Roster spots on the line as Stampeders visit Elks in preseason finale

CALGARY — Josh Love will get another opportunity to strengthen his case for the Calgary Stampeders’ backup quarterback job Friday night as Calgary closes out its CFL preseason schedule against the Edmonton Elks at Clarke Stadium.



Love is listed as Calgary’s starter for the preseason finale, with Jacolby Criswell, Ben Wooldridge and Quincy Vaughn also expected to see action as the Stampeders evaluate their quarterback depth ahead of final roster cuts. Veteran Vernon Adams Jr. is among several established players not expected to dress.



The game is expected to serve as a final showcase for many players battling for roster spots and practice roster consideration before cutdown decisions arrive this weekend.



Calgary’s receiving corps features several younger playmakers looking to leave an impression, including Dante Wright, Jeremiah Hunter, Rashod Owens and Tevin Jones. Running back Dedrick Mills is also expected to handle a significant workload behind an offensive line made up largely of players competing for depth roles.



Defensively, veteran linebacker Micah Teitz headlines a group featuring a mix of returning depth players and newcomers still fighting for opportunities. The Stampeders are also expected to continue evaluating their defensive backfield depth with several veteran starters unavailable.



Among the notable inactive players for Calgary are Adams, Reggie Begelton, Jalen Philpot, Folarin Orimolade and longtime kicker Rene Paredes.



Friday’s matchup marks Calgary’s final live evaluation before the CFL’s regular-season roster deadline, with special teams play, versatility and late-game execution likely to play a major role in determining who remains with the organization entering Week 1.



Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. MT at Clarke Stadium in Edmonton.