The Stampeders are bringing back running back Dedrick Mills, who led the team in rushing yards this past season. Calgary fans probably remember the hard-nosed running Mills provided in his nine starts. He’s a tough dude who finished runs with authority.
Mills ran for over 800 yards and found the end zone 4 times in 2023. Not too shabby! He also caught his fair share of passes out of the backfield – 21 receptions to be exact. So he can beat you on the ground or as a receiver. Versatile cat.
At 27 years old, Mills is just entering his prime. He’s got a nice career going with with 1,200+ rush yards in his couple seasons up in Canada. The Nebraska boy has adjusted nicely to the CFL game. And I’d bet Coach Dickenson slept a little better at night once he knew Mills was back in the fold for 2024.
You need players like Mills to make a run in this league. Sure, you want flashy playmakers. But you also need lunchpail guys who turn up and get the job done. Mills feels like one of those reliable types. Ok, he’s not exactly the most attractive name on the roster, but he is a key cog in the Stampede’s line-up, nevertheless.
Also, Calgary’s backfield is looking steady with their leading rusher back on board. I’d imagine Stamps fans are breathing easier knowing they’ve got the hard-running Mills signed up for next year’s push towards the Grey Cup.
With Dedrick staying and other players already committing, the NHL odds for the team will likely remain similar to the 2023/24 season. However, if the team strengthens, then the sports bookies will start to shorten the odds, so maybe now is a good time to take a punt for the best odds. However, the betting odds could always go the other way if we don’t see the Stampede’s make further improvements.
Along with Mills, the Stamps also re-signed defensive back Nick Statz, return specialist Peyton Logan, and special teamer Darius Williams.
Statz Solidifies Secondary
Statz, a Calgary native, has steadily contributed for his hometown squad. Last season he tallied 5 defensive tackles, 2 interceptions, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 pass defense. Not eye-popping stats, but quality depth and special teams play from the 6th round selection.
Dynamic Returner Logan Re-Upped
Logan has electrified as a return man the past couple seasons. Before injury struck in 2023, he led the CFL in all-purpose yards in ’22. When healthy, he’s a threat to take any return back to the house. Calgary wants that playmaking potential back in the fold.
Key Special Teamer Williams Back
Williams flies under the radar but led the Stamps last year with 22 special teams tackles. He’s an unheralded cog you can’t win without.
By re-upping nine players so far, Calgary is showing commitment to continuity. After an underwhelming 2023, the Stamps hope familiarity breeds success as they look to rebound next season.
Dave Dickenson Announces New Staff For 2024
Stampeder head honcho Dave Dickenson has assembled his coaching crew for next season. It’s a good blend of familiar Calgary faces along with a some new blood to mix things up.
Longtime coordinator and special teams wizard Mark Kilam returns for his 20th season roaming the Stampeder sidelines. The guy is an institution up there. On the defensive side, coordinator Brent Monson is entering his 15th year coaching Calgary’s stop troop. While over on offense, playcaller Pat Del Monaco returns for his 11th tour of duty. We’re talking a lot of institutional knowledge on this staff.
Dickenson did infuse new ideas into the offensive staff. André Bolduc comes over from up Highway 2 to coach the running backs. He’s got nearly a decade’s experience coaching in Montreal and Saskatchewan. On the quarterback front, Ryan Williams joins the fold following several seasons coaching SEC ball at Georgia. Fresh perspectives that hopefully inspire improved performance from Calgary’s offense.
Some other notable returning staff members: veteran receiver Nik Lewis starts his second season coaching the Stampeder wideouts after playing over 10 years for Calgary, while ex-Stampeder linebacker Juwan Simpson takes on the defensive line job. Bob Slowik also returns to tutor the linebacking core.
With over 50 seasons combined experience just working for Calgary, this group knows the CFL and this organization extremely well. After an underwhelming 2023 campaign, Dickenson clearly hopes that veteran savvy blended with new looks on offense can help the Stampeders recapture their usual perch atop the West Division standings.