Redblacks, HC Rick Campbell part ways

The Ottawa Redblacks announced Monday that the team and head coach Rick Campbell have decided to part ways following a CFL-worst 3-15 season.

"Campbell informed the club that he felt he could not continue as head coach and the club respects his decision," the team's statement read.

"I would like to thank the Ottawa Redblacks for the last six seasons in this great city," Campbell said in a statement. "I'd also like to thank (general manager) Marcel (Desjardins) for entrusting me with my first CFL head coaching opportunity. Leaving the Redblacks was a difficult decision to come to but, at the end of the day, the future of the organization is bigger than any one person and I believe it is in the best interest of the team for me to move on."

The 48-year-old had one year remaining on his contract. He was reportedly not satisfied with his working relationship with Desjardins and told the team he would not return if the executive remained, according to TSN's David William Naylor.

Campbell was hired as the first head coach in Redblacks history in 2014. After winning just two games during his first season at the helm, he led Ottawa to four straight playoff appearances and three East Division titles from 2015 to 2018.

Ottawa won the Grey Cup in 2016 and made two more appearances in the championship game, including last season's loss to the Calgary Stampeders.

The Redblacks kicked off the 2019 campaign with a 2-0 record but lost 15 of their final 16 games, as injuries and inconsistencies at quarterback were a constant problem.