The BC Lions ushered in a significant organizational shift on Wednesday, announcing two major changes to their football operations team. Head Coach and Co-General Manager Rick Campbell was relieved of his duties, while Ryan Rigmaiden was promoted to General Manager. In addition, Neil McEvoy, who previously shared the GM role, was elevated to President of Football Operations.
Rick Campbell’s tenure with the Lions began in 2020, but the season was canceled due to the pandemic. Over the next four years, Campbell made strides in improving the team’s performance. Notable seasons included back-to-back 12-6 records in 2022 and 2023, though both campaigns ended in losses in the Western Final to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Expectations for 2024 were high, especially as the Lions hosted the Grey Cup, but a 9-9 record and a first-round playoff exit to the Saskatchewan Roughriders ultimately led to Campbell’s dismissal.
Despite the disappointing end to his time with BC, Campbell’s leadership helped rebuild the franchise’s competitiveness. According to reports, Campbell has already garnered interest from the Edmonton Elks, who are exploring him as a candidate for their vacant head coaching position.
The Lions are now looking to the future under Rigmaiden, who steps into the General Manager role after serving as Assistant GM and Director of Player Personnel. With deep experience in scouting and roster construction, Rigmaiden is tasked with taking the Lions to the next level.
At the same time, the Lions revealed plans to trade quarterback Vernon Adams Jr., who started the 2024 season strong before injuries derailed his momentum. Adams posted 2,395 passing yards and 14 touchdowns over the first seven games of the season, but the Lions are looking to shed his contract as they reconfigure their roster for 2025.
Finding a trade partner may be challenging due to a crowded quarterback market, with many high-level players entering free agency this offseason. Nevertheless, Rigmaiden is optimistic about Adams’ value, describing him as a “tremendous quarterback and leader.”
The Lions’ ownership, led by Amar Doman, has invested heavily in the team, including exceeding the salary cap to re-sign key players like Nathan Rourke and Mathieu Betts. These moves demonstrate the franchise’s commitment to contending for the Grey Cup annually.
The upcoming offseason will be pivotal as the Lions look to capitalize on their resources and restructure the team to compete at the highest level. With new leadership and a strong foundation, the Lions aim to turn their Grey Cup ambitions into reality.