Canadian Football League interim commissioner David Braley laughs at a question during a news conference in Edmonton Friday, November 22, 2002. (CP PHOTO/Kevin Frayer)KEVIN FRAYER/The Canadian Press
The Canadian Football League board of governors is expected to approve an expansion draft for a new Ottawa franchise at its Grey Cup meeting in Edmonton on Saturday.
The proposal before the board would mandate that existing teams only be allowed to protect one quarterback, meaning Ottawa will have its choice of every backup. In 2002, when the Ottawa Renegades were born, existing teams were allowed to protect two quarterbacks, one of may reasons why the team had a difficult time competing in its inaugural year.
It is believed that six teams will vote for the proposal. Only Senator David Braley, owner of the B.C. Lions and Toronto Argonauts, is opposed.
The new Ottawa franchise is expected to begin play in 2013.