Lions’ Willis feeling more comfortable

KAMLOOPS (CP) — Odell Willis is acting more like his old self again.

The veteran defensive lineman began his stay with the B.C. Lions last week talking like a rookie but only a few days into his 10th CFL training camp once more sounded like one of the league’s most flamboyant personalities when asked about his five seasons with the Edmonton Eskimos.

Willis is part of a large migration of former Edmonton players who have been acquired by new Lions general manager Ed Hervey, another Eskimos alumnus.

The 33-year-old Willis didn’t hold back when asked if he knew why he was part of an off-season, three-team deal that landed him with his fifth West Division squad.

B.C.’s new starting rush end was told he was acquired to bring his leadership to change the locker-room culture with the Lions.

He is not sure if that was the same reason he was dealt by Edmonton after talking with Eskimos coach Jason Maas.

“I basically read through what he told me and realized my time was done (in Edmonton) and the fact other players were telling me (coaches) think I’m a bad leader or spoiled apple,” Willis said.

“Why would they let me lead the team? How can I go from being the best leader in the league to all of a sudden the worst leader?” he added.

The player known as the Mayor of Swaggerville in Winnipeg acted more like a rookie upon reporting to camp.

Willis tweeted that he was excited and nervous about joining the Lions.

The Edmonton exit has played a small part, Willis said, in taking a subordinate role during his first week with the Lions.

The barrell-rolls which have been part of Willis’ game after sacks will likely have to wait until the Lions open the regular season at home June 16 against Montreal.

Willis didn’t make it through practice on Thursday, however. He was removed as a precaution after suffering a possible concussion.