Calgary Stampeders President and General Manager John Hufnagel spent time today to speak with the media in advance of CFL Free Agency opening up at 10 a.m. MT on Tuesday.

Hufnagel on acquiring OL Sean McEwen:

“It was something that we really went after. We wanted to try and make sure that we had enough bodies at the centre position. With attaining Sean and Justin Lawrence in the fold, we’re very comfortable that it will be manned by a Canadian.”

On the new CFL Free Agency Negotiation Window:

“I enjoyed it. It allowed us to do it in a more timely manner, so to speak, and be a little bit more organized. Had the ability to speak with the players if we chose to do so and let them know what our thoughts were. It’s not as hectic as trying to get everything done right after twelve o’clock on Tuesday.”

On the expected activity tomorrow:

“I think that we’ll have more action tomorrow than what you’d normally expect from our organization.”

On shopping for American receivers:

“Not in this free agency period, no. Obviously, we do our work in the off-season to try and bring some new young guys in and hopefully one or two of them will develop and add depth to our roster.”

On finding a back-up quarterback:

“It’s something where we are hoping that Montell [Cozart] re-signs, but we’re also looking at other options … We don’t really have a lot of money to spend on someone that has a whole lot of experience in the league, so we’ll bring some young guys in and hope they develop quickly.”

On filling the punter position:

“We’re looking at who’s available during free agency and then in the draft. It’s something that we would like to get someone signed on the dotted line sooner than later.”