With 26 special teams tackles to start the season, Alouettes Tyrell Richards is not only dominating the Canadian Football League, but also threatening the team record that Quebec's Hensey Charles has held since 1998.
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Charles wasn't the Alouettes' biggest star 27 years ago either, but his 31 special teams tackles contributed greatly to the team's success. Quarterback Anthony Calvillo was then in his first season in Montreal, and running back Mike Pringle impressed everyone by rushing for over 2,000 yards on the ground. Richards also remains overshadowed by several of his current teammates despite his excellent performance. A humble yet proud competitor, the 27-year-old Ontario resident lives very well this way.
“It's a matter of mentality: I refuse to lose to my opponent when I'm on the field,” Richards explains of his individual statistics. However, I am not yet satisfied and may never be satisfied.”
“Tyrell is a very physical player and technically he does what we ask him to do,” explained coach Byron Archambault, who coordinates special teams. It combines an interesting balance of speed, strength, weight and intensity that is ideal for this aspect of the game.
Tango with Gagne
To further Richards' success, it should also be mentioned that Quebecer Alexandre Gagne regularly plays on the same side of the field as him on special teams. Thus, from the very beginning of this campaign, the two players have developed a great connection to slow down the enemy on their return.
“It’s like dancing the tango,” Gagne said with a laugh. Obviously we encourage each other to make the right plays.”
It must be admitted that Richards and Gagne became excellent dancers of both open and crossed steps. The Quebecer, who set a CFL record with seven special teams tackles in the first game of the season, ranks second in the standings with 23 tackles.
“When you can play 18 games in a season, it obviously helps build momentum,” Gagne commented, recalling that Richards has been plagued by injuries in recent seasons. We feel Tyrell is comfortable and it shows on the field.
First overall pick
Richards' success when he's fit isn't all that surprising. Recall that in the 2022 draft, general manager Danny Maccioscia made a deal to select this Syracuse Orange product to the NCAA first overall. Thus, the Alouettes traded the rights to offensive lineman Carter O'Donnell and the fourth overall pick to the Edmonton Elks.
“I’m so grateful to be healthy,” Richards added. My first three years didn't go the way I wanted. I take care of my body and now enjoy it every time I step on the field.
On Saturday in Ottawa, Richards also risks taking the opportunity to get a little closer to the old record of Quebec's Hensey Charles.
Briefly:
— Among the other team records the Alouettes are in jeopardy for the rest of the regular season: Mexican kicker Jose Maltos Diaz made 51 field goals. He is four points shy of the 55 mark set by Damon Duvall in 2009.
– The 2024 Canadian Football League leaders in special teams tackles were AJ Allen of the Saskatchewan Roughriders and Jack Cassar of the Toronto Argonauts, each with 22 tackles in 18 games. After 16 games, they are already ahead of Tyrell Richards and Alexandre Gagne.
