Training Camp Notebook: James Morgan’s preparation sets him apart
Wednesday was the final full practice session of training camp for the Alouettes in 2025. Head coach Jason Maas blew the final whistle signaling the end of practice at 12:11pm. The assembled media, who each asked to speak to James Morgan, waited until 1:05pm to speak to the Als quarterback because he was doing extra work on the field. That’s something the second-year pivot has done every day this camp.
“No one prepares better than James,” Maas said of Morgan. “I’ve been around this football league for 25 years and I’ve been around some great quarterbacks, and I get to coach with one of them that was the best I ever saw at it (Anthony Calvillo). That guy (Morgan) prepares like a pro every single day. He’s so consistent with it and he doesn’t only prepare himself but also our second and third ground of receivers and does a walkthrough with them every single morning.”
James Morgan – PHOTO: Pascal Ratthe
The 28-year-old is technically the fourth quarterback on the depth chart behind Davis Alexander, McLeod Bethel-Thompson and Caleb Evans which means he didn’t get as many reps in practice. But Morgan makes sure the reps he does get end up counting.
During last Saturday’s game against the Redblacks, Morgan probably orchestrated the best drive of the day for the Alouettes. It resulted in a turnover on downs, but it lasted 13 plays and included two third down conversions that came on passes by Morgan. Now, he’ll get another chance to prove himself all over again in Ottawa on Friday.
“It’s a great opportunity,” Morgan, who grew up in Wisconsin and idolized Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers, said. “Any time you get an opportunity, you want to take it and run with it. I’m going to go out there and execute. I don’t want to change my routine with the preparation I put in so far.”
Last year, Morgan had a solid showing in the team’s second preseason game which was also played in Ottawa. He earned a practice roster spot in part because of that performance. This year, another solid performance would go a long way in securing a spot with the team.
One thing he didn’t do at all last year was perform quarterback sneaks. If Evans (knee) can’t start the year on the active roster, that could be a way for Morgan to suit up and contribute in a tangible way.
NOTES:
Maas confirmed that Tyson Philpot won’t play in the preseason finale. He will make his 2025 debut in the home opener on June 6 against the Toronto Argonauts.
Maas also mentioned that Evans will start on Friday night if the doctors will clear him in time for the game. If Evans starts, he’ll play most of the game while Morgan and Jonathan Senecal will see action in the second half. If Evans can’t play, Bethel-Thompson will get a few drives in the first half.
The Alouettes also announced that they have signed National kicker Philippe Boyer. They have released receiver Omarion Dollison.
