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  • Ottawa Redblacks’ RB Devonte Williams Announces Retirement from CFL

    Ottawa Redblacks’ RB Devonte Williams Announces Retirement from CFL

    The Canadian Football League (CFL) is losing one of its bright lights as Ottawa Redblacks’ running back Devonte Williams has hung up his cleats. The 28 year old made the decision after dealing with injuries and reflecting on his football journey.

    A Career Cut Short by Injury

    Williams’ retirement comes after a tough year where he was sidelined with a torn Achilles tendon during training last off-season. He missed the entire 2024 season and fans didn’t get to see him build on his 2023 season. He was known for his speed and versatility, he leaves behind a legacy of hard work and grit despite the sport taking a toll on his body.

    A Breakout Season to Remember

    In 2023, Williams proved he was a top CFL running back. 5’9” 190 pounds, he rushed 183 times for 1003 yards, 5.5 yards per carry, 3 touchdowns. He wasn’t just a ground game guy, he also showed off his receiving skills, 37 receptions for 327 yards. He was nominated for Ottawa Redblacks Most Outstanding Player after his first full season as a starter in the three down league. Played in 15 games and became a fan favourite and a key part of the Redblacks’ offence.

    From Training Camp to CFL Star

    Before joining the Redblacks, Williams played at Southeastern Louisiana University, where he was a dynamic playmaker. In 2021, he attended training camp with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers but signed with Ottawa before the 2022 season.

    In his first year with the Redblacks, he shared the starting role with William Powell. Despite splitting carries, he still rushed 90 times for 454 yards and 27 receptions for 327 yards in 8 games. He showed he could be a runner and a receiver, which hinted at the big season to come in 2023.

    A Legacy Beyond the Numbers

    Born in Columbia, Maryland, Williams brought toughness and heart to every snap he played. Though his career was shorter than many thought it would be, his impact on the field and in the locker room won’t be forgotten. His teammates and coaches loved his work ethic and resilience, two qualities that defined his CFL career.

  • Will Trevor Harris Trade the Field for the Booth? TSN Analyst Role Sparks Buzz

    Will Trevor Harris Trade the Field for the Booth? TSN Analyst Role Sparks Buzz

    CFL veteran quarterback Trevor Harris is already thinking about life after football—and it might just involve a microphone. The soon to be 39 year old recently expressed interest in being a colour analyst for TSN when his playing days are over.

    Trevor Harris Open to Calling Games for TSN

    When asked about retirement Harris said he’s taking it one year at a time.

    “If I play well, I feel good enough and I feel like we’ve got more to accomplish or there’s still that itch that has never gone away then I’ll keep going,” Harris said. “But it’s one year at a time.”

    Despite his long and storied career Harris is still passionate about the game. But he’s also aware of the inevitable and is preparing for what’s next.

    Harris’ Love for Football and Faith

    Harris loves football and credits the sport for allowing him to live out his faith in Jesus Christ.

    “I love bringing men together to accomplish one goal. I love the locker room, joking with one another, I think football fits me. It’s a good way for me to practice my authentic faith in Jesus and be who I am,” he said.

    At 39 years old, Harris has played in nearly every system the CFL has to offer. He’s got experience so he thinks he could do broadcasting.

    “I’ve played in more systems than [Bo Levi Mitchell], unfortunately. I’ve played in all the systems. I can tell you what all quarterbacks are looking at and what they should have done. Maybe I’d be all right at it,” Harris joked.

    Inspired by Bo Levi Mitchell’s Success

    Harris points to former CFL quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell as an example of how players can thrive in broadcasting after their playing careers. Mitchell is a regular on TSN, working alongside Scott Milanovich and others.

    “He’s in a good situation there with Scott [Milanovich] and Hamilton. Shoot, he could play a long time still. We’ll see how it goes. Just one year at a time,” Harris said.

    Mitchell’s success in the booth has shown Harris that there’s room for passionate, knowledgeable voices to help the league grow through media.

    Helping the CFL Grow Through Media

    Harris believes being open and articulate with reporters is part of his job as a player. He sees media as an opportunity to promote the CFL and show its greatness.

    “After a game, win, loss, draw, whatever it is, you’ve got to answer the tough questions,” Harris said. “Help be able to push great things for this league. Show how great this league is because it’s a tremendous football league.”

    With the CFL’s broadcast rights contract with Bell Media running through 2026, Harris wants to position himself as a valuable voice for the network—or any platform—when the time comes.

  • Montreal Alouettes Kicker David Côté Announces Retirement from CFL

    Montreal Alouettes Kicker David Côté Announces Retirement from CFL

    After four great seasons with the Montreal Alouettes, Quebecer David Côté has announced his retirement from the Canadian Football League (CFL). The 28-year-old is still recovering from a thigh injury he suffered in 2024 and is now focusing on his teaching career.

    A Childhood Dream Realized

    For David Côté, playing in the pros was more than a job, it was a childhood dream. “I lived the childhood dream when I put on the Alouettes jersey,” Côté said in a statement. “I will never forget my seasons and the fun with my teammates during our Grey Cup win in 2023. I’m leaving with no regrets.”

    Drafted 45th overall in the 5th round in 2021, Côté made a name for himself quickly. He won the team’s Rookie of the Year award that same year and showed his talent early on. 6’4” and 223 lbs, Côté was a big and accurate kicker.

    A Career of Consistency and Clutch

    Throughout his 52-game career, all with the Alouettes, Côté was consistent. In the regular season he was 125/154 on field goals (81.2%) and 108/114 on converts. His best performance came in the 2023 Grey Cup run where he made 5 field goals in the playoffs and had strong kickoffs and contributed to the Als’ championship win.

    Last season, despite playing only 4 games due to injury, Côté was still effective. He was 10/12 on field goals including a 53 yarder and had 1,149 yards on 18 kickoffs. He performed under pressure and was a reliable asset for the team.

    Thanks from the Organization

    The Alouettes organization would like to thank Côté for his services. “David gave us good years and was always a pro,” said general manager Danny Maciocia. “We thank him for his time with us and wish him all the best.”

    Life After Football

    Côté’s football career may be over but his next chapter is just beginning. A Laval University graduate, he will focus on his teaching career – a passion he hopes to pursue with the same dedication he had on the field.

    Although his time in the CFL was short, Côté leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, consistency and great moments. He will not be forgotten anytime soon.

  • Greg Ellingson Retires: Ottawa Redblacks Legend Calls It a Career

    Greg Ellingson Retires: Ottawa Redblacks Legend Calls It a Career

    CFL star Greg Ellingson has officially retired and is hanging up his cleats as a member of the Ottawa Redblacks. The 36 year old receiver leaves behind a career defined by grit, determination, and some amazing moments on the field.

    A Journey That Began in St. Petersburg

    Ellingson’s CFL journey started almost by accident in St. Petersburg, Florida. “From the moment Danny McManus started to warm up to throw me routes for a tryout. I had no idea how my CFL journey would play out,” Ellingson said in his statement.

    It wasn’t always clear cut, but after joining the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 2013, it became apparent he was going to be a star. When the opportunity came to join the Ottawa Redblacks, he didn’t hesitate. “Coming to Ottawa with Smilin’ Hank [Henry Burris] was a no brainer” he said.

    Four Amazing Years in Ottawa

    Ellingson spent four amazing years in Ottawa from 2015 to 2018 and became one of the league’s top receivers. In those 70 games he had 332 receptions for 4,866 yards and 30 touchdowns. Every year he went over 1,000 yards including a 2017 season where he had career highs of 96 catches, 1,459 yards and 12 touchdowns.

    The bonds he made with teammates like Brad Sinopoli, Ernest Jackson, Jonathan Rose, Sherrod Baltimore and Jon Gott were unforgettable. “The bonds in the locker room… were part of four amazing years in the nation’s capital,” Ellingson said.

    The Miracle on Bank Street

    One of Ellingson’s most memorable moments was in the 2015 East Final at TD Place. With the Redblacks down late in the game, Ellingson caught a 93-yard catch-and-run touchdown on 2nd and 25 to win the game and send Ottawa to the Grey Cup. It’s known as the ‘Miracle on Bank Street’ and is etched in CFL history.

    Ellingson was part of the team that brought the Grey Cup back to Ottawa for the first time in 40 years in 2016. “Bringing the Grey Cup back to Ottawa… is a life achievement that can’t even be put into words,” he said.

    A Career Spanning the CFL

    Ellingson’s heart was always in Ottawa but his career took him across the league. After the Redblacks he went to the Edmonton Elks where he kept on truckin’ and broke 1,000 yards again in 2019. Then he suited up for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2022 and the Montreal Alouettes in 2023 and won one more Grey Cup before hanging up his cleats.

    Over 126 CFL games, Ellingson had 588 receptions for 8,560 yards and 45 touchdowns. He was a 3 time East all-star, 1 time West all-star and a CFL all-star in 2017.

    Honors and Legacy

    In 2024, Ellingson was named to the Redblacks all-decade team. “Greg has a special place in the history of our franchise” said Redblacks president Adrian Sciarra. “We are very proud to be a part of his career.”

    Head coach Bob Dyce agreed. “His contributions will never be forgotten.”

    Farewell to Fans and Teammates

    In his goodbye message Ellingson thanked the fans and teammates who supported him throughout his career. “To the fans and all the teammates I played for and with, the love in my heart and the memories in my head will be with me forever.”

    He may be retired as a player, but Ellingson is still mentoring young athletes and sharing the fun he had in the CFL. “I’m honoured to retire as a REDBLACK… though I still put them on every week to coach and train the next generation of athletes.”

  • Lions Announce Death of Former Head Coach Donovan at Age 84

    Lions Announce Death of Former Head Coach Donovan at Age 84

    The CFL community is saddened by the passing of Larry Donovan, former head coach of the B.C. Lions, who was 84. The Lions announced his death on Monday but no cause was given. Donovan’s impact as a coach and mentor lives on with those who played for and worked with him.

    A Football Life

    From Special Teams to Head Coach

    Larry Donovan joined the B.C. Lions in 1986 as special-teams and defensive-line coach. His leadership skills were evident and he was promoted to interim head coach on October 30, 1987 after Don Matthews was let go. Donovan didn’t waste any time making an impact, leading the Lions to a 4-game win streak that gave them the West Division top spot.

    The next season Donovan led the Lions to a 10-8 record and a Grey Cup appearance against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Although they lost 22-21, Donovan’s time in the CFL was cemented.

    Fired and Back to Coaching

    Donovan was let go as head coach four games into the 1989 season after an 0-4 start. But he stayed in football, coaching the linebackers for the Saskatchewan Roughriders from 1990-91 under Don Matthews, his predecessor in B.C.

    Beyond the CFL: A Global Impact

    Donovan’s coaching career went far beyond North America. From 1992 to 2007, he coached the Japanese X League Hurricanes, leaving a lasting mark on the sport in Japan. He was a training camp coach and consultant for the Asahi Beverage Challengers in Osaka in 2010.

    Before coming to Canada, Donovan was an assistant coach at several U.S. universities, including South Dakota, Washington State, Iowa and Kansas. He was also the head coach at the University of Montana from 1980 to 1985 where he led the Grizzlies to the 1982 Big Sky Conference championship. In six seasons he was 25-38-1.

    A Life of Service and Dedication

    Military Service and Leadership

    Born in Casper, Wyoming, Donovan was more than just a football coach. He was a commissioned second lieutenant in the U.S. Army, serving two years of active duty in Oklahoma and Korea. He received a commendation medal in Korea. Even while coaching at South Dakota, Donovan was a member of the National Guard.

    Legacy on and Off the Field

    Jamie Taras, the Lions’ director of community partnerships and a former player under Donovan, said:

    “Throughout his time here, Larry impacted everyone in our organization. He always had great energy and it trickled down to the rest of the team. Our thoughts are with his wife Georgia, their three daughters and the whole family.”

  • Chargers Sign Trey Lance to 1-Year Deal After CFL Interest

    Chargers Sign Trey Lance to 1-Year Deal After CFL Interest

    The Los Angeles Chargers have added some depth to their quarterback room by signing former Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers quarterback Trey Lance to a one-year deal. The deal is worth up to $6.2 million and has Lance as the third-string quarterback behind Justin Herbert and Taylor Heinicke.

    A New Beginning for Trey Lance

    For Trey Lance, this is another chapter in what has been a tough NFL journey so far. He was drafted by the 49ers with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2021 draft after a great college career at North Dakota State. He was supposed to be a franchise quarterback. But injuries and inconsistency derailed his progress in San Francisco. An ankle injury early in his career opened the door for Brock Purdy to take the starting job – a job Purdy hasn’t given up since.

    Lance then joined the Cowboys before the 2024 season but saw limited action, making just one start against the Washington Commanders. In that game, he completed 61% of his passes for 244 yards, no touchdowns or interceptions. Not a great performance, but showed some flashes of potential that can still be developed with the right situation.

    From CFL to NFL Comeback

    Before landing with the Chargers, Lance’s football future was up in the air. After his contract with the Cowboys expired last month, there was talk of him heading north to the Canadian Football League (CFL). The Saskatchewan Roughriders even put Lance on their negotiating list, giving them exclusive rights to him—likely because his dad played for the team in 2023.

    Luckily for Lance, the CFL route won’t be necessary just yet. Instead, he’ll stay in the NFL where the Chargers hope to rekindle his career. Though he’s currently a backup, being around a good quarterback like Justin Herbert and a supportive staff might be what Lance needs to get back on track.

    Can the Chargers Unlock Lance’s Potential?

    Lance is only 24. He has a lot of upside. Over three seasons in the league he’s thrown 1,063 yards, 5 touchdowns and 4 interceptions in limited action. His athleticism and arm talent were why he was such a highly touted prospect coming out of college. If the Chargers can tap into that and fix his consistency issues they might have a good asset down the line.

    Lance isn’t expected to play much unless injured but he gives the Chargers insurance behind Herbert. More importantly he gives Lance another chance to prove himself in the NFL—a league where second chances are hard to come by.

  • CFL Scouts Eye North Texas LB Jaylen Smith as Top Prospect

    CFL Scouts Eye North Texas LB Jaylen Smith as Top Prospect

    As the 2025 CFL Draft approaches, North Texas linebacker Jaylen Smith is making noise as one of the top prospects. In his latest mock draft, CFL.CA’s Marshall Ferguson has Smith going 4th overall to the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

    Why the Roughriders like Jaylen Smith?

    According to Ferguson, Smith’s skillset fits what Roughriders head coach Corey Mace is looking for in a player.

    “Corey Mace wants aggression, speed and positional flexibility” Ferguson wrote. “That’s where Jaylen Smith could walk in as a National running mate to any of the Roughriders’ top linebackers and provide immediate security in case of injury”

    Smith’s ability to contribute right away makes him a nice fit for a team like the Roughriders who value depth and versatility on defence.

    North Texas Standout

    From Hamilton, Ontario, Smith played four years at North Texas where he went from defensive back to outside linebacker. His breakout season was 2024 where he started all 12 games at outside linebacker. In that season he showed his athleticism and instincts with 106 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and an interception. He also had 12 quarterback hurries and 2 pass breakups proving he was a game changer on the field.

    Throughout his college career Smith had 160 total tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 1/2 sack, 2 interceptions, 1 forced fumble and 3 pass deflections. His transition from a rotational defensive back to a full time starter at linebacker shows his adaptability and growth as a player.

    The CFL Draft and Smith’s Impact

    The 2025 CFL Draft is April 29, and Smith will make an impact wherever he goes. His speed, aggression and football IQ makes him a valuable asset to any CFL team. For Saskatchewan, he could step into a key role alongside their veteran linebackers and provide depth and playmaking ability.

    Smith’s journey from Denton, Texas to the CFL Draft is a testament to his hard work and dedication. As a Canadian prospect, he has national eligibility which is a big advantage for teams looking to fill their rosters under league rules.

  • Wyoming LB Connor Shay Projected as Top Pick in CFL Draft

    Wyoming LB Connor Shay Projected as Top Pick in CFL Draft

    After a great senior season with the Wyoming Cowboys, linebacker Connor Shay is about to start the next chapter of his football career—and it could be north of the border. According to Canadian football expert John Hodge of 3DownNation.com, Shay is projected to be the #1 overall pick in the 2025 CFL Draft by the Calgary Stampeders.

    “Though we’ll see if he can be the next Alex Singleton, he’s a Cowtown fit,” Hodge said, on the impact Shay could have in Calgary.

    A Family Connection to Canada

    Shay is eligible for Canadian citizenship through his father who is from Prince Edward Island. This is a big deal in the CFL where teams love players with Canadian ties. For Shay this is a chance to get his pro career off on the right foot.

    Breakout Season at Wyoming

    Shay’s journey to the top of the CFL draft rankings started with his breakout 2024 season with the Wyoming Cowboys. In his first year as a starter he became a defensive force. He was 2nd on the team with 76 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, 1 INT and 4 passes defended. He was one of the most consistent defenders in college football last season.

    While the numbers speak for themselves, it’s Shay’s versatility and leadership on the field that really sets him apart. He’s got the attention of CFL scouts and NFL teams looking for late round gems or undrafted free agents.

    NFL Interest Looms

    Even though he’s a CFL projection, Shay’s path isn’t set in stone. NFL teams will be calling after the 2025 NFL Draft which ends April 26. If Shay signs with an NFL team – whether as a late round pick or undrafted free agent – it could complicate things with CFL teams. The CFL camps open in early May so if Shay gets multiple offers he’ll have to make a decision quick.

    For now, Shay is focused on preparing for the next step wherever that may be. His size, speed and football IQ makes him a versatile option for any team that gets him.

    A Fit in Calgary?

    If Shay ends up in Calgary he’ll join a team that develops linebackers into stars. Alex Singleton a former Stampeder who went on to play in the NFL is the blueprint for Shay’s success in the CFL. With his work ethic and determination Shay could be a similar success in Cowtown.

  • Ex-Steelers Defensive Back Makes Bold Move to the North

    Ex-Steelers Defensive Back Makes Bold Move to the North

    The Pittsburgh Steelers have been busy fine-tuning their roster ahead of the upcoming NFL Draft, but one former Steeler is taking his talents north of the border. Kalon Barnes, a defensive back who spent time with multiple NFL teams, has signed a deal to join the Edmonton Elks of the Canadian Football League (CFL).

    A Journeyman’s Path Leads to Canada

    Barnes’ career has been anything but linear. Originally drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the 7th round (242nd overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Baylor, Barnes was electric early on with his speed. In fact, he ran the fastest 40-yard dash among cornerbacks at the NFL Combine with a 4.23.

    But despite his athleticism, Barnes couldn’t find traction in the NFL. After his stint with the Panthers, he bounced around practice squads, including the Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, New York Jets and Cleveland Browns. Last offseason, Barnes signed a 1 year, $915,000 deal with the Steelers but was released during final cuts before the 2024 season started.

    Most recently, Barnes signed with the San Antonio Brahmas of the United Football League (UFL) for the 2025 season. Unfortunately, an injury in training camp cut his time with the team short and now he’s looking for another opportunity.

    A New Start in Edmonton

    Now, Barnes will be wearing the green and gold of the Edmonton Elks, a team that finished the 2024 season 7-11 after going 4-14 in 2023. For Barnes, this is a chance to reboot his career and show what he can do on a new stage.

    The CFL may not be the NFL but it’s a chance for players like Barnes to put together some good tape and get another shot at the top level. With his elite speed and raw talent, Barnes could be a big piece for the Elks if he can iron out some of the inconsistencies in his game.

    Can Barnes Rediscover His Potential?

    Barnes has always been an interesting player with his speed and athleticism, but inconsistency and lack of production has held him back. In Edmonton, he’ll have to show both reliability and playmaking ability to stand out in a league full of talented athletes.

    If he can step up, he might get another shot at the NFL or solidify himself as a star in the CFL. Either way, his journey is a reminder that perseverance and adaptability are key for any athlete chasing their dreams.

  • Will Trey Lance Sign with the CFL? Examining His NFL Exit

    Will Trey Lance Sign with the CFL? Examining His NFL Exit

    Since being drafted 3rd overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, Trey Lance has been unable to find his footing in the NFL. Now at 24 years old, there were rumors he was leaving the league altogether for a fresh start in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Here’s what you need to know about the rumors and why they made sense—before he signed with the Chargers.

    A Career Full of Potential but Limited Opportunities

    Lance was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers with high expectations, as they traded away valuable draft capital to get him. Initially thought to be the heir apparent to Jimmy Garoppolo , Lance’s career took a sharp turn after he suffered a serious ankle injury in 2022. That opened the door for Brock Purdy and he hasn’t looked back since.

    In 2024, Lance was traded to the Dallas Cowboys where he was a backup to Dak Prescott. He saw limited action, throwing just 143 passes in 4 seasons. It was clear opportunities to prove himself as an NFL starter were scarce. With free agency looming, questions arose if Lance could find a future in the league or if he’d have to look elsewhere.

    Why the CFL Made Sense for Trey Lance?

    The Saskatchewan Roughriders have added Lance to their negotiation list, according to TSN Football Insider Dave Naylor. This wasn’t random; CFL teams don’t add players to their lists “just to make noise”. The connection goes deep—Lance’s dad Carlton Lance played one season for the Roughriders as a corner back before joining the London Monarchs of the World League.

    For Trey, signing with Saskatchewan could have been a chance to follow in his dad’s footsteps and restart his football career.

    A Fresh Start and Playing Time

    One of the biggest draws of the CFL for Lance was the chance to finally be a starter. Since leaving North Dakota State, where he went 16-0 as a starter in 2019, Lance has yet to get consistent playing time in the NFL. In college, he showed off his dual threat ability, throwing 28 touchdowns, rushing for 14 more and not throwing an interception.

    Joining the CFL would have given Lance the opportunity to rebuild his confidence and show the world why he was considered a top prospect.

    Lance’s Decision to Stay in the NFL

    Lance opted to stay in the NFL, where he’ll sign a one-year deal worth up to $6.2 million with the Los Angeles Chargers. That’s according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. He’ll be backing up Justin Herbert, one of the league’s brightest young stars—and providing depth and experience to boot.

    That move keeps Lance in the NFL for now. But the CFL remains an option down the line if he can’t secure a starting job in the future.

    Understanding the CFL Negotiation List

    The CFL lets teams put up to 45 players on their negotiation lists. That gives them the exclusive right to talk to those players about contracts. Being on that list doesn’t guarantee the player will be interested, but it means only the team holding their rights can discuss a deal.

    Teams have to disclose 10 players from their lists twice a year. The other 35 names are kept confidential between the team and the league. Lance being on the Roughriders’ list meant they had first dibs if he decided to pursue a CFL career.