The Calgary Stampeders host provincial rivals the Edmonton Elks at McMahon Stadium in a preseason Battle of Alberta, with the Stamps aiming to build on a 26-16 Week 1 win over the BC Lions and the Elks debuting a revamped roster under new head coach Mark Kilam.
Stampeders’ preseason momentum
Fresh off a dominant ground game (135 rushing yards, 3 TDs) against the Lions, Calgary starts quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. for the first time, with the veteran expected to play up to a half. The Stamps’ run-heavy approach, led by unmentioned but impactful rushers, will test Edmonton’s defensive depth. Middle linebacker Marquel Lee, who recorded five defensive tackles and three special teams stops in 2023, seeks to cement his role as defensive anchor.
Elks’ new era begins
Edmonton’s preseason opener marks Kilam’s head coaching debut after 17 years as Calgary’s special teams coordinator. Quarterback Cody Fajardo, the 2023 Grey Cup’s Most Outstanding Player, steps in as starter with Canadian pivot Tre Ford sidelined. Fajardo, acquired via trade from Montreal, brings stability to a unit that cycled through multiple QBs in 2023. Rookies William McElvain (Central Arkansas) and Cole Snyder will also see snaps, offering glimpses of the Elks’ future.
Watch live. CFL Preseason: Edmonton Elks @ Calgary Stampeders, May 25, 03:30 CET (3:30 am, 9:30 pm May 24 ET)
Defensive line auditions
With top pass rushers Jake Ceresna, Robbie Smith, Noah Curtis, and Jared Brinkman absent, Edmonton’s defensive line features unproven talent. Veteran Brandon Barlow (14 sacks since 2022) and Noah Taylor (2 sacks in 2024 before injury) headline the group, while ex-NFL lineman Shakel Brown aims to translate camp dominance into game-day production.
Receiving corps showcase
The Elks’ receiver room, a preseason bright spot, blends size and pedigree. Zach Mathis (6’7”) looks to build on his 2024 finale heroics (game-tying TD vs. Toronto), while Binjimen Victor (6’6”, 18 career TDs at Ohio State) and ex-Georgia standouts Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint and Kearis Jackson add red-zone intrigue.
<head-to-head history
Though the Elks swept all three 2023 regular-season meetings, the Stampeders won their last preseason matchup 29-24. Calgary’s experimental lineup and Edmonton’s roster turnover muddy expectations, but pride in the provincial rivalry guarantees intensity.
Outlook: Evaluating depth and chemistry
For Calgary, Adams’ rhythm with starters and defensive cohesion (after allowing 16 points to BC) are priorities. Edmonton focuses on Fajardo’s command, defensive line rotations, and receiver depth behind Mathis. While the result holds minimal weight, both teams aim to solidify rotations ahead of the regular season. Expect a spirited, if uneven, showcase of emerging talent and veteran savvy.