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From the lineup the Redblacks fielded in their 39-33 overtime win over the Calgary Stampeders last November, four starting defenders (Abdul Kanneh, Mitchell White, Damaso Munoz and Forrest Hightower) are gone.
Five offensive starters (Henry Burris, J’Michael Deane, Ernest Jackson, Kienan Lafrance and Khalil Paden) are also no longer with the team; and the same goes for kick returner Jamill Smith. Star receiver Chris Williams, who sat out the Grey Cup because of a season-ending knee injury, will also be wearing a different uniform this season — that of the B.C. Lions.
Comparing what the Redblacks have to the start of the 2016 season, they’re minus six starters on each of offence and defence, along with long snapper Kevin Malcolm and kicker Chris Milo. ...
With Williams and Jackson gone, there will be a huge battle at the receiver position. The Redblacks have brought in free agents Kenny Shaw, Diontae Spencer and Tori Gurley to compete for spots alongside 1,000-yard pass catchers Greg Ellingson and Brad Sinopoli. Juron Criner also looked strong when given an opportunity last year.
Added to the mix are some talented rookie receivers.
With Kanneh (Hamilton), Jeff Richards (NFL, Carolina), Hightower (Edmonton) and White (NFL, Philadelphia) all gone, there will be a battle for positions in the defensive backfield. Jerrell Gavins played at a high level before he was moved to SAM linebacker so there’s always the chance he could switch back.
Running back is another interesting battle with Mossis Madu Jr., William Powell and Shakir Bell among those in the mix to be the starter. Rookie Marion Grice is also competing for a spot.
“Grice is good,” said Campbell. “The other three have already proven they can play well. When you think about it, William Powell is here because of injuries we had … Chevon Walker and those guys. (Mossis) Madu is here because of injuries we had. This is probably the most depth we’ve had of proven running backs.”
With the retirement of Henry Burris, Trevor Harris comes into camp as the clear starter. Also in camp are former Calgary Stampeder Drew Tate, former NFLer Ryan Lindley and Brock Jensen, who played last season when both Burris and Harris were injured.
Harris is anxious to stand behind centre and utilize some of the offensive weapons. Training camp, for him, is where it all starts.