The Calgary Stampeders opened their 2026 rookie camp on Wednesday, with 45 fresh faces taking the field at McMahon Stadium. The three-day camp, running through Friday, marks the beginning of the on-field preparations for the upcoming Canadian Football League season.
Coaching Staff's Search for Impact Players
General Manager and Head Coach Dave Dickenson emphasized the importance of identifying talent that can challenge the veterans. "I didn't really feel a lot of the juice. I think that's a product of the guys just trying to feel out the process, feel out what this game's about," Dickenson said. "But I'm hoping in this rookie camp, we find some guys that are really going to push the vets and make us better."
Top Draft Pick Eric Rascoe
The standout among the rookies is linebacker Eric Rascoe, selected sixth overall in the 2026 CFL Draft. Rascoe, who previously played for the Indoor Football League's San Antonio Gunslingers, brings professional experience and Canadian status. "A lot of moving parts, but it's really fun — a really fun game to play. I'm enjoying it. Just trying to be a sponge right now and soak everything in," Rascoe said.
Standing at nearly 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds, Rascoe is expected to add bulk and potentially move to an inside linebacker spot. Dwayne Cameron, the Stampeders' director of Canadian scouting, noted, "Eric's almost 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds and has the ability to get up to 225 or 230 and move to one of the inside linebacker spots."
Other Draft Picks and Prospects
The rookie camp includes all seven of the Stampeders' 2026 draft selections. Rascoe was the fastest linebacker at the CFL Combine with a 4.56-second 40-yard dash and had an impressive college career with 8.5 sacks, 20 tackles for loss, and five interceptions. The team hopes these newcomers will contribute immediately and in future seasons.
Looking Ahead
The rookie camp serves as a precursor to main camp, which begins Sunday. The Stampeders are focused on building depth and finding players who can help them contend for the Grey Cup, which will be hosted at McMahon Stadium this November. The coaching staff will evaluate the rookies closely over the next few days to determine who earns a spot on the roster.
