JUST IN: Montreal Alouettes Keep QB Status Uncertain Amid Hamstring Injury
The Montreal Alouettes find themselves in a pivotal moment as they navigate the uncertainty surrounding quarterback Cody Fajardo’s injured hamstring. Head coach Jason Maas, while acknowledging Fajardo’s absence from practice following their bye week, remains cautiously optimistic about his availability for the upcoming clash against the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Maas addressed the media after practice on Sunday with a blend of hopefulness and realism regarding Fajardo’s status. “I’m hopeful that anybody that’s here is going to play and everyone that’s not here is going to play by the end of the week,” Maas remarked, reflecting the team’s cautious approach to managing Fajardo’s recovery.
The quarterback’s injury occurred during Montreal’s Week 6 matchup against the Toronto Argonauts, where he was forced to leave the game late in the first quarter due to what appeared to be a significant issue with his right hamstring. Despite initially leaving the field under his own power, Fajardo did not return to action, leaving the Alouettes to rely on backup Caleb Evans, who took over during practice sessions in preparation for the upcoming game.
Fajardo’s potential absence looms large over Montreal’s offensive strategy. His contributions have been substantial, with 1,636 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and only four interceptions across the team’s first six games. Notably, Fajardo’s leadership played a crucial role in steering the Alouettes to five consecutive victories before his untimely injury sidelined him. Beyond his passing prowess, Fajardo also made significant gains on the ground, tallying 142 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown, underscoring his versatility and impact on the team’s dynamic.
The circumstances surrounding Fajardo’s injury have sparked discussions within the league, particularly regarding player safety amid tight scheduling constraints. The injury occurred during a short week, a situation that has drawn criticism from players and coaches alike throughout the CFL season. Fellow quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson, a former teammate of Fajardo’s, has been vocal in his concerns about the league’s scheduling practices, emphasizing the risks they pose to player well-being.
Maas echoed these concerns to an extent but refrained from attributing Fajardo’s injury solely to the compacted game schedule. “I think that every game you have the potential to get hurt or injured no matter what, so I’m not here to speculate on that,” Maas commented. He emphasized that injuries are an inherent risk in football, regardless of the timing or circumstances surrounding a game.
Fajardo’s impact extends beyond his current season with the Alouettes. Since joining the CFL in 2016, the California native has amassed impressive career statistics, including 16,529 passing yards, 77 touchdowns, and 49 interceptions while playing for Toronto, B.C., Saskatchewan, and now Montreal. His career trajectory reached a pinnacle in 2021 when he led the Alouettes to their eighth Grey Cup title, earning recognition as the Grey Cup MVP in the process. His experience and track record make his potential absence a significant concern for the Alouettes as they aim to maintain their momentum in the competitive CFL landscape.
In Fajardo’s absence, Caleb Evans assumes a pivotal role for the Alouettes. During his relief appearance against the Argonauts, Evans demonstrated resilience and potential, completing 12 of 22 passes for 127 yards, along with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Should Fajardo be unable to recover in time for Thursday’s showdown with the Roughriders, Evans stands ready to step into the starting position. The team also has Davis Alexander and recently activated rookie James Morgan as additional quarterback options, ensuring depth at the crucial quarterback position.
Looking ahead, Maas emphasized that no definitive decisions regarding the starting quarterback would be made until closer to game day. “We have until game day to make that decision or the day before, so that’s what we’re doing,” Maas affirmed. The coaching staff remains focused on providing Fajardo with optimal treatment and rehabilitation opportunities throughout the week, hoping for a positive outcome that would allow him to lead the team against Saskatchewan.
The upcoming matchup between the Montreal Alouettes and the Saskatchewan Roughriders promises to be a pivotal showdown between two teams with identical 5-1 records. Scheduled for Thursday, July 25 at 7:30 p.m. EDT, this game carries significant implications for playoff positioning and divisional standings. The Alouettes, under Maas’ leadership, are determined to navigate the challenges posed by Fajardo’s injury and maintain their competitive edge in pursuit of their championship aspirations.
As the week unfolds and Fajardo’s recovery progresses, Montreal fans and CFL enthusiasts alike await eagerly for updates on his availability. His presence on the field represents more than just statistical contributions; it embodies leadership, experience, and a pivotal role in the Alouettes’ quest for success in the 2024 CFL season