Four months ago, Jameer Thurman walked into Stampeders camp as a bright-eyed rookie.

Fast-forward to the present day, he’s now an established CFL starter.

The 22-year-old linebacker got his shot in the starting lineup on Aug. 3 due to injuries and hasn’t given up that spot since.

It’s been a journey of determination and hard work that has paid off for the rookie.

“I’ve been working my entire life for this opportunity,” said the 6-foot, 225-lb., Chicago native. “My family has done so much for me and I‘m looking forward to representing them for the rest of the season.

“It took a lot of hard work and studying to get to this point. I’m thankful to be where I am.”

Thurman has started nine games at linebacker but has seen action in a total of 15 tilts.

So far this season, he has racked up 42 defensive tackles, 12 special-teams tackles, two sacks and one interception.

Photo by David Moll

Defensive coordinator DeVone Claybrooks has been impressed with Thurman, especially his ability to quickly pick up on plays and schemes.

“He’s been a great find for us who has been able to flourish,” Claybrooks said. “His football IQ and ability to learn the CFL style of game has improved tremendously since Day 1.”

On the heels of that first start against the Toronto Argonauts back in August, the expectations of him were made crystal clear.

“When you cross the white line, you are a starter,” Claybrooks said. “We expected him to play to a certain standard we have set for everyone and he did just that.”

Thurman rose to the challenge against the Argos, recording an interception, seven defensive tackles and two special-teams tackles.

“It was exciting and fun as a rookie the first time stepping onto the field as a starter,” Thurman said. “As a professional, I was dialed in. Since then, I haven’t looked too far ahead and take it each game at a time to get better.”

Thurman knows the pressure is on him to keep his starting spot.

And he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I just have to be consistent and make the big plays the team needs me to make,” he said. “There’s still a lot of games and I’m looking forward to being an integral part of the defence.”