Ottawa Redblacks quarterback Jeremiah Masoli is set to make his first start in over a year on Thursday against the Calgary Stampeders at McMahon Stadium.
Masoli joined the Redblacks in 2022 with expectations of becoming the starting quarterback and a key figure in the franchise. However, he has faced significant setbacks, suffering season-ending injuries to his leg and Achilles tendon, which have limited him to only 136 passing attempts across three seasons.
The 35-year-old is stepping in for starter Dru Brown, who sustained a leg injury during a Week 10 tie with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Although head coach Bob Dyce indicated that Brown’s injury is not serious, he will not be available for the game in Calgary.
Reflecting on his recovery journey, Masoli expressed gratitude for the support he received, stating, “I knew there was light at the end of the tunnel, but…nobody wants to go through that kind of stuff.”
Having played college football at Oregon and Mississippi, Masoli built his CFL career with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats over eight seasons, earning a reputation as a selfless team player. He acknowledged the overwhelming support from the Canadian football community during his time away from the game.
Teammate Jaelon Acklin, who played alongside Masoli in Hamilton, expressed excitement for Masoli’s return, emphasizing the positive impact he has had on younger players in the Redblacks’ locker room.
Masoli has been instrumental in mentoring the team’s young receivers, sharing insights on reading defenses and route running, which have proven beneficial for a Redblacks team currently positioned second in the East Division with a record of 5-2-1.
General manager Shawn Burke, who has a long-standing relationship with Masoli from their time in Hamilton, highlighted Masoli’s leadership qualities as a key reason for bringing him to Ottawa. Masoli restructured his contract last offseason to remain with the team after limited playing time in his first two years.
As he prepares for his return, Masoli expressed a renewed appreciation for the CFL, stating, “To have it ripped from you two years in a row, you just grow a love for it that much more.” He anticipates a mix of emotions when he takes the field on Thursday, acknowledging the hard work that has brought him back.
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