The Edmonton Elks are entering the 2024 CFL season with a unique quarterbacking tandem consisting of McLeod Bethel-Thompson and Tre Ford. Ford emerged as an exciting player in the league last year, showcasing his scrambling abilities and making numerous highlight reels. Despite having the inside track to be the Elks’ starting quarterback, Ford faced competition from veteran Bethel-Thompson, who joined the team in the off-season after a successful stint in the USFL with the New Orleans Breakers. Bethel-Thompson led the Toronto Argonauts to the Grey Cup in 2022 and topped the CFL in passing yards with an impressive 4,731.
As the Elks head into training camp, Bethel-Thompson has been named the starting quarterback, with Ford taking on the role of the backup. However, coach and general manager Chris Jones has implemented a “double-barrelled” approach in the offensive sets, ensuring that both quarterbacks receive equal playing time and opportunities during practice. Bethel-Thompson expressed his admiration for Ford’s potential and emphasized the importance of working together as a team to achieve success. Despite the competition between the two quarterbacks, Bethel-Thompson is focused on giving his best effort and supporting Ford in his development.
The Edmonton Elks struggled in the previous season, finishing with a 4-14 record, but showed improvement when Ford was in the starting role, posting a 4-6 record. Ford’s dual-threat abilities, including 2,069 passing yards and 622 rushing yards with a remarkable 9.4-yard average per carry, highlight his potential as a dynamic quarterback. While Ford possesses impressive skills, Jones identified areas where the young Canadian quarterback needs to improve, such as releasing the ball quickly and not relying solely on his legs to evade pressure. Jones praised both Bethel-Thompson and Ford for their professionalism and willingness to learn from each other.
Drawing from his coaching experience with the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2017, Jones compared the situation with Bethel-Thompson and Ford to that of veteran Kevin Glenn and young talent Brandon Bridge. Both quarterbacks have a mutual respect for each other, with Bethel-Thompson acknowledging Ford’s potential and commitment to learning from the veteran’s experience. Bethel-Thompson admitted to still shaking off the rust and adjusting to his new team, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships with his teammates both on and off the field. Despite his success in the USFL, Bethel-Thompson expressed his happiness to be back in the CFL and contributing to the league’s rich history and bright future.
In their quest for success in the upcoming CFL season, the Edmonton Elks are banking on the partnership between McLeod Bethel-Thompson and Tre Ford to elevate the team’s performance. With both quarterbacks displaying a commitment to teamwork, improvement, and mutual respect, the Elks are embracing the unique dynamics of their quarterbacking tandem. As Bethel-Thompson navigates his return to the CFL and Ford continues to develop his skills, the collaboration between the two quarterbacks offers a promising foundation for the team’s success. The Elks’ coaching staff, led by Chris Jones, is focused on leveraging the strengths of both quarterbacks and creating a competitive and supportive environment for their growth and development.
