Image Credit: CFJC Today

By Adel Ahmed

BC LIONS TRAINING CAMP 2023

Vernon Adams Jr. leading the charge at quarterback for the Lions as training camp begins

May 19, 2023 | 10:59 AM

KAMLOOPS — The BC Lions prepare for another season in the Canadian Football League (CFL) but with a new voice at the quarterback position.

Nathan Rourke was the previous starter for the Lions. The Victoria, B.C. product was a star across the CFL, breaking a record for the most passing yards by a Canadian in a regular season game. Rourke’s successful season helped him sign with the Jacksonville Jaguars in January.

The next man up for the Lions at quarterback is veteran Vernon Adams Jr. who was acquired from the Montreal Alouettes last season.

“He did a good job last year of coming in mid-season and having to replace Nathan and learn the playbook and fit into our culture and the team,” Rick Campbell, Lions head coach and co-general manager told CFJC Today. “Coming in here you can tell he’s prepared and ready to go.”

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The former CFL East All-Star says he’s confident with how far the team can go given how there has been no major changes to the roster.

“We got that close last year. We got pretty much the same guys on this team so we can do it again.” Adams Jr. said.

The Lions were one win away from a Grey Cup appearance last fall, losing 28-20 to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Given how close the club was to a Grey Cup, they understand the work to get back there starts in the off-season and training camp.

“You win because you put in all the work,” Campbell said. “All the other eight teams are working right now. We got to make sure we’re not outworked by anyone and that we’re ready to go come June.”

The Lions will kick off their pre-season schedule on May 27 when they face the Saskatchewan Roughriders at Mosaic Stadium.