Roster Changes Ahead of Critical Matchup
In a week marked by significant roster adjustments, the Calgary Stampeders have been making headlines as they gear up for a crucial face-off against the BC Lions. The team recently parted ways with defensive lineman Byron Vaughns, who was signed just weeks earlier after a stint with the Montreal Alouettes. Vaughns managed to dress for only two games with the Stampeders, contributing one special teams tackle before his release. As the Stamps prepare for their upcoming game, these changes reflect the urgency they feel in enhancing their lineup.
The Stampeders are also welcoming new talent to their defensive front. Lorenzo Mauldin IV, a seasoned defensive lineman acquired from the Ottawa Redblacks, is set to debut for Calgary after being traded for a fourth-round pick in the 2026 CFL Draft. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 261 pounds, Mauldin is expected to bring a veteran presence and bolster the team's defensive capabilities. Head coach Dave Dickenson expressed optimism about Mauldin's ability to impact the game, emphasizing his skills in stopping the run and winning one-on-one matchups.
Key Players and Matchup Insights
As the Stampeders prepare to take on the Lions, who are currently just a half-game ahead in the West Division standings, both teams are in need of a victory to secure playoff positioning. The Stamps have struggled recently, suffering a tough 38-20 loss to the Montreal Alouettes, which has put them in a precarious spot as the season winds down. Dickenson noted the importance of capitalizing on close games, stating, “It’s October — we’ve got to start improving and then winning some of these close games.”
The return of linebacker Marquel Lee is another pivotal development for the Stampeders. Lee, who has been sidelined with a bicep injury, is expected to rejoin the starting lineup and provide much-needed support to the defense. His experience and performance early in the season, where he recorded 15 tackles, will be crucial as the Stampeders aim to apply pressure on the Lions’ offense.
As the teams prepare for their showdown, the Stampeders are looking to regain momentum and confidence, especially with quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. expressing concerns over his own performance amid the team’s struggles.
TL;DR
- Calgary Stampeders released defensive lineman Byron Vaughns after two games.
- Veteran DL Lorenzo Mauldin IV joins the team from the Ottawa Redblacks.
- The Stampeders face a crucial game against the BC Lions, needing a win to improve playoff positioning.
- Marquel Lee's return from injury boosts the Stampeders' defense ahead of the matchup.