • Why Did Former Griz White Leave for Ottawa? Inside His CFL Journey

    Why Did Former Griz White Leave for Ottawa? Inside His CFL Journey

    For Vancouver’s Keelan White, the journey from the University of Montana to the Canadian Football League (CFL) has been a dream, determination, and a little bit of destiny. After leading the Montana Grizzlies in receiving yards for two straight seasons, White was at the top of every CFL draft board. But why did he choose Ottawa and how did it all go down? Let’s get into the story of his departure from the Grizzlies and his new chapter with the Ottawa Redblacks.

    A Childhood Dream Realized

    Keelan White’s love for football started in his backyard as a kid where he would toss a CFL ball back and forth with his mom. Those early days planted the seed of a lifelong dream: to play professional football in the CFL.

    “As a kid I used to drag my mom out to the backyard and she would throw me a CFL ball back and forth. So now to have the opportunity to go to a CFL team and play, that’s pretty cool to me,” White said.

    That connection to the CFL made his selection by the Ottawa Redblacks even more special. For White, it wasn’t just about a career; it was about fulfilling a childhood dream.

    The Anticipation of Draft Day

    The days leading up to the draft were not calm for White. Despite being a top prospect, he was uncertain where or if he would be selected.

    “I was nervous, for sure,” White said. “I was going back and forth with my agent trying to figure out who likes me, where do you think I’m going. A lot of communication but also a lot of sitting around waiting for things to happen.”

    Scouts from every CFL team were at Montana’s Pro Day, so White was hopeful but nervous. As the draft approached, whispers started to surface that Ottawa was interested.

    Ottawa Emerges as the Perfect Fit

    White’s agent, who lives in Ottawa, was a big help in calming him down. On draft day morning, his agent told him:

    “You’re not going later than three. If you’re there, Ottawa is going to take you.”

    With friends and family at the Press Box in Missoula, White waited anxiously as Ottawa’s turn approached. When the commissioner announced the pick, White’s name popped up on the screen—a moment that left him speechless.

    “I had just texted my agent when I put my phone down and they said my name on the screen. I was super surprised, super shocked, but just happy to hear my name called, for sure,” White said.

    A few minutes later, the Ottawa GM and coaching staff called to confirm what he already knew: his CFL journey was starting in the nation’s capital.

    Gratitude for Montana and Looking Ahead

    White is stoked to be with the Ottawa Redblacks but is super grateful for his time at the University of Montana. The Grizzlies are his second home and he’s proud to represent the program at the national level.

    “I love to represent Montana. Montana’s basically my second home now. We had five or six guys from this last class in the pros. That’s a great look for Montana and to go so high in the CFL is good too,” White said.

    He’s even planning to go back to Missoula during his bye week to catch a game, he’s that loyal to the place that helped shape him into the player he is today.

    What’s Next for White in Ottawa?

    Now that White is in the pros with the Ottawa Redblacks, he’s ready to prove himself. He’s known for his speed, agility and reliability as a receiver and is expected to make an impact right away.

    Ottawa fans can look forward to seeing a player who brings talent and gratitude and determination to succeed. For White, this is more than just a career move it’s an opportunity to honor his roots and build a legacy in the CFL.

  • Queen’s University Welcomes Ottawa Redblacks for 2025 Training Camp

    Queen’s University Welcomes Ottawa Redblacks for 2025 Training Camp

    For the first time in franchise history the Ottawa Redblacks will hold their training camp outside of the nation’s capital. Instead of setting up shop in Ottawa they are partnering with Queen’s University to hold their entire 2025 training camp in Kingston, Ontario. Here’s everything you need to know about the move and what it means for the team and the fans.

    Why Kingston for Training Camp?

    It wasn’t an easy decision. According to sources, multiple factors went into the decision. One of them was other CFL teams have successfully had camp outside their home cities and generate buzz and grow their fan base. By bringing the Redblacks to Kingston, we hope to introduce the team to a new audience and get Kingston residents to travel to TD Place during the regular season.

    Kingston is a Football Town

    Kingston is already a football city, with strong programs at the minor, high school and U Sports levels. Home to the Queen’s Golden Gaels, the city has great facilities and accommodations for players and staff. Richardson Stadium, renovated in 2016 and the new Lang Pavilion provide top notch amenities, meeting rooms, hydrotherapy facilities and more.

    And it’s close to Ottawa, only a 2 hour drive, so it’s an ideal location. We can travel easy and still get a fresh environment to prepare for the season.

    What Fans Can Expect in Kingston?

    The Redblacks’ training camp will kick off on May 11 and run through the preseason. The team will only return to TD Place for their final preseason game against the Montreal Alouettes on Friday, May 30 . This means all practices leading up to the game will take place in Kingston, giving local fans a unique opportunity to see their favorite players up close.

    Facilities at Queen’s University

    Queen’s University offers top-notch facilities that rival those found in professional sports settings. Richardson Stadium provides a spacious and modern venue for on-field activities, while the Lang Pavilion ensures players and staff have access to everything they need for recovery and strategy sessions. These resources make Kingston a perfect fit for hosting a professional training camp.

    New Way to Engage R-Nation

    One of the goals of this is to grow R-Nation by engaging fans that may not normally get to CFL games. Kingston has a passionate sports community and we can introduce the team to new fans and build relationships.

    Boost for Local Football

    Hosting training camp in Kingston also highlights the city’s football culture. Local youth and high school players may get to attend practices, meet players or even participate in events organized by the team. Maybe we’ll develop the next generation of football talent in the region.

    When will Ottawa Fans see the Team at Home?

    For Ottawa fans that can’t get to Kingston, the first chance to see the team at home will be Sunday, June 1 when Bob Dyce’s team has its first regular season practice at TD Place. Until then, Kingston will be the temporary home for the team as we prepare for the 2025 season.