Highlights:

• Calgary Stampeders sign former NFL quarterback P.J. Walker to practice roster
• Walker led XFL’s Houston Roughnecks to 5-0 record in 2020 before league shutdown
• Played 21 NFL games from 2020-2023 with Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns

The Calgary Stampeders have added quarterback P.J. Walker to their practice roster, bringing NFL experience to their quarterback room. Walker, 29, played 21 NFL games from 2020 to 2023, making nine starts for the Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns. He completed 185 of 339 passes for 2,135 yards and six touchdowns in the NFL, while also rushing 31 times for 80 yards.

Walker’s professional career began after going undrafted in 2017. He spent three years on the Indianapolis Colts’ practice squad before joining the XFL in 2020. As quarterback for the Houston Roughnecks, Walker led the league with 1,338 passing yards and 15 touchdowns in five games before the season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He was considered by fans to be the XFL MVP and got the nickname MVPJ.

The addition of Walker comes at a time when Stampeders starting quarterback Jake Maier has struggled with consistency. Maier was benched for one game earlier this season as Calgary has been eliminated from playoff contention for the first time since 2004. While it’s unlikely Walker will see game action this season as he learns the Canadian game, his signing could signal competition for the starting role in 2025. It could also signal his none interest in playing in the UFL for the 2025 season.

Walker’s college career at Temple University was notable. He played 49 games over four years, making 47 starts. Walker finished as Temple’s all-time leader in completions (830), passing yards (10,668), and touchdown passes (74). He led the Owls to multiple bowl game appearances and was named Most Outstanding Player in the 2016 American Athletic Conference championship game.

The Stampeders’ quarterback depth chart also includes Tommy Stevens, primarily used in short-yardage situations, and Matt Shiltz, who made an appearance in Calgary’s recent 32-15 loss to the BC Lions. With three weeks remaining in the CFL regular season, Walker will have time to acclimate to the Canadian game and potentially compete for playing time in 2025.

Calgary’s next game is a Week 19 matchup against the Edmonton Elks at home. While playoff hopes are dashed, the Stampeders will look to finish the season strong and evaluate talent for the future. The addition of Walker to the practice roster provides intriguing options for the team’s quarterback situation moving forward.