The Calgary Stampeders' training camp is heating up, and all eyes are on the backup quarterback battle. Among the contenders, Josh Love stands out as the favorite to secure the position behind Vernon Adams Jr. This is a prime opportunity for Love, who has the edge over his competitors, Ben Woolridge and Jacolby Criswell, both of whom lack CFL experience.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the contrast in backgrounds and experiences these quarterbacks bring to the table. Love, despite being relatively new to the CFL, boasts an impressive professional career, including stints with NFL teams and a three-year run in the UFL. On the other hand, Woolridge and Criswell, though talented, are still finding their footing in the league.
From my perspective, Love's leadership and comfort in the huddle, as praised by head coach Dave Dickenson, are key indicators of his potential to excel in this role. His collegiate success and previous professional experience give him an advantage in understanding the nuances of the game at a high level. It's an exciting prospect to see how he translates that into the CFL.
The Stampeders' training camp is an intense period, and the battle for the backup position is a crucial aspect of the team's preparation. With the first preseason game against the Saskatchewan Roughriders just around the corner, the pressure is on for Love to prove his worth and secure the backup job. It's a high-stakes situation, and the team's performance in the upcoming games will be a true test of their readiness.
In addition to the quarterback battle, the Stampeders have made some key additions to their roster. The selection of linebacker Eric Rascoe in the 2026 CFL Draft and the signing of receiver Dejon Brissett, who had a career-high season with the Toronto Argonauts, are significant moves that strengthen the team's depth and talent. These additions, along with the experience of veterans like Micah Teitz, position the Stampeders well for the upcoming season.
As we look ahead to the Stampeders' first regular-season game against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, it's clear that the team is building momentum. The battle for the backup quarterback position is an intriguing subplot, and Love's performance will be a key factor in the team's success. With a strong roster and a determined coaching staff, the Stampeders are poised to make a strong showing in the 2026 season.
