Just In: The Elks Loaded Up With Some Bye Week Reinforcements, The Veteran Presence On Defence

The Edmonton Elks have bolstered their roster with key additions during their bye week, including former CFL All-Star defensive lineman Shawn Oakman and linebacker Derrick Moncrief.

These acquisitions bring a sense of familiarity, especially for fans following the Canadian Football League, as Oakman previously played a significant role for the Toronto Argonauts during their 2022 Grey Cup Championship victory, while Moncrief is in his second stint with the Elks after joining the team from the Los Angeles Rams midway through the 2021 season.

The presence of these experienced veterans on the defensive side could be pivotal for Edmonton as they look to turn their season around. Despite suffering four losses this season by a combined 17 points, the Elks have been close to breakthroughs. Their opponents, with a combined 15-3 record and a +108-point differential, have emerged as the CFL’s top teams.

For Edmonton, the slim margin of defeat underscores the potential for a different outcome with just a single key play. General Manager and Head Coach Chris Jones emphasized the significance of these near-miss situations, prompting the team to seek out veteran leadership and talent during the bye week in hopes of making the necessary tweaks to secure the crucial plays needed for success.

The Elks’ competitive roster was a major attraction for Oakman, who had previously played under coach Jones in Toronto in 2021. Additionally, Oakman is encouraged by the fact that his former quarterback from his Grey Cup championship run is now leading the Edmonton team.

Expressing confidence in the existing roster, Oakman mentioned key players like McLeod Bethel-Thompson, Geno Lewis, Kurleigh Gittens, and Robert Nkemdiche, emphasizing the potential for a small addition to make a big difference. He hopes to be that missing piece.

For Moncrief, returning to Edmonton was largely influenced by his familiarity with the organization and coaching staff. Chris Jones, his first head coach in the CFL, and defensive coordinator Jason Shivers, who has been associated with Moncrief for around five years, were significant factors in his decision.

Moncrief expressed his excitement about rejoining this system, noting the seamless transition and his eagerness to dive back into the team’s processes.

Moncrief has experienced significant success under the guidance of Jones and Shivers, earning the title of CFL West Division All-star in 2019 and 2022 within a defensive system similar to the one employed by the Elks. His outstanding performance in 2019 while playing under Jones and Shivers even opened the door for him to join the NFL’s Rams.

Known for his versatility, the 31-year-old linebacker has shown his adaptability during his CFL career. In the nine games he played with the Elks in 2021, he recorded 23 tackles and four sacks. His performance in 2022 with the Saskatchewan Roughriders was particularly noteworthy, as he achieved a career-high of four interceptions.

Regarding the recent signings of Oakman and Moncrief, Jones noted that their experience adds depth to the team’s defense, which was previously lacking veterans with substantial playing time.

The leadership qualities of these experienced players off the field are deemed just as valuable as their on-field impact. Across the league, names like Shawn Oakman command a high level of respect, especially among players of a certain generation.

Oakman gained widespread recognition as a highly regarded prospect during his time at Baylor University in 2015, where an image of him became an internet sensation. Despite the passage of nearly a decade since the photo gained fame, Oakman embraces his internet persona, recognizing that it can help him establish himself as a leader in the locker room, especially for younger players who grew up watching him play.

Acknowledging his internet fame, the 32-year-old Oakman accepts this aspect of his identity and recognizes its influence, aiming to embody a positive role model for younger players who looked up to him during his televised performances.