LIVESTREAM CFL Preseason: Montreal Alouettes @ Ottawa Redblacks, May 31, 01:00 CET (1 am, 7 pm May 30 ET)
The Ottawa Redblacks and Montreal Alouettes wrap up their 2025 Canadian Football League preseason schedules at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa on Friday, May 30, with both teams resting starters to evaluate rookies ahead of Saturday’s 10:00 p.m. local roster cut deadline.
Rookies in the spotlight: Ottawa
With veterans sidelined, Ottawa’s focus shifts to unproven talent. Receiver Sam Schnee (Northern Iowa) stands out after a four-catch, 54-yard, one-touchdown preseason debut, leveraging his slotback-ready quickness. Defensive back Shakur Brown (Michigan State), a former USFL/XFL standout, aims to crack a shaky secondary after contributing two tackles and two special teams stops last week. Sixth-round draft pick Ethan Jordan (Wilfrid Laurier) could seize an opportunity following Nick Mardner’s injury, needing a strong showing to solidify his backup receiver role. Punter Noah Gettman (Akron) challenges incumbent Richie Leone, offering cost efficiency and comparable performance, while Global pick Callum Eddings adds competition.
Rookies in the spotlight: Montreal
Montreal’s pared-down roster highlights late addition Kori Roberson Jr. (SMU), whose interior pass-rush potential shone with a Week 1 sack. Receiver Jalen Wayne (South Alabama), back after a Packers practice squad stint, must improve on last week’s three-catch, 32-yard outing to secure a role. Cornerback Don Callis (Troy), boasting 4.4 speed, could thrive on the wider CFL field as he vies for a depth spot.
Watch live. Montreal Alouettes @ Ottawa Redblacks, May 31, 01:00 CET (1 am, 7 pm May 30 ET)
Quarterback auditions
Montreal starts third-stringer Caleb Evans, returning from a 2024 knee injury, in a critical audition. The 26-year-old (3,460 career passing yards, 31 rushing TDs) faces pressure from James Morgan and Canadian draft pick Jonathan Senecal. Ottawa’s quarterback room remains unchanged, with focus on position battles elsewhere.
Special teams and roster math
Punting takes center stage in Ottawa, where Gettman and Eddings challenge Leione’s high salary. Montreal’s Don Callis could leverage special teams versatility to secure a role, while Shakur Brown’s dual-phase contributions strengthen his case in Ottawa.
Final cuts loom
Friday’s game serves as a last chance for fringe players. Ottawa must decide between cost-effective punting options and veteran experience, while Montreal evaluates Evans’ viability amid a crowded QB room. For undrafted talents like Schnee and Jordan, standout moments could clinch roster spots.
With starters resting, the preseason finale prioritizes individual growth over final scores. By Saturday night, both teams will finalize rosters, shaping their strategies for the 2025 CFL regular season.
Key Notes:
- Venue: TD Place Stadium, Ottawa.
- Roster Cuts Due: Saturday, May 31, 10:00 p.m. local time.
- Players to Watch: Sam Schnee (OTT), Kori Roberson Jr. (MTL), Caleb Evans (MTL).