EDMONTON — On Sunday, the Edmonton Eskimos surprised some by releasing five-year veteran Corbin Sharun.
The Edmonton born and raised player was drafted by the Eskimos in 2010 and has played for the team since then. He totalled 77 special teams tackles in his time with the green and gold.
“Unfortunately in professional football we have to make decisions that are tough like that,” said head coach Chris Jones. “I love the kid, he knows that; he loves the organization. But right now that was the decision that we had to make.”
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The Eskimos’ third-round pick at this year’s draft, Adam Konar, could be a factor behind the tough decision. The son of former B.C. Lions Linebacker Kevin Konar made his presence felt early in the game Saturday with some big hits. He also fit in well on special teams.
“It didn’t take long for him to jump out as a guy that felt comfortable playing the game and the game wasn’t too big for him,” said Jones. “I like the fact that you could communicate with him on the field, even as the play was about to happen.
“He was very calm. His demeanour was very calm, and when the ball was snapped he played fast.”
Konar brought big energy in the Eskimos secondary.
“I just enjoy being out there, so when I’m out there I’m going to take advantage of it,” said the 21-year-old.
Another player that has people talking is rookie Quarterback James Franklin. The 23-year-old was outstanding in his debut, punching in two touchdowns and going 10 of 17 for 159 yards.
“He’s a very calm guy,” said Jones. “He’s got that quarterback swagger to him.”
“My dad always taught me to have a calm demeanour no matter what,” said Franklin.
The talk around Eskimos camp is that Franklin is going to make decisions very difficult for the coaching staff. Veteran pivot Matt Nichols played early in the game and looked strong, going seven of nine.
Another veteran, Justin Goltz, came in late in the game and threw one touchdown pass.
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Jones says that while Franklin looked great, he needs to see more reps in different situations.
“I’m sure he’ll be able to handle it, but let’s not put the cart before the horse.”
Franklin has had a chance to go over game tape and says he could improve on a few reads, but was pleased with his first CFL performance. The one thing in particular he talked about working on against the Lions on Friday in Vancouver.
“Staying in the pocket a little bit more when things start to get cluttered up front.
“There were a couple of throws down field that I missed because I took my eyes off the field to the guys in front me and then I tried to scramble out so I think that’s probably the biggest thing I need to work on.”
The Eskimos training camp continues at Fuhr Sports Park in Spruce Grove ahead of the Eskimos second and final pre-season game Friday against the Lions.
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