10 Possible Candidates to Become the Next Ottawa Redblacks Head Coach
The Ottawa Redblacks are searching for a new head coach after parting ways with Bob Dyce, who spent just over three years in charge.
Patience is wearing thin in the nation’s capital, as the team has reached the CFL playoffs only once in the last six seasons. That puts pressure on general manager Shawn Burke — expected to return in 2026 — to make the right hire this time around.
Here are 10 candidates who could be in contention for the Redblacks’ top job:
1. Byron Archambault
At just 35, Archambault has built an impressive résumé. A former linebacker for the Université de Montréal, he has served as the Alouettes’ special teams coordinator, linebackers coach, and currently as their director of player personnel since 2021. Young, bilingual, and versatile, Archambault could bring a modern touch to Ottawa’s rebuild.
2. Josh Bell
The Los Angeles-born coach is in his eighth CFL season, now working as the pass game coordinator and defensive backs coach with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. A trusted lieutenant of Corey Mace, Bell has been part of successful staffs in Calgary, Toronto, and Regina. The former CFL defensive back — an All-West selection in 2015 — has coaching experience and player credibility to match.
3. Henry Burris
A legend in Ottawa, Burris led the Redblacks to their 2016 Grey Cup triumph, the city’s first in four decades. The 50-year-old now serves as co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Florida A&M, where his son, Armand, plays receiver. With past NFL coaching stints with the Bears, Jaguars, and Rams, Burris’s return would be a popular, emotional choice for fans.
4. Rick Campbell
The son of CFL icon Hugh Campbell, Rick was Ottawa’s first-ever head coach, leading them for six seasons and guiding them to the 2016 Grey Cup. Now the club’s special teams coordinator, Campbell has over 170 CFL games as a head coach with Ottawa and the B.C. Lions. His familiarity with the franchise and proven success make him an obvious candidate.
5. Pat DelMonaco
A long-time member of the Calgary Stampeders, DelMonaco has worked as an offensive line coach since 2010 and became offensive coordinator in 2021. With two Grey Cup titles and a reputation for toughness and discipline, the 44-year-old could give Ottawa the physical edge it’s been missing.
6. Ryan Dinwiddie
Currently head coach of the Toronto Argonauts, Dinwiddie has built an impressive 51-35 record, winning two Grey Cups and a Coach of the Year award. Though under contract through 2026, Ottawa could try to lure him with a major leadership opportunity. A long shot, but a bold one.
7. Brent Monson
The Hamilton native made waves in his first season as defensive coordinator for the Tiger-Cats, leading the league in takeaways. With 16 years’ experience at Calgary — including five as DC — and two Grey Cup rings, Monson’s steady rise shows he’s paid his dues and earned his shot.
8. Marc Mueller
At 36, Mueller is one of the league’s most promising offensive minds. As the Roughriders’ offensive coordinator, he’s helped veteran quarterback Trevor Harris thrive late in his career. The grandson of CFL great Ron Lancaster, Mueller’s pedigree and innovative play-calling make him a strong candidate for Ottawa’s future.
9. Mike O’Shea
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers boss is a proven winner with 117 victories, five Grey Cup appearances, and two championships over 11 seasons. While unlikely to leave Winnipeg, he’s currently out of contract after this year — meaning Ottawa could make a bold pitch to bring the Hall of Famer home to Ontario.
10. Orlondo Steinauer
A former Hamilton head coach and now president of football operations, Steinauer has deep ties to Redblacks GM Shawn Burke from their eight years together with the Tiger-Cats. The 52-year-old posted a 39-29 coaching record, winning the East Division and Coach of the Year in 2019. A respected leader and defensive strategist, he’d bring instant credibility.
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