Ottawa Redblacks to start rookie Bryson Barnes versus Toronto Argonauts

OTTAWA — Rookie Bryson Barnes will get the start Friday night when the Ottawa Redblacks (0-16) host the Toronto Argonauts (9-7).

Ryan Dinwiddie, Ottawa’s head coach/GM, made the announcement following Wednesday’s practice.

The expectation is Barnes will also start Ottawa’s regular-season finale in Hamilton on Oct. 24.

Barnes, 25, will become Ottawa’s third starting quarterback this season after veterans Jake Maier and McLeod Bethel-Thompson.

Maier made 12 straight starts before being replaced by Bethel-Thompson.

The six-foot-one, 213-pound Barnes has been used mostly in short-yardage situations this season, having rushed 41 times for 95 yards and nine touchdowns over 14 games.

Barnes has completed 10-of-13 passes this season for 110 yards with an interception.

Barnes played collegiately at Utah and Utah State.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 14, 2026.

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