Winnipeg Blue Bombers Receiver Warns Free Agents to Avoid Edmonton Elks

The struggles of the Edmonton Elks on the field have been noted over the last two years, but one wide receiver is cautioning players about playing for the Edmonton Elks.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers wide receiver Kenny Lawler was asked to give advice to upcoming free agents when deciding their next destination. Lawler was not shy about his feelings on his former team.

“Don’t go to Edmonton,” Lawler said, while speaking to the media earlier this week.

Lawler and the Blue Bombers are facing the Montreal Alouettes in the Grey Cup on Sunday in Hamilton at Tim Hortons Field.

Lawler has been in the CFL since 2018 starting with the BC Lions before spending three seasons with the Blue Bombers. He returned to Winnipeg after just one season with the Elks last year.

During his lone season in Edmonton, Lawler recorded 58 catches for 894 yards and five touchdowns in 12 games. He would play 12 games before suffering a broken collarbone and needing surgery.

After signing a reported one-year, $305,000 contract with Edmonton in 2022, Lawler decided to return to Winnipeg this offseason. He improved his stats this season with the Blue Bombers with 50 catches for 901 yards and six touchdowns.

Lawler reflected on leaving Winnipeg but returning back after one year.

"I thought the grass could be greener on the other side," he said. "This right here, Winnipeg, is a great place to be."

Edmonton has gone through their struggles as they were able to snap a major sports record 22-game home losing streak this year. The Elks' 4-14 record this year is another reminder of the tough times for a franchise that hasn’t had a winning season since 2017.

There is reason to for optimism in Edmonton. After an 0-9 start, the Elks finished 4-6. A big reason for that was the change at quarterback with Tre Ford.

Montreal Defense Presents 'Challenges' to Winnipeg

You can follow Anthony Miller on Twitter @ByAnthonyMiller.

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