CFL fines Elks QB McLeod Bethel-Thompson for criticizing league leadership over short week

The CFL has slapped Edmonton Elks’ quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson with a fine for his public comments regarding the league’s scheduling and leadership.

The 35-year-old went on a rant to broadcaster Dave Campbell of 630 CHED ahead of his team’s Week 4 loss to the B.C. Lions on Thursday, June 27, criticizing the CFL for forcing the team to play back-to-back road games on just four days rest.

“To me, it’s astounding that a league with nine teams can’t figure out how to not play on a five-day week. If this league cares anything about player safety, it shouldn’t happen. There’s plenty of ways to schedule this where no one plays on a five-day week. It’s kind of ridiculous and, again, a lack of leadership in the CFL. I think it’s clear there’s a lack of leadership all across this league. If we consider player safety at all, it shouldn’t be a thing,” Bethel-Thompson said.

“The people higher up don’t care about our health and safety. We have to do what we have to do to protect ourselves and to make sure we’re ready to go on Thursday and to put a good product out there and win a football game.”

The outspoken veteran quarterback will have to endure two more short weeks this season, though those will both be home-and-homes. Edmonton will host the Redblacks on Sunday, Aug. 14 before visiting the nation’s capital on Friday, Aug. 19. Two weeks later, the Elks will visit Calgary on Monday, Sept. 2 before hosting them on Saturday, Sept. 7 for the annual Labour Day Classic rematch.

Two other players also received supplemental discipline for actions taken in Week 4. Calgary defensive back Rodney Randle Jr. was fined for a blindside block on Winnipeg wide receiver Josh Johnson, while Hamilton defensive lineman Benoit Marion has been punished for punching Ottawa returner DeVonte Dedmon.

As per league policy, the amount of the fines was not disclosed. The maximum possible fine under the league’s collective bargaining agreement is equal to one-half of a player’s game cheque.

The Elks (0-4) are currently in the midst of a 17-day break between games. They will return to action on Sunday, July 14 against the Ottawa Redblacks.

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