By Max Campbell
Stampeders.com
First-year linebacker Maleki Harris will be making his long-awaited debut on Saturday in Regina, and the rookie can’t wait to finally take the field in the professional ranks.
Recently activated from the Stampeders’ practice roster, Harris was originally signed by the Red and White back on May 25. Released by the club on Day 7 of training camp, the six-foot-one, 210 lb. defender re-signed with Calgary on June 25.
“It’ll be big,” said the former South Alabama Jaguar of finally cracking the lineup. “This is something you dream about your life playing professional sports, playing professional football. It would be a big opportunity and I hope I can take full advantage of it.”
Not only has the coaching staff been pleased with his progress on the practice field, but Tuesday’s release of Jasper Simmons ultimately allowed Harris to move up the depth chart at last.
“It’s a tough business and it’s sad to see something happen like that, but it’s ‘next man up’ and it’s an opportunity for me,” the 22-year-old commented.
Although listed as a linebacker, Harris is projected to primarily contribute on Mark Kilam’s special-teams unit as defensive snaps may be few and far between with veteran standouts Juwan Simpson and Deron Mayo occupying the middle.
“I will more than likely be on special teams, but I feel like I can go out there and do my job and do anything to help the team win,” offered No. 51. “But I’ll definitely play a big part on special teams.”
Lining up against the winless Saskatchewan Roughriders will not alter the approach of Harris as he is preparing for a skilled and talented team capable of upsetting the Stamps. Coming off a bye week, the Riders will be looking for a fresh start beginning with a victory, and Harris is up for the challenge.
“They’re going to be riled up and they’re 0-7 so they’re playing with nothing to lose,” the Cordova, Ala., native stated. “Their backs are against the wall and you never know what they’re going to do, so we have to be very prepared. They have one of the best offences in the league despite their record, so we definitely have to be prepared in all three phases of our team.”
Yet to make an appearance on game day but no stranger to the Stampeder playbook, Harris believes his biggest obstacle will be exercising mental toughness rather than overcoming the physical demands of CFL football.
“I feel like I’m definitely prepared,” remarked the 2014 second-team all-Sun Belt honouree. “I know when I get out there I’m going to be a little anxious, but that just comes with the first-game jitters. I feel like once I get going, everything will be alright.”