BlueBombers.com
VANCOUVER — The BC Lions have hired Markus Howell to be their passing game coordinator and receivers coach, the team announced Thursday.
Working alongside newly-appointed Lions offensive coordinator Jarious Jackson for the past two seasons in Saskatchewan, Howell is set to enter his eighth year in the coaching ranks following a very successful 11-year playing career.
Tutoring dynamic receivers Duron Carter and Naaman Roosevelt along with quarterback sensation Brandon Bridge, Jackson and Howell helped the Riders notch a league-high 35 passing majors in 2017 and the CFL’s third-best passing efficiency rating at 101.1.
“Markus was very high on Jarious’ list of potential coaching candidates and we’re extremely pleased to have him coming aboard,” said Head Coach Wally Buono. “Given their previous history together, Jarious and Markus now have the added benefit of hitting the ground running here in BC which is a significant factor when implementing the passing game into an offence.”
Howell began his coaching career with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2011 and spent five seasons there before moving to Saskatchewan in 2016. The Texas Southern grad was drafted 25th overall by the ‘Bombers in 2000 and also spent time in Ottawa and Calgary in addition to Winnipeg as a receiver, defensive back and returner. He enjoyed a Grey Cup win with Calgary in 2008.
The addition of Howell rounds-out the Leos’ offensive coaching staff for 2018 which also includes offensive line coach Dan Dorazio who enters his 15th season with the club, as well as running backs coach Mike Lionello who returns for his third season.
