The Calgary Stampeders are making strategic moves as they gear up for a pivotal CFL West Division semi-final showdown [1]. While the Saskatchewan Roughriders ponder who to cheer for [3, 4], the Stampeders have been busy fortifying their roster, particularly on the offensive line [5, 6].
Steward Added to Practice Roster
The Stampeders have signed Canadian offensive lineman Hunter Steward to their practice roster [6, 7]. A Calgary native, the 33-year-old Steward brings a wealth of experience to the team, boasting 144 games in the CFL [6]. He has previously played for the BC Lions, Ottawa Redblacks, and Edmonton Elks [6]. In 2024, Steward participated in 16 regular-season games for the Elks [5]. Before joining the Stampeders, he had a brief stint on the Lions' practice roster earlier in the year [5, 7]. At 6-foot-6 and 315 pounds, Steward provides size and veteran presence [7].
Playoff Implications
The Stampeders recognize that they are a vastly different team with quarterback Alexander under center [1]. Alexander's performance will be crucial, especially considering the team's regular-season offensive statistics [1]. Calgary finished seventh in passing (254.6 yards per game) and eighth in both net yards (329.4) and rushing (85.9) [1]. They will face a tough Montreal defense featuring Isaac Adeyemi-Berglund, Darnell Sankey, and Tyrice Be [1]. Defensively, the Stampeders aim to play "complementary defense," from the front to the back end [9]. Seven Stampeders were named to the West Division all-CFL team [8, 9]. Meanwhile, the BC Lions have regrouped behind quarterback Nathan Rourke and improved their defense [3].
TL;DR
- The Calgary Stampeders signed veteran offensive lineman Hunter Steward to their practice roster, adding depth and experience.
- Quarterback Alexander's performance will be critical for the Stampeders' playoff success, given their offensive rankings.
- The Stampeders' defense aims for a cohesive, complementary performance in the upcoming semi-final game [9].
- Seven Calgary players earned West Division all-star honors [8, 9].