TILLMAN LIKES QUARTERBACK PROSPECTS

Dalton Bell


REGINA -- The future appears to be bright for the Saskatchewan Roughriders at quarterback.



The re-signing of quarterback Darian Durant is just the tip of the iceberg regarding promising young pivots with the Roughriders. The Riders now have four import quarterbacks — Durant, Steven Jyles, Dalton Bell and Draw Tate — under contract for the 2009 season. Tillman said Monday that the Riders also have 10 quarterbacks on their 35-man negotiation list.



Adding quarterbacks to the list was one of Tillman’s goals when he took over as the Riders’ general manager midway through the 2006 season.



“When I arrived in 2006, this club certainly had some significant strengths,’’ Tillman said. “Future planning at quarterback — with only one prospect on the negotiation list at that time — wasn't one of them.’’



The Riders have been able to build that list with some significant additions. The list includes University of Missouri’s Chase Daniel, who was a Heisman Trophy candidate in 2007, Todd Reesing (University of Kansas) and C.J. Bacher of Northwestern University. Daniel and Bacher recently completed their senior seasons. Reesing will be a senior next season.



There are also Russell Wilson (North Carolina State) and Kellen Moore (Boise State), who recently completed strong freshman seasons.



“We’re well-positioned for a high level of play at the most important position on the field over the next eight to 10 years, if not longer,’’ said Tillman. “We’re positioned for future success at quarterback with a myriad of legitimate options which could unfold.’’



The immediate future involves the four quarterbacks with the Riders in 2009. Durant knows they are young but feels they have an opportunity to accomplish something in the CFL despite their youth.



“If we can get established, we have a chance to do something that has never been done in the CFL,’’ said Durant. “We’re all in our mid-20s and it’s a good opportunity for us.’’
The Riders didn’t have a specific coach assigned to the quarterbacks in 2008. Given the youth of the quarterbacks, it has been suggested that head coach Ken Miller add that position to his staff.



Tillman has discussed that option with Miller and both agree that it would have to be the right fit. Miller, offensive co-ordinator Paul LaPolice and running backs coach Jamie Barresi have experience with that position in their roles so the Riders will likely maintain the status quo.



“I have hired Kenny and I will not force concepts, staff members or players on him,’’ Tillman said. “He's certainly made some decisions we didn’t agree on in the past, but that’s simply part of this business. I offer my advice on many things which I believe are to our collective betterment, but if Kenny’s going to be held accountable, it’s best to not force things that may not be to his liking.’’
mmccormick@leaderpost.canwest.com