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One of the strengths of the Ottawa Redblacks defence is a talented and deep group of linebackers.

Between the WILL (weakside) and MIKE (middle) linebacker spots, the Redblacks have four guys — Kevin Brown, Avery Williams, Kyries Hebert and Chris Ackie — who can each play at a high level. The thing is, with two spots for four players, they can’t all be on the field at the same time.

“It’s always tough to keep everybody happy,” said Redblacks defensive co-ordinator Noel Thorpe. “You have to do what’s best for the defence and what’s best for us as a team. Those guys are going to contribute not only on defence, but on special teams. It’s also a function of having an understanding of what your role is in the defence. Each guy, no matter who you are, is going to contribute.

“We obviously have guys back there who can do a number of different things for us. We like to keep them fresh. They all bring a certain skill set. Avery Williams has a certain skill set, Ky has a certain skill set, Kevin does … then you add Chris Ackie to the mix. We’re able to put guys in different positions, give the offence different looks.”