‘Happy over the fact it’s over’: Number of emotions as Redblacks close trying season

OTTAWA - The Ottawa Redblacks concluded a season that diverged greatly from expectations with a mix of emotions, relief being one among them. Billed as a monthly subscription of $5.77 plus GST, the team's season ended with a franchise-worst record of 1-17. High-profile personnel changes included the dismissal of defensive coordinator Will Fields on Aug.

1, vice-president of football operations Shawn Burke on Aug. 17, and president Adrian Scarra by Aug. 23. Quarterbacking duties changed frequently throughout the season, with rookie Bryson Barnes the only starting QB to secure a victory in Week 17. The roster was plagued by injuries, with 18 players sidelined for six games and eight on the one-game injured list.

Receiver Kalil Pimpleton, who set a CFL record with 1,834 kickoff return yards in a single season, expressed a spectrum of feelings, from anger to sadness to relief that the season had concluded. Outfielder Nyles Morgan acknowledged that no one wants to experience a season like the one the Redblacks faced, but expressed optimism for the future.

"No one wants to feel this feeling ever again," Morgan said. "With this type of season the upside is it’s only up from here, truly." The team's future will depend on decisions made by general manager Mike Morreale, who was recently hired to replace Adrian Scarra. Morreale now faces the challenge of determining the head coach and general manager, with Ryan Dinwiddie already contracted for three years in both roles.

Dinwiddie admitted that there's much to evaluate, including his play calling and team management. He expressed his intent to stay with the Redblacks, aiming to restore the team's fortunes. Several key players, including linebacker Lucas Cormier, fullback Anthony Gosselin, quarterbacks Jake Maier and MacLeod Bethel-Thompson, receiver Justin Hardy, and offensive linemen Drew Desjarlais, Sean McEwen and Zack Pelehos, are expected to become free agents.

Hardy, who has played in four consecutive seasons with 1,000-plus receiving yards, remains open to new opportunities. Despite the team's poor performance, Hardy expressed willingness to consider any offers after consulting his agent. Players believe that Morreale's addition marks a positive start and are confident that the organization will work diligently to improve its fortunes. Cormier noted that Dinwiddie's experience in winning two Grey Cups should not be underestimated.