The 2016 edition of the Montreal Alouettes defensive line is going to be a nasty, experienced and well-coached crew. Spanning generations X, Y & Z, the Als’ D-line will no doubt produce effective formations, rotation depth and star power. As a collective, the window to terrify is now. They know they need to do this and they will go for every edge.
What to Expect from Alouettes Defensive Line
In the rear view mirror
The Michael Sam extravaganza and the John Bowman benching due to supposed “burn out” gave the impression a gong show was unfolding in La Belle Province. Defensive co-ordinator Noel Thorpe’s off-season was full of speculation regarding his future after the unprofessional and unwanted drama. Luckily for Montreal, all of this is behind them and they can look towards a positive season for the Alouettes defensive line.
Anwar Stewart: Defensive line coach. Entering his second year of coaching duties.
The Alouettes defensive line creator is perched on his branch with the title he deserves. Creating intensity, structure and stability with a smile, Big Stew will keep things tidy and create a balance of good times and accountability.
John Bowman. International – DE. 11th CFL season. 33 years old.
What we know: The CFL All-Star has an infectious laugh and is an occasional Taco Bell connoisseur. Bowman’s controlled aggression, as he calls it, has been his signature whistle-to-whistle vibe.
What we need to find out: Nothing for number seven. So long as he’s smiling, the rest will fall into place. Could this be a career high 20 sack season?
Vaughn Martin. National – DT. First CFL season. 30 years old.
What we know: Drafted by Montreal five years ago, he now has a rock solid NFL career in his pocket. Vaughn believes he’s still got the “it” factor to continue causing havoc.
What we need to find out: How many downs are left in the tank. There is no mistaking his effort and heart for the game, but the years of playing a brutal position takes its toll, even on a goliath like Martin.
Michael Klassen: National – DT. Fourth CFL season. 25 years old.
What we know: “Take nothing for granted, embrace the grind”. After a terrifying injury in Edmonton last season, his mindset is right where it should be – on football.
What we need to find out: Simply put, how’s his neck?
Alan-Michael Cash: International – DT. Fifth CFL season. 28 years old.
What we know: Coming off back-to-back successful seasons, Cash is good to go. Hitting his prime and set beside Martin, this dynamic duo will make every lineman fear the bull rush.
What we need to find out: How high can Cash soar? Can coach Stewart push him along to great heights?
Gabe Knapton: International – DE. Third CFL season. 27 years old.
What we know: Proving himself more than just a depth player last season, Knapton was second in sacks on the Alouettes, with 11. When thrown into the mix he proves to be the jackknife of the Alouettes defensive line. Should anyone go down, he’ll jump on the opportunity to take the field.
What we need to find out: Can he continue his numbers from last year? If so, will there be chatter of putting him among the CFL East All-Star list? Does Thorpe trust him enough to let him run around like the painted faced tribal warrior he is? Or will his role be defined to fit the system?
Jesse Joseph: National – DT. First CFL season. 27 years old.
What we know: He has a high character and absolute perseverance. Joseph’s story reads like a chapter from Marc Trestman‘s book. He’s the largest man on a snowboard that Mont Tremblant has had grace the slopes, so his stance and technique will be up to par.
What we need to find out: Is he a Jim Popp diamond in the rough? Will he fight tooth and nail for a spot on the Alouettes defensive line? Is Joseph a true Phoenix rising?
Aaron Lavarias: International – DE. Fourth CFL season. 28 years old.
What we know: Athleticism; check. Between the ears; check. He is a high end depth player who takes after Teddy Bruschi.
What we need to find out: In what role will Thorpe & Stewart deploy him?
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