Argonauts.ca staff
TORONTO – A cold, wet Sunday marked the official start of the 2015 training camp for the Toronto Argonauts as Argos vets joined the rookies for the first team session. But even the dreary weather couldn’t keep the Argos from an inspired effort on the first of many early mornings for the Argos hopefuls.
Defence ruled for much of the day, as the rainy weather caused problems for quarterbacks and receivers alike. Linebacker Brandon Isaac made a statement in his first practice with the Argonauts since 2013, grabbing an interception during one-on-one drills. Defensive backs AJ Jefferson and Jacob Lacey and linebacker Thomas Miles also got in on the pickoff fun, and each was met by raucous applause from the dozens of defensive onlookers.
NFL Veteran Matthew Ware impressed a handful of spectators with his combination of size and speed, at one point even keeping pace with Argos slotback superstar Chad Owens in one-on-one coverage drills. CFL rookie Daryl Waud also looked strong in his first matchups against veteran offensive linemen, shedding blockers with ease much to the delight of his father and ex-Argonaut David Waud, who took in the session from the stands.
Despite the overall dominance of the defence on Sunday, there were some strong performances turned in by members of the offence. Sophomore Anthony Coombs showed no signs of rust after an extended offseason caused by a season-ending injury just a month into the 2014 season. The former Manitoba Bison displayed a solid burst of speed while running routes, and found the end zone often both in individual matchups and team scrimmages.
Another offensive standout was international rookie Diontae Spencer, whose speed and elusiveness could be measured to some of the premiere receivers and returner in the CFL. The five-foot-nine McNeese State alumnus found his way behind several defensive backs en route to a few beautiful touchdown catches. Spencer and Coombs were singled out following the practice by Owens, who rated them as top performers during Sunday’s session.
The team will take the field again bright and early tomorrow morning. To ensure you don’t miss a second of training camp action, be sure to follow the Argonauts on Twitter @TorontoArgos, and Snapchat at torontoargos. A full training camp schedule can be found at argonauts.ca.