Day 6 of the Calgary Stampeders main training camp put special teams in the spotlight, with newcomer Tyreik McAllister aiming to reignite the return game. The 5-foot-9, 183-pound running back returns to the Canadian Football League after a stint in the United States, hoping to bring excitement to McMahon Stadium.
McAllister's return to the CFL
McAllister, known for his elusiveness, previously played for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 2023, where he led the league in kickoff return average. He recorded 41 kickoff returns for 1,037 yards, 56 punt returns for 602 yards, and seven missed-field goal returns for 408 yards. His all-purpose yards included 27 receptions for 364 yards and two touchdowns, plus 13 carries for 52 yards, earning him the Ticats' nomination for the league's Most Outstanding Special Teams Player award.
"Expect a guy that's gonna give it 110 per cent every time I'm on the field," said McAllister. "Every time I touch the ball, I'm going to try and score. So I'm just trying to bring some electricity to the stadium and help the team."
Stampeders' special teams boost
The Stampeders acquired McAllister to address special teams struggles from last season, particularly in the 2025 West Division Semi-final. His role will begin with Monday's exhibition game against the Saskatchewan Roughriders at McMahon Stadium. Head coach and general manager Dave Dickenson praised McAllister's versatility, noting his work as a receiver and running back during camp, but emphasized keeping him fresh for returns.
"I definitely feel he catches the ball super smooth and clean in the return game," Dickenson said. "But don't overload him, because I find the best returners are those that don't play a lot of offence or defence."
McAllister is prepared to contribute wherever needed, whether as a returner or on offence. "Whatever the team needs," he said. "Whether that's at running back ... you know ... whatever. Wherever I fit in the offence, that'll be my role."
