CFL.ca Staff

EDMONTON -- Just like everyone else, Eskimos running back Hugh Charles was stunned at Sunday's news that Cory Boyd had been released.

Boyd Arrives in Edmonton

CFL.ca has sideline-to-sideline coverage of Cory Boyd's departure from Toronto and arrival in Edmonton. » Video: Cory Boyd Addresses Esks Media » Video: Landry Examines New-Look Argos » Video: Campbell Analyzes Boyd Signing » Charles welcomes boyd with open arms » Kackert ready to take control » Esks, Boyd agrees to verbal deal » Off the Boat: Argos release Boyd » Milanovich looking beyond numbers »Argos no strangers to mid-season change » Video: Milanovich Reaction to Boyd

"I was super surprised," Charles told reporters on Monday. "In the morning I found out through one of our DBs talking about it in the changing room, and I didn't think anything of it, but I knew we needed some depth at running back. Everything happens for a reason so hopefully this is a good fit for Boyd," he added.

Less than 24 hours after Charles and everyone else discovered the shocking news, Boyd and the Eskimos came to a verbal agreement, paving the way for the league's leading rusher to continue his 2012 campaign without missing a single game.

So what does this mean for Charles?

To many, Boyd's arrival in Edmonton creates somewhat of an uncomfotable and crowdy situation. Through six games this season, Charles has registered an impressive 400 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He also sits second on the Eskimos roster in receiving yards with with 269.

Also in the Eskimos backfield is veteran non-import Calvin McCarty, who has ran the ball just 10 times this season for 32 yards and one touchdown.

Charles, however, welcomes the addition, emphasizing the fact that adding someone of Boyd's calibre can only improve the team's chances at winning their first Grey Cup in seven years.

"The more the merrier, I'd say. We just want to win a championship," said Charles. "It's a good thing. Like I said, we need it and I'm sure the coaches will find a way to work him into the rotation."

If the 2012 season has proven anything for Charles, it's that he's more than capable of being an effective asset as a rusher and a receiver - something he hopes will limit the amount of time he spends on the sidelines.

"I'm all about it," said Charles after being asked how he would respond to see his carries total reduced. "Because I don't just run the ball, I can catch the ball, so there are many ways in this offence that I can be utilized."

Much like the man in front of him on the depth chart, McCarty also welcomes the idea of adding a third established player to what is already a dangerous ground game.

"He's a top player in this league and I'm excited and looking forward to working with him," started the 27-year-old McCarty. "I really don't know what happened or what's going on, but he has a clean slate with me," he added.

One of the forgotten pieces in this Eskimo puzzle is quarterback Steven Jyles. Jyles, a former teammate of Boyd's in Toronto, stuck with the theme of being excited to add a player like Boyd.

"Cory is a great player and a great back, so for us to add him to our offence it gives us depth at running back and I'm excited for him to be getting a second chance to showcase his talent."

- With files from Esks.com