As the first week of the 2024 training camp for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats concludes, it’s clear that head coach Scott Milanovich is set to make a significant impact in his debut season in Hamilton. This week, the Tiger-Cats have made several personnel moves, reflecting Milanovich’s strategic vision to revamp key position groups, including the defense, wide receivers, offensive line, and backfield, to enhance performance and competitiveness.
Defensively, the Tiger-Cats have focused on injecting younger talent into critical positions, providing new additions the chance to make explosive plays. Offensively, Milanovich released wide receiver Terry Godwin, explaining that the decision was part of an effort to bring in taller and more physical players on the perimeter. The offensive line, benefiting from continuity among familiar faces, contrasts with previous seasons where injuries led to a patchwork lineup.
Tiger-Cats fans eagerly anticipate seeing the team’s new look at the Black and Gold game at McMaster University on Sunday, May 19th, at 7 pm. This event, the first Black and Gold game since 2013, will showcase the adjustments made during the first week of training camp. The roster has been bolstered by the addition of National linebacker Trevor Hoyte and National defensive lineman Curtis Woodmansey, adding to the excitement.
**Newest Additions to the Tiger-Cats Roster**
Linebacker Trevor Hoyte, a 6’2″, 220-pound native of Gatineau, Ontario, played U Sports football at Carleton and was drafted by the Toronto Argonauts in the 4th round of the 2021 CFL Draft. From 2021 to 2023, Hoyte played 49 games for the Argonauts, recording 66 total tackles, including 31 special teams tackles; during the 2023 season, Hoyte played in 18 games, registering 18 total tackles.
Defensive lineman Curtis Woodmansey, joining his brother Coulter Woodmansey on the Tiger-Cats roster, aims to secure a spot on the 2024 roster. The 6’3″, 290-pound native of Toronto, Ontario, played four seasons of U Sports football at the University of Guelph. In his last season at Guelph, he played nine games, recording 11 tackles and a quarterback sack.
**Early Exits from Training Camp**
This week, the Tiger-Cats cut several players during the initial phases of roster cuts in training camp. While they have signed several 2024 draft picks, they have also faced early injuries. National linebacker Enock Makonzo has been added to the Six-Game injured list, and wide receiver Justin McGriff was released after suffering a torn ACL. Additionally, the team has suspended American linebacker DQ Thomas.
