As the first week of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats’ 2024 training camp wraps up, it’s clear that head coach Scott Milanovich is set to make a notable impact in his first season. Throughout this week, the Tiger-Cats have made several personnel changes, reflecting Milanovich’s strategic approach to revamping key positions, including the defensive lineup, wide receiver corps, and the offensive line and backfield, to boost overall performance and competitiveness.
Defensively, the Tiger-Cats have brought in younger talent for key roles, providing opportunities for new players to make significant plays. On offense, Milanovich released wide receiver Terry Godwin, citing a need for taller and more physical players on the perimeter. The offensive line benefits from increased continuity, with familiar faces leading the group, unlike previous seasons marked by frequent injuries.
Tiger-Cats fans eagerly await the Black and Gold game at McMaster University on Sunday, May 19th, at 7 pm. This event, the first since 2013, will showcase the team’s new dynamics from the first week of training camp. The roster has been strengthened with the addition of National linebacker Trevor Hoyte and National defensive lineman Curtis Woodmansey, heightening anticipation for the game.
New 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. Over three seasons with the Argonauts, Hoyte played in 49 games, recording 66 total tackles, including 31 special teams tackles; in 2023, he played in 18 games, tallying 18 total tackles.
Defensive lineman Curtis Woodmansey joins his brother Coulter Woodmansey on the Tiger-Cats roster, aiming to secure a spot for 2024. Curtis, a 6’3″, 290-pound native of Toronto, Ontario, played four seasons of U Sports football at the University of Guelph. In his final season at Guelph, he played in nine games, recording 11 tackles and a quarterback sack.
Early Exits from Training Camp
This week saw several players cut during the initial phases of roster reductions. Despite signing several 2024 draft picks, the team has faced early injuries. Newly signed National linebacker Enock Makonzo was added to the Six-Game injured list, and wide receiver Justin McGriff was released after suffering a torn ACL. Additionally, American linebacker DQ Thomas has been suspended by the team.
