Mike Sherman departing the Alouettes wasn’t mutual despite what Kavis Reed claims

Even though Montreal Alouettes general manager Kavis Reed tried to portray the Mike Sherman decision as a mutual parting of ways, the former Als head coach disagrees.

Montreal Gazette beat man Herb Zurkowsky tracked Sherman down for his side of what happened.

After 48 hours of trying to reach former #AlsMTL head coach Mike Sherman, he responded tonight. It certainly sounds like his departure wasn't mutual, although he admitted, ultimately, it wasn't his to make. "I don't agree with the decision, but it wasn't mine to make," he said.

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— Herb Zurkowsky (@HerbZurkowsky1) June 11, 2019

"My only regret is that nothing critical was ever communicated to me that there was a concern," Sherman continued. He doesn't believe he was struggling to get used to Canadian football. "I think there's an adjustment period, no doubt, from the NFL to CFL. …

— Herb Zurkowsky (@HerbZurkowsky1) June 11, 2019

"But I don't remember last year us making poor decisions as a result of me being new to the CFL game. My staff was very helpful in that area as I grew into that role and would have continued being better this year." Sherman said it was challenging making cuts after two games …

— Herb Zurkowsky (@HerbZurkowsky1) June 11, 2019

And expressed that to GM @Kavis_Reed. "A two-game window is a challenge when making cuts to young men fighting to make the team. I did struggle with that short time frame. But I believe any CFL head coach and GM would tell you they have the same struggles in choosing to put …

— Herb Zurkowsky (@HerbZurkowsky1) June 11, 2019

"the best roster out there. Many of these aren't slam-dunk decisions. I wish we just had more time to get to know these players a little better – not just as athletes, but men." Sherman said he was never advised of scheme-related struggles by Reed. "I find that odd …

— Herb Zurkowsky (@HerbZurkowsky1) June 11, 2019

"He mentioned, on more than a couple occasions that he loved the structure of our new defence as well as the added creativity of our schemes on offence. He (Reed) never once mentioned anything significant was amiss until I read his quote. I've always found real honest and …

— Herb Zurkowsky (@HerbZurkowsky1) June 11, 2019

"transparent communication is ultimately the key to success. Can't have enough of that." Sherman said he believes @Khari17Jones is the right man to success him due to his enthusiasm and passion. "He'll give it his all. This is an opportunity I'm sure he's been waiting for …

— Herb Zurkowsky (@HerbZurkowsky1) June 11, 2019

"and he'll make the most of it," Sherman said. He believes the team can make significant improvement this season, calling them good players and men. "I believe they've developed a chemistry with each other that will help them through the peaks and valleys every season presents."

— Herb Zurkowsky (@HerbZurkowsky1) June 11, 2019

Sherman had kudos for the organization's marketing department. He said he's impressed with the creative logo, different look and new identity. "Marketing scored big this year," Sherman said. There are many players he'll miss, including @7Bowman, @Tommie_Campbell, @HenocMuamba…

— Herb Zurkowsky (@HerbZurkowsky1) June 11, 2019

B.J. Cunningham, @WoodyBaron1 and @GENOALLDAY7. Sherman said all were quality character players, adding Bowman is one of the best leaders he's coached. He said Molson Stadium fans were great and passionate. Finally, Sherman said he'll miss the smoked meat sandwiches.

— Herb Zurkowsky (@HerbZurkowsky1) June 11, 2019

Mike Sherman and @Kavis_Reed clearly weren’t on the same page. “You could say it was time to move on for both parties,” Sherman conceded. “I wish nothing but the best for the Als. These players and coaches have worked.”

— Herb Zurkowsky (@HerbZurkowsky1) June 11, 2019

Sherman joined the Alouettes in December of 2017 following a lengthy head coaching search. The club confirmed that Sherman and Reed would both return for the 2019 season this past November after going 5-13 last year.

But less than a week before the Als first regular season game Sherman was axed. It’s another case as to why the Alouettes appear to be dysfunctional.