The Ottawa Redblacks have made a major move in the Canadian Football League (CFL) by trading all-star linebacker Lorenzo Mauldin IV to the Calgary Stampeders.
Mauldin, who was acquired by the Redblacks in a trade with the Toronto Argonauts last year, had a strong season with the team, recording 27 tackles and three sacks in just 10 games. However, with the Redblacks currently sitting at the bottom of the CFL standings, it seems they are looking to make some changes.
In exchange for Mauldin, the Redblacks will receive a conditional draft pick from the Stampeders. This move not only gives the Redblacks some future assets, but it also frees up some salary cap space for the struggling team.
Mauldin, a former third-round pick in the NFL, joined the CFL in 2019 and quickly made a name for himself as a dominant pass rusher. His departure from the Redblacks will surely be felt, as he was a key player on their defense.
On the other hand, the Stampeders are gaining a valuable addition to their roster. With their current record of 5-4, they are in a much better position than the Redblacks and are looking to solidify their playoff chances with the addition of Mauldin.
This trade also reunites Mauldin with his former coach, Stampeders’ defensive coordinator Brent Monson, who was previously the linebackers coach for the Argonauts.
It is clear that both teams have made this trade with their own goals in mind. The Redblacks are looking to rebuild and the Stampeders are looking to strengthen their roster for a playoff push.
Only time will tell how this trade will ultimately impact both teams, but one thing is for sure – the CFL is in for an exciting second half of the season.
