Lions to start QB Salter vs. Blue Bombers

SURREY – The B.C. Lions will start Kaidon Salter at quarterback for their regular-season finale against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Friday.

Head coach Buck Pierce says he’s giving regular starter Nathan Rourke the night off.

B.C. (10-7) has already locked up second place in the CFL’s West Division and the right to host the divisional semifinal on Oct. 31, while Winnipeg (8-9) needs a victory to secure a post-season berth.

Rourke has put up 4,614 passing yards for the Lions this season with 24 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.

The 28-year-old Canadian has also rushed for 356 yards with three majors.

Salter has already made one start this season, stepping in for the injured Rourke and leading the Lions to a 35-19 road victory in Winnipeg on July 30. He also came in for Rourke in the second half of B.C.’s 32-13 loss to the Stampeders in Calgary on Saturday.

The 23-year-old American has 330 passing yards with one touchdown and one interception this season, his first CFL campaign.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 20, 2026.