Searching for continuity in Ticats secondary

There has been a revolving door in the Tiger-Cats defensive secondary for the last few years — injuries and performance necessitating change. But it looks as if stability has arrived.

When it comes to defensive backs — Ticats Defensive Coordinator Orlondo Steinauer has plenty to smile about: “Our competitive nature, our experience, our understanding is head and shoulders above where we were last year at this time.”

Western Mustang alum and Grey Cup champion Craig Butler, is expected to take a leadership role at safety.

Orlondo said: “He’s gonna get people in the right spots. He’s a very effective blitzer and the fact that he plays good special teams, that’s pretty much the reason why he’s here.”

In 2013, Butler recorded 60 tackles — 11 on special teams — three sacks, four interceptions and caused two forced fumbles. On Saturday he’ll get his first chance to strut those skills against Montreal: “So, it’s going to be interesting to see who’s a gamer. Some people are just practice guys. I’m excited to get out there and start playing for real.”

Hard-hitting cornerback Delvin Breaux might not play in the first preseason tilt, but hopes to be ready for the regular season. He missed both the eastern final and Grey Cup games with a shoulder injury that required surgery in the off season: “It was painful, but it was just trying to get over that hill. Once the pain went away I was working out fast.”

Breaux has been playing beside veteran DB Brandon Stewart who joins the Ticats with seven years of experience, both in the backfield and on special teams: “I like to play man to man. I guess that would be one of my strengths, especially playing next to Breaux. He does his thing, like to choke people out, ha ha!”

There are 17 DB’s currently at camp — and the competition continues.