Eskimos release backup QB O’Brien

EDMONTON — The Edmonton Eskimos have released international quarterback Danny O’Brien, the team announced Sunday.

The news comes after the team lost its pre-season finale 20-3 to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Friday at IG Field.

O’Brien was battling to be the team’s primary backup to starter Trevor Harris. He completed 15 of 26 passes for 93 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions in two pre-season contests.

Over two seasons with the Green and Gold, O’Brien appeared in 32 games and primarily served as the club’s place holder and backup quarterback.

The move opens the door for Logan Kilgore to become the Eskimos’ primary backup. Kilgore played extensively this pre-season after missing a year of football in 2018. However, he comes with a knowledge of Maas’ system from his time in Toronto.

After becoming the first team to wrap up their pre-season, the Eskimos likely still have some tough roster decisions to make before the team’s season-opener on June 14 vs. Montreal.