Redblacks lose electric returner DeVonte Dedmon to six-game injured list

Photo courtesy: Bob Butrym/RFB Sport Photography

The Ottawa Redblacks will be without their most electric weapon long-term, placing returner DeVonte Dedmon on the six-game injured list with a hand issue.

Through nine games this season, the 28-year-old speedster has fielded 26 kickoffs for 737 yards and a touchdown, returned 37 punts for 424 yards, and added a 73-yard missed field goal return. He also has one receiving touchdown in 2024.

Defensive back Brandin Dandridge is listed as the team’s replacement returner, but will also start at boundary cornerback. Strong-side linebacker Adarius Pickett has also handled return duties in the past.

Khalan Laborn will make his first career start at running back following the release of Ryquell Armstead earlier this week. The former five-star recruit ran for 1,513 yards and 16 touchdowns in his final season at Marshall University and later spent time with the Edmonton Elks. He will be backed up by former Saskatchewan Roughrider Jamal Morrow, who was signed on Tuesday.

After a brief return to the lineup, top pass rusher Bryce Carter (adductor) is headed back to the six-game injured list, with Canadian Kene Onyeka stepping in to start. Rookie receiver Nick Mardner (elbow) is listed as a game-time decision and will be backed up by Daniel Oladejo, with Keaton Bruggeling going down to the practice squad. Defensive back Bennett Williams will dress for depth.

The Ottawa Redblacks (7-3-1) will host the Toronto Argonauts (6-5) on Saturday, September 7 at 1:00 p.m. EDT.