Recovered receiver Tyson Philpot is optimistic for Alouettes' offence

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It’s nonetheless too untimely to recommend Tyson Philpot has been troubled by the sophomore jinx, however this season isn’t taking part in out the way in which the Alouettes’ receiver had hoped.

No less than 12 regular-season video games stay.

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Philpot, chosen ninth general by Montreal in 2022, was the East Division’s excellent rookie after catching 39 passes for 459 yards, whereas scoring two touchdowns. He additionally contributed on particular groups, returning 11 punts for 153 yards and 12 kickoffs for 342 yards.

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The Pittsburgh Steelers thought extremely sufficient of the 6-foot, 195-pounder to deliver him in final winter for an low season exercise.

However in any case that, Philpot suffered a big hamstring harm on the opening day of coaching camp and was finally positioned on the six-game injured record. He was activated final Sunday in opposition to Calgary — one recreation early — as a result of the Als had been brief a Canadian resulting from an harm to offensive-tackle Landon Rice.

Philpot solely was focused as soon as within the recreation, because the Als failed to attain an offensive landing, however ought to contribute considerably extra Saturday evening, at Hamilton.

“Clearly it’s not the way in which I needed to begin the season with the expectations after doing so nicely final yr and all of the work I put in through the low season,” Philpot stated following follow on Thursday. “It positively was a setback. Being across the guys and taking a look at it like someplace I can develop and study. I benefited from it, staying mentally locked in and ready for my flip.

“Clearly coming into camp the expectations had been to begin immediately and be one of many key contributing guys proper off the bat,” added the 23-year-old native of Delta, B.C. “Chemistry-wise with Cody (quarterback Fajardo) it’s positively a setback. It’s a piece in progress. I’m simply grateful to be again on the sector and wholesome.”

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Philpot would have been an integral a part of the Als’ offence regardless this season however now, with fellow non-import Kaion Julien-Grant sidelined indefinitely with a hand harm, Philpot will probably be relied on much more closely. He stated he feels stronger bodily than he did nearly three months in the past, following the in depth rehabilitation program he was below. Philpot, an electrifying menace with the ball in his arms, stated he feels sooner.

Whereas head coach Jason Maas wasn’t with the Als final season, he took notice of Philpot’s exploits whereas serving as Saskatchewan’s offensive co-ordinator.

“I knew he was able to play on this league,” Maas stated. “When he acquired his alternative I wasn’t shocked in any respect. He’s clearly a really thrilling participant, significantly with the ball in his arms. Simply dynamic is the way in which I describe him. He has the flexibility to do all the things. I’ve watched him do quite a lot of various things and be productive.

“He was damage so early in camp for us we didn’t actually get glimpse of what he might be. However the final week of follow, watching him, it’s fairly thrilling.”

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Philpot returns to an offensive group that has modified radically since final season. Not solely is the system totally different below Maas, Montreal’s lacking quarterback Trevor Harris, receivers Eugene Lewis and Jake Wieneke, all of whom departed as free brokers, and receiver Reggie White Jr., recovering from knee surgical procedure.

The turnover in personnel has led to some inconsistent offensive performances.

“We’re all nonetheless studying,” Philpot stated. “It’s a really difficult offence. However we’re beginning to choose it up and really feel far more snug with the calls. As we construct weekly, it’s going to develop into extra pure. Personally and as a bunch I really feel like we’re very assured in the place we’re proper now. We’re excited to make some performs this week.”

Whereas Philpot’s NFL exercise confirmed him what may stay inside his attain as early as subsequent season, he emphasised his full consideration stays directed in the direction of the Als. “It makes me need to work more durable to placed on movie that I’m adequate to play within the NFL.”

Whereas Austin Mack, the Als’ main receiver, had a remedy day on Thursday, Maas stated he’s anticipated to play in opposition to the Tiger-Cats.

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