Top Canadians: Running back Calvin McCarty can be a difference maker but his touches could be limited in the presence of imports Arkee Whitlock and Daniel Porter.
Breakout Canadians: Slotback Chris Bauman and defensive tackle Jermaine Reid were signed as free agents after spending their first four CFL seasons in Hamilton. Edmonton hopes that it's not just a coincidence that both were playing the best football of their careers as last season came to an end.
Other Potential Canadian Starters: OG Patrick Kabongo, OC Aaron Fiacconi, OG Kyle Koch, OT Greg Wojt, CB Donovan Alexander
Canadian To Watch: The last several months have been an emotional roller coaster for kicker Derek Schiavone, as veteran kickers Noel Prefontaine, Justin Medlock, Louie Sakoda, and Jamie Boreham have come and gone from Edmonton. Now, his continued employment in Green and Gold depends on how he stacks up against the most recent arrival, perennial all-star Damon Duval.
Top Canadian Rookies: Both 2011 first rounders, offensive lineman Scott Mitchell (if he gets healthy) and receiver Nate Coehoorn, should make solid contributions as the season progresses. The Esks further added to their non-import depth with second round pick, DB Hugo Lopez, and supplemental draft second rounder, defensive tackle Ted Laurent.
In The Pipeline: In an ironic twist, the Eskimos hold the CFL rights to current NFLers DE Israel Idonije, K Shaun Suisham, and LS L.P. Ladouceur...all of whom were drafted by Edmonton GM Eric Tillman when he was running the Ottawa Renegades.