Alouettes Quarterback Davis Alexander Modifies Training Regimen to Stay Healthy
Montreal Alouettes quarterback Davis Alexander is taking a proactive approach to his off-season preparation, aiming to avoid a repeat of the hamstring injuries that plagued his 2025 campaign. In an exclusive interview with The Gazette, Alexander revealed that he has lightened his training load and focused on weight management as key strategies for the upcoming season.
Learning from a Painful Grey Cup Experience
"We all go to bed thinking about that final game and how close we were," Alexander said, reflecting on Montreal's 25-17 Grey Cup loss to the Saskatchewan Roughriders last November. The quarterback acknowledged that his limited mobility due to hamstring issues significantly impacted his performance in the championship game.
Alexander completed 22 of 34 passes for 284 yards but threw three interceptions and rushed only twice in the defeat. He believes a healthier version of himself could have made a crucial difference. "You can't assume anything, but I'm sure I would have been a little more effective earlier on," he admitted.
Over-Training Contributed to Injury Problems
In his first season as the Alouettes' starting quarterback, Alexander now recognizes that his intense off-season training regimen may have backfired. He added 15 to 20 pounds of muscle last winter, reaching 220 pounds at one point during the season. "I probably worked a bit too hard," Alexander conceded. "At one point during the season, I weighed 220 pounds and said that was too heavy."
The quarterback aims to play this season between 210-214 pounds, believing this lighter frame will reduce strain on his hamstrings. Medical professionals informed him that his diligent training actually prevented a more severe injury, as his hamstring pulled rather than tearing completely off the bone.
A New Approach to Preparation
With training camp approximately three months away, Alexander has already begun implementing changes. "The most important part is making sure I'm available for as many of the 18 regular-season games as possible — and the playoffs," he emphasized during his recent visit to Montreal for medical evaluation.
Alexander underwent data testing on his left leg to ensure symmetry and proper healing. He worked out for team therapists and was scheduled for an ultrasound before returning to his winter training base in Scottsdale, Arizona. He plans to return to Montreal by early March and be settled full-time by mid-April.
Team Support and Future Outlook
Alouettes general manager Danny Maciocia expressed confidence in Alexander's recovery process. "We're looking forward to having a healthy Davis at camp," Maciocia stated, confirming that the injury is progressing as expected.
Despite the physical adjustments, Alexander remains committed to his leadership role. "Forever and always, I'll still be the same person," he affirmed. "You definitely come in with a bit more confidence, and it seems everyone does believe in you. I'll show a little bit more leadership. I feel like I've earned that role."
The quarterback's injury history is notable: his left hamstring first bothered him during training camp, limiting him to just seven regular-season games. He suffered initial damage during a June game at Edmonton, experienced a relapse in July against Toronto while scoring a winning touchdown, and tweaked it again during the East Division final against Hamilton.
Looking Ahead with Renewed Focus
Alexander views last season's challenges as valuable learning experiences. "It's all part of the learning process," he reflected. "I do think we got into a rhythm the last quarter and a half of the Grey Cup, and you saw the firepower of our offence. The defence was playing lights out, too."
The quarterback's modified training approach represents a strategic shift for the talented player, who recently signed an extension through 2028. As the Alouettes prepare for another championship run, Alexander's health and availability remain crucial factors in the team's success.
"That's motivating in itself," Alexander said of the Grey Cup loss, indicating that the narrow defeat continues to drive his preparation for the upcoming season.
