The Saskatchewan Roughriders turned up the intensity under sunny Saskatoon skies on Day 8 of training camp, and defensive lineman Kendy Charles continued to turn heads.
With CFL officials on the field assisting with rule interpretation and accountability, the Riders practiced in pads for part of the session as preparations ramped up ahead of Saturday’s preseason matchup against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Charles has been one of the early standouts along the defensive line after recording a sack and three tackles in Saskatchewan’s preseason opener against Calgary.
Now entering his second year with the organization, Charles said familiarity with the coaching staff and defensive system has helped him hit the ground running.
“I was here last year, so I’m pretty familiar with the staff and the scheme,” Charles said. “So now it’s just about putting it all together and competing.”
One of the biggest adjustments for the defensive lineman has been seeing former teammate Micah Johnson transition into a coaching role. According to Charles, Johnson’s impact was felt immediately during Monday’s game in Calgary.
“Like in the game we just played, he just saw something,” Charles explained. “He told me and I went out there and did it. And that’s how I got my last sack.”
Charles even joked Johnson deserved part of the credit on the stat sheet.
“I think so,” Charles said when asked if Johnson should get half a sack. “Because he should. He definitely saw it. He definitely has an eye for the game.”
Despite offseason turnover along Saskatchewan’s defensive front, Charles believes the group is coming together quickly.
“I don’t think there’s no concern at all with the guys we have in our room,” Charles said. “Everyone in the group is super tight and we have a good bond. We helping each other get better every day.”
Charles said one of his priorities is consistently executing within the structure of the defence, something he felt showed up on film against the Stampeders.
“I pride myself on getting where I need to be, doing my job at a high level and showcasing what I have within the framework of the defence,” Charles said.
While the defensive line impressed again Wednesday, the offence also generated several explosive moments throughout practice.
Trevor Harris connected with Samuel Emilus on a 10-yard touchdown pass, while Thomas Bertrand-Hudon ripped off a run of more than 20 yards. Jack Coan found D’Sean Mimbs in traffic for a first down and later connected with Daniel Wiebe in the back of the end zone to the delight of offensive teammates.
Brayden Schager also delivered one of the throws of the day, hitting draft pick Dylan Djete in traffic for a 40-yard completion, while Emilus added a 40-yard touchdown run on a surprise rushing play.
Defensively, Rolan Milligan Jr. intercepted a Trevor Harris pass in the flat and Trae Tomlinson stepped in front of a Schager throw for another takeaway.
The Riders will return to the field Thursday for their final full practice before hosting Winnipeg on Saturday.
