Five veterans stand out At Camp
Receivers, linemen and defensive back all set good example during pre-season
Veterans have it rough at the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ training camp.
The novelty of attending a CFL training camp has long worn off as they have been through it all before. However, veterans know a poor showing could quickly end a football career.
So there is pressure on the veterans to keep impressing coaches. A number of veterans have done just that this year — five in particular.
DURON CARTER
Carter has done everything and more than anyone could ask from a veteran.
He’s among the most active players while practising as a wide receiver and defensive back. The Riders’ coaching staff has even found time for Carter to work out with the returners.
Carter takes those responsibilities seriously.
He may not hustle as much between plays as some people would like, but he’s saving his energy for when he needs it. You can’t find fault with that.
Even after all of that, Carter has all the time in the world for the fans who line the fence after practices. He signs autographs, poses for pictures, and has a way of making each fan feel special.
Carter’s on-field talent is without question. His off-field interactions are just as special.
BRENDON LABATTE
Labatte’s steady approach to training camp is something that all players should emulate. He works hard on the field and is a quiet leader in the locker-room.
That leadership was evident on Sunday when the 11th-year CFL veteran delivered a heartfelt message on behalf of himself and his teammates while talking to the media during the Riders’ visit to Humboldt.
Labatte, 31, has primarily played left guard in his career, but has also taken repetitions at centre and even tackle over that time. He looks after the details, which is among the reasons why he’s one of the best offensive linemen in the game.
WILLIE JEFFERSON
Jefferson’s bursts of energy produce the maximum impact during training camp.
The offence will be going against the defence and Jefferson will come out of nowhere to knock down a pass from his defensive end position. On the next play, he will drop back into pass coverage as a linebacker. He will then hustle to the defensive line and put his efforts into rushing the passer.
Jefferson, 27, has developed into one of the league’s top defensive players.
He has accomplished that by working out in the off-season and putting together the aforementioned sequences during training camp — setting the tone for big plays in the regular season.
Jefferson has a job locked up and doesn’t necessarily have to put in that kind of effort. The fact he does makes his performances in training camp all the more impressive. CREZDON BUTLER
Ed Gainey earned most of the attention in 2017, leading the CFL with 10 interceptions. The veteran defensive halfback was certainly worthy of the recognition, including an all-star nod.
But the 31-year-old Butler is also deserving of some recognition, especially after his first season with the Riders.
Last season, Butler started 15 regular-season games, registering 39 defensive tackles, four pass knockdowns, two sacks and a forced fumble. Over two playoff games, the veteran defensive halfback had eight defensive tackles and one fumble recovery.
That performance has carried over to 2018. He’s still among the team’s best defensive backs in terms of coverage.
The Riders recognized Butler’s capabilities when signing him to a contract extension through the 2018 season. Butler may not post the flashy interception numbers, but he’s among the league’s most consistent defensive backs.
Labatte, 31, has primarily played left guard in his career, but has also taken repetitions at centre and even tackle over that time.
ROB BAGG
No list of impressive veterans would be complete without Bagg.
At 33, he’s another leader on the field and in the locker-room. That comes while playing the field receiver, who doesn’t see a whole lot of action due to the difficulty some quarterbacks have of completing the long passes to the far sideline.
Bagg hasn’t had the opportunity to be within arm’s reach of the quarterbacks, but nonetheless makes an impact in other ways, like blocking.
As is the case with Labatte, all players can learn a great deal from watching Bagg ’s practice habits.