Riders coaching staff expecting breakout season from former U of S Huskie
CTV
Former University of Saskatchewan Huskies defensive back Nelson Lokombo is coming into his third CFL season with some added expectations.
Former University of Saskatchewan Huskies defensive back Nelson Lokombo is coming into his third CFL season with some added expectations.
However, head coach Craig Dickenson sees the 24-year-old as a CFL sophomore at this point in his career.
"It's really his second year. Second year [is when] we should see a spike. Spike in terms of production, spike in terms of growth and spike in terms of leadership. So far, so good. He's had a good camp," Dickenson said Monday following the Riders training camp session.
Lokombo is only considered a second-year player because he was one of four players who tore their Achilles tendons before the first day of training camp during a player-only workout in 2021.
He recovered in time for camp last year, but still wasn't at his accustomed playing level following a year of rehab.
"I got my feet wet last year," Lokombo said. "[I] played in a couple of games, started a couple games and really got a feel for it. So yeah, I'm feeling good right now for my third year.
Without any restrictions, Lokombo is expected to be a contributor on defence this season and show the versatility which helped make him a second overall pick in the 2021 CFL Draft.