Flamboyant defensive lineman Willis coming out of shell at Lions camp
KAMLOOPS, B.C. — Odell Willis is acting more like his old self again.
The veteran defensive lineman began his stay with the B.C. Lions last week talking like a rookie but only a few days into his 10th CFL training camp once more sounded like among the leagues most flamboyant personalities when asked about his five seasons with the Edmonton Eskimos.
Willis is part of a large migration of former Edmonton players acquired by new Lions general manager Ed Hervey, another Eskimos alumnus. The 33-year-old Willis didn’t hold back when asked if he knew why he was part of an off-season, three-team deal that landed him with his fifth West Division squad.
B.C.’s new starting rush end was told he was acquired to bring his leadership to change the locker-room culture with the Lions. He is not sure if that was the same reason he was dealt by Edmonton after talking with Eskimos coach Jason Maas.