Selected to the country's first all-star team in the last two years, Rouge et Or player from Laval University Aymeric Boutin will have the opportunity to show off his know-how in front of NFL and CFL teams.
Boutin has been invited to attend the College Gridiron Showcase (CGS) January 9-11 in Fort Worth, Texas. This event, which began in 2015, brings together NCAA players and Canadians. Some Canadians have taken advantage of this storefront in recent years to increase their value.
We can think of quarterbacks Taylor Elgersma and Tre Ford, who were drafted to the CFL, and offensive lineman Theo Benedet, who signed with the Chicago Bears as a free agent. Elgersma signed with the Green Bay Packers as a free agent.
“I'm very grateful to have received this opportunity“,” Butin emphasized. “When I [commencé] football, I never thought I would get this opportunity. I want to enjoy the moment 100 percent.”
Butin wants to demonstrate that he can compete with the Americans. “I’m modest, but I shouldn’t be impressed,” he explained. “I shouldn’t come there with big round eyes and a complex.”
A small player by NFL standards.
At 6-foot-3 and 230 pounds, Boutin is considered a small tight end by NFL standards. “Since the standard in the United States is 6-foot-5 and 245 pounds, I will have to showcase my athleticism and speed, which is a big strength of mine,” he explained. “I'll also have to demonstrate that I'm capable of being on the ground. I'll have to demonstrate that I have a place among these guys.”
“I am fully aware that I will not be drafted in the first round of the NFL,” continued Boutin, who is represented by Montreal agent Fred Weinrauch. “I want to try to dominate. CFL teams will be represented as well. It will be a crazy experience. If everything goes well, maybe I'll get some more.” possibilities elsewhere. For now, I'm taking it step by step without thinking further.”
If there is no official game, players will conduct training, participate in individual and team drills and conclude their stay with a controlled simulated match to reduce the risk of injury. One-on-one situations will also be on the menu. The most worthy will receive an interview with the teams present.
He benefits from Anthony Auclair's experience.
Butin is feverishly preparing for this meeting. “After a short break at the end of the season, I've been training very, very hard with Rouge et Or fitness coach Amelie Tremblay. I've also been involved in a few training sessions with Anthony Auclair, who shares [avec moi] his experience playing American football. Felix Garand-Gautier [un ancien des Nordiques de Lionel-Groulx, lui aussi] gives me the opportunity to benefit from my experience in the CFL.”
