Its a new-look Eskimos team entering the 2019 season, and quarterback Trevor Harris is one of many new faces in the Edmonton lineup.
You’re going to need a program to follow this version of the Eskimos this season. General manager Brock Sutherland may have been the busiest manager in all of professional sports, re-structuring the offence and defence. After failing to sign former MVP Mike Reilly, he made it his mission to find a replacement and plenty of assets.
Last season
With a 9-9 record in 2018, the Eskimos were the only West division team to miss the post-season. It was the first time the franchise missed the playoffs since the 2013 season. The season took a turn for the worse when the club dumped three consecutive games in late September into October.
Edmonton Eskimos Acquisitions and Moves
For the first time since the 2012 season, the Eskimos will not have all-CFL pivot Mike Reilly under center. It’s a significant blow to the organization but they did a great job re-stocking the cupboards. Enter former Redblacks quarterback Trevor Harris to the fold, and he didn’t come alone from our nation’s capital. All-stars Greg Ellingson (receiver) offensive lineman Sir Vincent Rogers also make the move west. The Esks didn’t stop there, adding receivers DaVaris Daniels, Ricky Collins and Tevaun Smith. They will have to carry the load after the departures of Duke Williams (NFL) and Derel Walker (Argos).
On defence, JC Sherritt called it a career, but new defensive coordinator Phillip Lolley is happy to welcome big-name free agents Larry Dean, Jovan-Santos Knox along with Anthony Orange.
2019 Edmonton Eskimos CFL Schedule
The Eskimos ease into the season hosting the Alouettes in week one. You can’t fault them if they are already looking past that game at Week 2’s match-up with former Eskimo Mike Reilly. Their first matchup with the defending Grey Cup champion, and more importantly provincial rival Calgary, will be in Week 8. Of course the two teams will meet again on Labour Day.
Edmonton Eskimos CFL Prediction and Odds
The Eskimos are longshots to win the West Division paying +900 at Sports Interaction, even longer to win the Grey Cup at +1200. They will improve on their .500 record. We have them pencilled down for a 10-8 season.
