The Edmonton Elks now have their president and general manager, but they still need to find a head coach.
Newly appointed (or re-appointed?) GM Ed Hervey has not set a specific timeline for hiring a permanent coach to replace Chris Jones, who was let go after five games last season. That said, interviews with top candidates are already in the works, and speculation has narrowed down the leading contenders.
After finishing last season with a 7-11 record, there is a hint of optimism in the former City of Champions. However, four seasons without making the playoffs have severely impacted attendance. Hervey has emphasized that the next coach must be a “grown-up” capable of providing steady leadership and clear expectations to help build a competitive team from the ground up.
Here are six candidates who might be considered for the position of the 25th head coach of the Edmonton Elks.
Rick Campbell, Free Agent
Last job: Head Coach and Co-General Manager (B.C.)
If you’re wondering why this list is so short, it’s because of the strong favorite for the position in Edmonton. Despite being fired by the Lions last week, Campbell fits all the criteria the Elks are seeking. The 53-year-old is a former Grey Cup champion who has successfully transformed two losing teams into playoff contenders and has led his teams to the postseason in seven of his ten seasons as a CFL head coach.
Additionally, he is the son of Hugh Campbell, Edmonton’s greatest coach and executive, who is often credited with creating the “Eskimo Way” that the current regime aims to revive. The connections to the city are compelling, especially considering that Campbell spent his formative years there, began his coaching career as an assistant with the team, and was the last head coach hired by Hervey when he was the GM in B.C.
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