Day 18 of Calgary Stampeders main camp saw the kickers take center stage as veteran René Paredes remains sidelined with a leg injury. Dawson Hodge and Jude McAtamney are getting significant repetitions, preparing for a future without the legendary kicker.
A Legendary Career Nearing Its End
René Paredes, a six-time CFL all-star and the fifth all-time in field goals made, is entering his 15th season with the Stampeders. At 41, he is the franchise's second all-time leading scorer. However, his absence from practice has opened the door for younger talent.
"Yeah … we've got to give René the respect he deserves," said McAtamney. "Like he's been playing here since 2011, and he's done it at such a high level. And we can only look up to him and what he's done."
Preparing for the Future
Stampeders GM/head coach Dave Dickenson acknowledged that Paredes is unlikely to be ready for the season opener against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on June 5, 2026. "Not at this point, no," Dickenson said. "Just he's not feeling quite right."
This has allowed Hodge and McAtamney to take on larger roles in camp. "It's a good opportunity to come in this year and learn from him," Hodge said. "And then whenever he's finished up, it's like he's passed on information to us on what to expect, and then it's a good opportunity for us after that."
The Contenders
- Dawson Hodge (24, 5'11, 184 lbs, Wilfrid Laurier) – Undrafted rookie
- Jude McAtamney (26, 6'1, 215 lbs, Rutgers) – Sixth-overall pick in 2026 CFL Draft
- René Paredes (41, 5'11, 200 lbs, Concordia) – Veteran, injured
McAtamney, originally from Northern Ireland, spent time with the NFL's New York Giants in 2025, going 3-for-3 on field goals and averaging 63.8 yards on kickoffs. His experience adds depth to the competition.
Dickenson compared kickers to golfers, emphasizing the need for repetition. "I'm sure Rene's chomping at the bit to get out here. And I do think he'll be kicking fairly soon." Until then, the spotlight remains on the new generation.
