The Ottawa Redblacks are navigating a turbulent stretch as they gear up for their Week 16 clash against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. The team is facing increased scrutiny following the recent trade of defensive lineman Lorenzo Mauldin IV to the Calgary Stampeders. This decision has raised eyebrows, especially with the Redblacks still in playoff contention.
Mauldin, a standout performer, logged 26 defensive tackles and two sacks over 14 games in the current season. His trade, which garnered a fourth-round pick in the 2026 CFL Draft for Ottawa, has been perceived as a perplexing move by analysts and fans alike. The rationale behind the trade centers on Mauldin's impending free agency, leading the Redblacks to secure some value rather than risk losing him for nothing in the off-season.
Head coach Bob Dyce and defensive coordinator William Fields now face the daunting task of filling the void left by Mauldin as they prepare for a pivotal game against the Blue Bombers. The Redblacks are looking to redeem themselves after a narrow defeat in their previous matchup with Winnipeg, where a last-minute play sealed their fate.
As the team gets set for the 3:00 PM ET kickoff at TD Place, fans are hopeful that the return of quarterback Dru Brown, who recently recovered from a knee injury, will provide a much-needed boost. The Redblacks have been working to regain momentum and are determined to make a strong push as the season nears its conclusion.
In addition to the on-field challenges, the league itself is undergoing significant changes aimed at enhancing the fan experience and gameplay. The CFL has announced a series of modifications set to unfold over the next two seasons, including moving goalposts to the back of end zones, which is designed to encourage more scoring opportunities.
As the Redblacks prepare for their critical matchup, the organization is at a crossroads, balancing immediate competitive needs against long-term strategic decisions. The coming weeks will be crucial for Ottawa as they seek to solidify their playoff position while adapting to the new realities of their roster and the evolving landscape of the CFL.