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  • Ed Hervey Drops Bombshell: ‘I Don’t Know Any Superstar Players in the CFL’

    Ed Hervey Drops Bombshell: ‘I Don’t Know Any Superstar Players in the CFL’

    Edmonton Elks general manager Ed Hervey didn’t sugarcoat his response to Geno Lewis’ public comments about being ignored during free agency.

    “I’m not going to go on a rant; I’ll answer you as quick as I can,” Hervey said. “I spoke to his agent, that was it. I was focused on the guys we wanted in Edmonton. That’s it.”

    Hervey said Lewis plays for another team now and should be happy where he landed. “To me, if I were in his shoes, I’d move on. That’s what I’ve done,” he added.

    “I Don’t Know Any Superstar Players in the CFL”

    Hervey’s comments took a weird turn when he said there’s no superstar players in the CFL.

    “I don’t know any superstar players in the CFL,” he said. “If guys feel they’re a superstar, great. But I’m not into guys’ feelings about themselves. That’s not where I go.”

    This came after Lewis said he considers himself a “superstar player in the league.” The three-time all-star was disappointed in Hervey’s lack of communication, calling it “not smart” for an organization to just ignore him so publicly.

    Why Hervey Moved On Without Lewis?

    Hervey said the Elks had other priorities in free agency. He said the team decided to use their cap space from Lewis’ release towards other positions, to strengthen the roster in areas they felt were more important.

    “The players we wanted, we have. That’s really it,” Hervey said. “We’re a team that wanted to go in a different direction. We had pressing needs elsewhere.”

    He also said he’s happy with the current roster, “Looking at who we brought in, there’s not a player on our list that we’d want to move on from.”

    Geno Lewis’ Reaction to Hervey’s Comments

    Lewis, now with the Ottawa Redblacks, said he was surprised by Hervey’s comments. The 31-year-old receiver signed a two-year deal worth $223,000 for 2025 – a $97,000 pay cut from his previous deal with Edmonton.“Not smart of him not to even talk to me,” Lewis said. “But I’m happy here. They wanted me and I’m ready to go.”

  • Blue Bombers Yet to Discuss Contract Extension with Zach Collaros

    Blue Bombers Yet to Discuss Contract Extension with Zach Collaros

    According to Blue Bombers GM Kyle Walters, there’s been no talk of extending Zach Collaros’ contract. The franchise quarterback signed a 3 year deal in October 2022 that runs until the end of the 2025 season. The $600,000 a year deal was worth $1.8 million in total.

    That was just before Collaros led the Bombers to another great season and won his second consecutive MOP. Now 36, Collaros has been the key to the Bombers’ success, leading the team to five straight Grey Cup appearances and two championships in 2019 and 2021.

    “We don’t do too many extensions before the season,” Walters said. “We’ll deal with all that stuff post-season, as we normally do.”

    It’s clear the Blue Bombers are sticking to their script when it comes to the cap. For now fans will just have to wait until after the 2025 season to see if Collaros gets an extension or if this is his last ride with the team.

    Collaros’ Stellar Career with the Blue Bombers

    He’s 35, but Collaros is still delivering. In 2024 he started all 18 regular season games and both playoff games for Winnipeg. His 4,336 passing yards were second in the CFL and he completed 70.1% of his passes, 17 TDs to 15 INTs.

    Even with all the on-field success, Collaros has admitted to thinking about retirement. But he hasn’t put a timeline on it.

    “I can’t speak for Zach as to how long he wants to play,” Walters said. “I know he loves football, loves to compete and generally guys like that just want to keep playing until they can’t play anymore.”

    For now, Collaros seems focused on one last big hurrah: winning a Grey Cup on home turf. Winnipeg will host the Grey Cup on November 16 and Collaros will be right in the middle of it.

    Why No Extension Talks Yet?

    General manager Kyle Walters says the Blue Bombers don’t do contract extensions during the season because of salary cap reasons.

    “That’s generally the way we do… with the cap and the way things are, we don’t do too many extensions leading into the season,” Walters said. “We’ll deal with all that sort of stuff post season, as we normally do.”

    This isn’t new for the Blue Bombers. In January 2022, Collaros became the CFL’s highest paid player after signing a one year extension for $550,000. Two months after winning the 2019 Grey Cup, he signed a two year deal that kept him in Winnipeg through 2021.

    Collaros’ Future: Retirement or Another Run?

    At 36 years old, Collaros is getting close to the end of his playing days. He hasn’t put a retirement date on it but he has started thinking about life after football.

    “I can’t speak for Zach on how long he wants to keep playing,” Walters said. “I know he loves football, loves to compete, and generally guys like that just want to keep playing and playing until they’re told they can’t play anymore.”

    Collaros is focused on 2025 for now, and leading the Blue Bombers to a Grey Cup on home turf. Winnipeg will host the Grey Cup on Sunday, November 16, 2025 so that’s extra motivation for the veteran QB.

    What’s Next for Collaros and the Blue Bombers?

    If Walters is right, Collaros’ future with the Blue Bombers won’t be decided until after 2025. For now the team is focused on the upcoming season and making another deep run.

    Collaros’ legacy in Winnipeg is already locked in, but another Grey Cup would solidify him as one of the all-time greats. Whether this is the end or the start of something new remains to be seen.

  • CFL News: Dakota Prukop Joins Calgary Stampeders as Coach

    CFL News: Dakota Prukop Joins Calgary Stampeders as Coach

    The Calgary Stampeders have announced the hiring of Dakota Prukop as their new quarterbacks coach. Prukop, who just retired after a 7 year playing career in the CFL, takes over the role previously held by Beau Baldwin, the former Eastern Washington head coach. This is a big new chapter for Prukop, who brings playing experience and a deep understanding of the game to the coaching role.

    A Seamless Transition to Coaching

    Prukop’s path to the Stampeders coaching staff was a natural one after his impressive CFL career. He played for the Toronto Argonauts, Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Edmonton Elks, showing off his skills as a passer and as a rusher. He was a leader on the field and that leadership quality will serve him well in this coaching role.

    Interestingly, Prukop’s connection to the Stampeders dates back to 2021 when he attended their training camp. Although it was a short stay, it made a lasting impression.

    “We only had a short time together when Dakota was at our camp but he impressed me with his work ethic and knowledge of the game,” said Dave Dickenson, Stampeders GM and head coach. “I know he’ll be great in our QB room and we look forward to seeing him develop in this new role.”

    For Prukop, it’s a new chapter.

    “My family and I are excited to start this new chapter with the Stampeders,” Prukop said. “Looking forward to working with Dave, Pat DelMonaco and the entire Stamps organization. Many of the CFL’s best coaches have learned here and I feel lucky to have this opportunity.”

    Prukop’s Player to Coach Journey

    Dakota Prukop’s football career has been pretty cool. After a great college career and a successful stint in the CFL, he’s making the transition to the sidelines.

    CFL Highlights

    In his 7 seasons in the CFL, Prukop played in 67 regular season games. In 2024, his final year as a player, he led the Edmonton Elks with 9 rushing touchdowns, showing he was a dual threat. He was a valuable asset to every team he played for because he could contribute through the air and on the ground.

    College Highlights

    Before the CFL, Prukop had a great college career. After 3 great years at Montana State where he completed 387 of 607 passes for 5,584 yards, 46 touchdowns and 16 interceptions, he transferred to Oregon for his senior season in 2016. At Oregon he completed 94 of 143 passes for 1,214 yards, 8 touchdowns and 2 interceptions and added 171 rushing yards and 2 scores.

    Prukop’s college career earned him 2nd team All-Big Sky Conference in 2015 and 3rd team in 2014. He’ll bring his experience and leadership to the sidelines as a coach.

    Why the Stampeders chose Prukop

    Stamps are committed to developing young talent within the organization. Having seen his work ethic and football IQ up close during training camp, they think Prukop can help their QBs.

    “Dakota’s knowledge of the game and ability to connect with players makes him a great fit for this role,” Dickenson said. “He can relate to our QuarterBacks and help them get better.”

    FAQs About Dakota Prukop’s Hiring

    Who is Dakota Prukop?

    Dakota Prukop is a former CFL quarterback who played 7 seasons with the Toronto Argonauts, Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Edmonton Elks. He’s now the quarterbacks coach with the Calgary Stampeders.

    Why did the Stampeders hire Dakota Prukop?

    The Stampeders liked Prukop’s work ethic, football knowledge and leadership during his short time with the team in 2021 training camp.

    Which CFL teams did Prukop play for?

    Prukop played for the Toronto Argonauts, Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Edmonton Elks in the CFL.

    What are some of Prukop’s accolades?

    In 2024, Prukop led the Edmonton Elks with 9 rushing touchdowns. In college he played at Montana State and Oregon and was an All-Big Sky Conference selection and a dual threat.

  • Team Saskatchewan Rocks Roughriders Gloves at the Brier: Fans Love It!

    Team Saskatchewan Rocks Roughriders Gloves at the Brier: Fans Love It!

    The 2025 Brier in Kelowna, B.C. has brought a surprise crossover between curling and Canadian football. Two members of Mike McEwen’s Saskatchewan-based rink—Kevin Marsh (second) and his twin brother Dan (lead)—are wearing Saskatchewan Roughriders gloves on the ice. This is huge and has the CFL fans in a tizzy.

    How It All Started: From Mosaic Stadium to the Ice

    The Marsh brothers’ love for Roughriders gloves started last year at the Brier in Regina. While touring Mosaic Stadium they stumbled upon the team’s equipment area and saw the gloves used by the CFL players.

    “We saw them there (in the equipment area) and we were like, ‘These would work really well for sweeping,’” Kevin Marsh told. “They work really well in terms of getting a good grip on the broom handle.”

    Gordy Gilroy, the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ equipment manager, hooked them up with more pairs for this year. They are a perfect fit for curling, sticky and grippy for sweeping.

    Why Roughriders Gloves Work for Curling?

    Curling Canada doesn’t have any rules on gloves so players can use what they want. Many curlers go bare handed or less sticky gloves but the Marsh boys swear by the Roughriders receiver gloves.

    “For me, it’s about maximizing grip strength on the broom,” Kevin explained. “You don’t want the hand moving around on the broom because the whole idea of sweeping is getting the maximum pressure down to be the most effective sweeper.”

    Other curlers use receiver gloves but the Marsh brothers are one of the few who proudly wear gloves branded to a specific CFL team. Their choice is not just practical but also Saskatchewan pride.

    Saskatchewan Pride: Born and Raised Riders Fans

    While Kevin Marsh isn’t a diehard CFL fan, being a Roughriders fan is in his blood since he was born and raised in Saskatchewan.

    “It’s hard not to follow the Riders,” Marsh said. “I know they’ve been struggling a bit lately—they haven’t won the Grey Cup in a long time—but we’re definitely following along when they’re playing well.”

    Despite their loyalty to the green and white, converting skip Mike McEwen to a Roughriders fan is still a work in progress.

    “This is his second year playing out of Sask so we’re really trying to convert him to be more of a Sask guy,” Marsh joked. “He says he’s getting used to the green colour now but I think he’s still a Bombers fan unfortunately. We’ll have to keep working on that.”

    From Football Dreams to Curling Glory

    The Marsh twins never played organized football growing up but they weren’t total strangers to the sport. Their high school coach once tried to recruit them but at “maybe 100 pounds soaking wet” they opted for less physical activities like curling instead.

    They’re not the only Brier participants with football backgrounds. Three players at this year’s tournament have gridiron experience:

    • Ben Hebert and Marc Kennedy , both curling under Brad Jacobs out of Alberta, played quarterback in the CJFL for the Regina Thunder and Edmonton Wildcats, respectively.
    • Catlin Schneider , formerly part of McEwen’s rink and now playing third for Reid Carruthers, was a U Sports receiver for the Regina Rams, recording 38 career catches for 373 yards and one touchdown.

    Team Saskatchewan’s Hot Start

    McEwen’s team is 4-0 at the 2025 Brier and sitting top of Pool B. They have PEI, Nova Scotia, Ontario and Quebec so far and are in great position to grab one of the three playoff spots.

    “We knew it was gonna be tough to top last year when we were the home team in Regina,” said Marsh. “The fans were really behind us and we had a great week there, but Kelowna is doing a great job this year too.”

    With so many Saskatchewan fans in Kelowna to cheer on the team, the atmosphere has been great. Add in the weather and it’s no wonder Team Saskatchewan is on fire.

  • Wynton McManis Sets New Standard for CFL Linebackers

    Wynton McManis Sets New Standard for CFL Linebackers

    Wynton McManis, aka “Mr. Great Business,” has done it again. The Toronto Argonauts star has signed a one-year deal worth $231,500 making him the highest paid linebacker in the CFL for the third straight year. This move locks him in as a defensive leader and raises the bar for future negotiations across the league.

    How McManis Became the Highest Paid Linebacker?

    McManis and his agent Christina Phillips played his contract extension right before the CFL free agent window opened. With multiple teams lining up to pursue him, the Argos had to up the offer.

    “In a lot of ways I play the game to help raise the bar,” McManis said. “I think a lot of linebackers in this league deserve a payday. You could say we control the field, we’re all over the place, we’re like the quarterback on the other side of the ball.”

    Why Linebackers Deserve More

    McManis thinks linebackers bring so much to the game, they’re the heartbeat of the defence.

    “A lot of guys in this league are worth big paydays and pushing that market,” he said. “Knowing what we bring to the league as far as fan bases and excitement to the game, expanding the trajectory of where we want the league to go and how we want to value our players.”

    A three-time Grey Cup champion and two-time CFL all-star, McManis has proven himself on the field. His leadership and play have been the key to Toronto’s success recently, including their Grey Cup win over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the 111th Grey Cup.

    Leadership Beyond the Numbers

    With the Argonauts as defending champions heading into the 2025 season, McManis knows the pressure is on. He says it’s all about focus and raising the bar.

    “You know what it takes to be great, what it takes to get the job done and achieve your goal—continue that, and it’ll never stop,” McManis said. “Once you’ve achieved it, you understand that it takes that, and now it takes even more.”

    Despite losing defensive linemen like Ralph Holley, Folarin Orimolade, Jake Ceresna and Robbie Smith to other teams, McManis isn’t worried.

    “I’m not nervous. I’m not scared a bit, honestly,” he said. “We’ve got some young guys. Jordan Williams is still here. Fresh legs, big body, great mobility, knows the game and wants to get better.”

    Williams showed promise in his rookie season with 12 tackles and 2 sacks in 9 games, while Derek Parrish had 21 tackles and 6 sacks in 2024. Veteran signings like Bryan Cox Jr., Anthony Lanier, Celestin Haba and DeMarcus Christmas add to the defensive line.

    Mentorship and Team Unity

    McManis loves mentoring younger players and building a culture of growth within the team.

    “It’s going to take everybody,” he said. “Guys coming in with the attitude I want to learn and I want to get better, I think that’s the biggest thing. I’m not going to hold back anything.”

    He added, “Anything I have to teach, anything I have to give or say, I give that. Now it’s up to you to receive it. Year in and year out we’ve had guys come in that are willing to learn. It’s my job to make sure that keeps happening and we’ll do great.”

  • CFL Mentorship Program Helps Castillo Plan for Life Beyond the Gridiron

    CFL Mentorship Program Helps Castillo Plan for Life Beyond the Gridiron

    Winnipeg Blue Bombers kicker Sergio Castillo is used to being in the spotlight, but this week he was on the other side of the camera. As part of the CFL Mentorship Program, Castillo and other players visited TSN headquarters in Toronto and met with broadcasting stars like Kate Beirness and Rod Smith. For Castillo, it was a dose of inspiration and excitement as he moves towards life after football.

    What is the CFL Mentorship Program?

    The CFL Mentorship Program, now in its 4th year, is a partnership between the CFL and the CFLPA. It provides players with professional development opportunities and a behind the scenes look at the business of football. This year’s participants were Castillo, Theo Grant (Montreal Alouettes), Jovan Santos-Knox (Ottawa Redblacks), Micah Teitz (Calgary Stampeders), and retired players Charlie Power and Elliott Brown.

    The program includes workshops, networking and hands on experience, such as assisting with the CFL Invitational Combine. It’s designed to help players transition into post football careers.

    Castillo’s Starstruck Moment at TSN

    For Castillo, the highlight of the program was TSN, where he met Kate Beirness and Rod Smith.

    “I got to meet Kate, which I was starstruck,” Castillo said. “And then I met Rod Smith as well. They were amazing. They answered all our questions.”

    Castillo, who is working on his Master’s in sports management, is looking at broadcasting, social media or partnerships after football. He’s a natural for roles that keep him close to the game.

    Theo Grant’s Two Passions: Football and Engineering

    While Castillo is nearing the end of his career, Theo Grant, 24, offensive lineman for the Montreal Alouettes, is just getting started. But Grant is already planning for the future.

    A biomechanical engineer by trade, Grant works for Spring Loaded Technology, a company that designs knee braces. He sees the mentorship program as a way to explore how his engineering background can intersect with sports administration and player safety.

    “It gives me an opportunity to see where there might be an overlap in my biomechanical and engineering background and the world of sport and administration,” Grant said.

    Why the Mentorship Program Matters?

    Football careers are short and players need to prepare for life after the game. The CFL Mentorship Program helps athletes like Castillo and Grant explore new career paths, build connections and get skills.

    “Football is a young man’s game,” Castillo said. “At some point or another we’re gonna be told, ‘Hey you’re not playing anymore.’ So I think the fact that they’re doing this, it’s cool. It’s opening other doors.”

  • Queen’s University Welcomes Ottawa Redblacks for 2025 Training Camp

    Queen’s University Welcomes Ottawa Redblacks for 2025 Training Camp

    For the first time in franchise history the Ottawa Redblacks will hold their training camp outside of the nation’s capital. Instead of setting up shop in Ottawa they are partnering with Queen’s University to hold their entire 2025 training camp in Kingston, Ontario. Here’s everything you need to know about the move and what it means for the team and the fans.

    Why Kingston for Training Camp?

    It wasn’t an easy decision. According to sources, multiple factors went into the decision. One of them was other CFL teams have successfully had camp outside their home cities and generate buzz and grow their fan base. By bringing the Redblacks to Kingston, we hope to introduce the team to a new audience and get Kingston residents to travel to TD Place during the regular season.

    Kingston is a Football Town

    Kingston is already a football city, with strong programs at the minor, high school and U Sports levels. Home to the Queen’s Golden Gaels, the city has great facilities and accommodations for players and staff. Richardson Stadium, renovated in 2016 and the new Lang Pavilion provide top notch amenities, meeting rooms, hydrotherapy facilities and more.

    And it’s close to Ottawa, only a 2 hour drive, so it’s an ideal location. We can travel easy and still get a fresh environment to prepare for the season.

    What Fans Can Expect in Kingston?

    The Redblacks’ training camp will kick off on May 11 and run through the preseason. The team will only return to TD Place for their final preseason game against the Montreal Alouettes on Friday, May 30 . This means all practices leading up to the game will take place in Kingston, giving local fans a unique opportunity to see their favorite players up close.

    Facilities at Queen’s University

    Queen’s University offers top-notch facilities that rival those found in professional sports settings. Richardson Stadium provides a spacious and modern venue for on-field activities, while the Lang Pavilion ensures players and staff have access to everything they need for recovery and strategy sessions. These resources make Kingston a perfect fit for hosting a professional training camp.

    New Way to Engage R-Nation

    One of the goals of this is to grow R-Nation by engaging fans that may not normally get to CFL games. Kingston has a passionate sports community and we can introduce the team to new fans and build relationships.

    Boost for Local Football

    Hosting training camp in Kingston also highlights the city’s football culture. Local youth and high school players may get to attend practices, meet players or even participate in events organized by the team. Maybe we’ll develop the next generation of football talent in the region.

    When will Ottawa Fans see the Team at Home?

    For Ottawa fans that can’t get to Kingston, the first chance to see the team at home will be Sunday, June 1 when Bob Dyce’s team has its first regular season practice at TD Place. Until then, Kingston will be the temporary home for the team as we prepare for the 2025 season.

  • Calgary Stampeders’ 2025 Free-Agent Signings: Contracts, Salaries, and Roster Fit

    Calgary Stampeders’ 2025 Free-Agent Signings: Contracts, Salaries, and Roster Fit

    After missing the playoffs for the first time in 20 years the Calgary Stampeders made a big splash in CFL free agency. The team went all in and brought in players to fix weaknesses and build for 2025. Below is what they paid their free agents and where they fit in the depth chart.

    Free-Agent Signings and their Contracts

    1. Dominique Rhymes – Wide Receiver

    • Hard Cash: $165,000
    • Signing Bonus: $27,000
    • Marketing Money: $10,000
    • Incentives: Up to $6,000

    Rhymes was an All-CFL receiver in his one season in the league. He’s back with Vernon Adams Jr., his old B.C. teammate. He’s a reliable target in the passing game and adds veteran leadership to the receiving corps. He could start right away.

    2. Damon Webb – Defensive Back

    • Hard Cash: $150,000
    • Signing Bonus: $30,000
    • Marketing Money: $10,000
    • Incentives: Up to $6,000

    Webb was a standout for the Redblacks last season and will likely start at boundary halfback for the Stampeders. He addresses a huge need in the secondary and gives Calgary a lockdown defender who can make big plays.

    3. Miles Brown – DT

    • Hard Cash: $132,500
    • Signing Bonus: $25,000
    • Marketing Money: $5,000
    • Incentives: Up to $12,300

    Big body and strength on defensive line, replaces Mike Rose who was released. 27 years old and in prime of career, should play in the middle.

    4. Tevin Jones – WR

    • Hard Cash: $130,000
    • Signing Bonus: $15,000
    • Marketing Money: $5,000
    • Incentives: Up to $18,500

    Former NFL journeyman adds depth to receiver corps. If he dresses for 10+ games he’ll get an extra $2,500, and more incentives tied to playtime and performance.

    5. Fraser Sopik – LB (Canadian)

    • Hard Cash: $128,000
    • Signing Bonus: $17,500
    • Marketing Money: $5,000
    • Incentives: Up to $18,500

    Western University product, started 12 games for the Grey Cup champion Argonauts last season. Contract suggests he’ll be a day one starter at weak-side linebacker, brings stability and leadership to the defense.

    6. Adrian Greene – DB

    • Hard Cash: $125,000
    • Signing Bonus: $10,000
    • Marketing Money: $7,500
    • Incentives: Up to $11,400

    Greene’s versatility allows him to play multiple positions in the secondary. Could compete for a starting role or be a rotational piece, incentives tied to defensive snaps.

    7. Jeshrun Antwi – RB (Canadian)

    • Hard Cash: $105,000
    • Signing Bonus: $10,000
    • Marketing Money: $5,000
    • Incentives: Up to $6,000

    Calgary product returns home to add depth to the running back corps. Will likely be a backup to Dedrick Mills, incentives tied to offensive snaps.

    8. Gary Johnson Jr., Derrick Moncrief, and Godfrey Onyeka*

    Hard Cash: $85,000 – $90,000 each

    All three add depth and experience to the linebacker and secondary. Moncrief a strong-side linebacker, Johnson Jr. a 4 year vet, will compete for a starting spot.

  • 5 Must-Watch Players Set to Shine at the Invitational Combine

    5 Must-Watch Players Set to Shine at the Invitational Combine

    The 2025 CFL Invitational Combine is tomorrow at the University of Waterloo’s Feridun Hamdullahpur Field House. This is the last chance for prospects to show off their skills and earn an invite to the CFL Combine in Regina, Saskatchewan. With so much talent on hand, CFL Insider has five players to watch.

    1. Jake Nitychoruk | Defensive Back | Manitoba

    Jake Nitychoruk Defensive Back

    Jake Nitychoruk is a big defensive back with size and speed. Six-foot-four, he’s a physical presence that could play special teams at the pro level right away.

    College Career Highlights

    • 27 games played with the Manitoba Bisons.
    • 54 tackles, 7 pass deflections, 1 forced fumble, 1 blocked kick.
    • Size and athleticism makes him a versatile piece in coverage and run support.

    Scouts will be looking for Nitychoruk to disrupt plays and cover ground.

    2. Gabriel Lessard | Linebacker | Montreal

    Gabriel Lessard Linebacker

    Gabriel Lessard is all potential. 6’2”, 228 lbs, 25 years old. He has the frame and athleticism to be a pro now. His college numbers don’t jump off the page but his special teams work and ceiling has drawn attention.

    What Scouts Are Saying

    Lessard’s coaches love his untapped potential and his readiness to transition to pro football. He can read plays and hit. A valuable addition to any CFL roster.

    3. Kinsale Philip | Defensive Back | Toronto

    Kinsale Philip Defensive Back

    Kinsale Philip’s journey from QB to DB is one of the most interesting stories heading into the combine. After passing for 1,759 yards and 7 TDs in his first two years with the Varsity Blues, Philip switched to defence in 2024 and made an impact right away.

    2024 Performance

    • 34 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss.
    • 2 pass deflections, 1 forced fumble.
    • Returned 4 kicks for 81 yards.

    Ben Harrington | Receiver | St. Francis Xavier

    Ben Harrington

    Ben Harrington is a versatile receiver who can play both inside and out. At 6’2 181 he has the size and skill set CFL teams look for in modern receivers.

    College Career Highlights

    • 129 receptions for 1,569 yards and 9 touchdowns in his career with the X-Men.
    • 16 kicks for 282 yards and 28 punt returns for 219 yards.
    • AUS all-star in 2024 as a receiver and returner.

    Harrington’s ability to play multiple positions will be a big selling point at the combine.

    5. Seth Robertson | Receiver | Western

    Seth Robertson Receiver

    Seth Robertson is another receiver looking to make a statement at the Invitational Combine. Over four years with the Mustangs he had over 2,000 yards receiving, he can really stretch the defense.

    Stats

    • 1,528 yards and 20 touchdowns over the last two years.
    • 18.5 yards per reception, he can take the top off the defense.

    6’1 187, Robertson is a deep threat. His testing numbers in the speed and agility drills will be key in seeing if he can duplicate his college success at the next level.

  • Toronto Argonauts’ 2025 Free-Agent Signings: Contracts, Fits, and Impact

    Toronto Argonauts’ 2025 Free-Agent Signings: Contracts, Fits, and Impact

    The Toronto Argonauts had a pretty quiet off season in free agency after winning their 2nd Grey Cup in 3 years. They lost some big names including defensive stars Jake Ceresna, DaShaun Amos, and Fraser Sopik but were able to re-sign some of their core players.

    With so much turnover, fans will need a program to recognize the new faces when training camp opens in May. Below we break down what the Argonauts paid their 2025 free agents, where they fit in the depth chart and what it means for the season.

    Key Departures: A Blow to the Defense

    The Double Blue said goodbye to many of their top defenders this offseason. Among those who left were:

    • Jake Ceresna: Dominant D lineman playing elsewhere.
    • DaShaun Amos: Elite boundary halfback signed with Hamilton.
    • Fraser Sopik: Versatile linebacker traded away.
    • Folarin Orimolade: Star Defensive end to Calgary.

    Big shoes to fill on Defense but the Argos made smart moves to rebuild.

    Retained Stars: Extensions That Matter

    Before we get to the new signings, the Argos signed up several key players to extensions:

    • Nick Arbuckle: Grey Cup MVP QB still under center.
    • Ka’Deem Carey: All-East Division RB back to bolster the O.
    • Damonte Coxie: Star WR still the face of the passing game.
    • Wynton McManis: Elite LB still the heart of the D.
    • Janarion Grant: Award winning returner adds speed to special teams.

    These signings keep continuity at key positions and gives the team a foundation to build from.

    Key Departures: A Blow to the Defense

    New Additions: Who Did the Argonauts Sign?

    Here’s a breakdown of Toronto’s key free-agent signings for 2025, including their salaries and potential roles:

    1. Bryan Cox Jr. – Defensive End

    • Salary: $120,000 (20,000 signing bonus).
    • Fit: 30-year-old defensive end has experience and pass-rush ability after 6 sacks and 24 tackles with Saskatchewan last season. He’s a starter on the D-line.

    2. Anthony Lanier II – Defensive Lineman

    • Salary: $110,000 (21,000 in incentives, 500 per sack).
    • Fit: Once the CFL’s highest paid defender, Lanier is looking to bounce back after being a healthy scratch last season. He’s a big (6’5”, 285 lbs) and skilled rotational piece or starter.

    3. Darrius Bratton – Halfback

    • Salary: $105,000 (15,000 signing bonus).
    • Fit: Bratton will take over the field-side halfback spot vacated by DaShaun Amos. He’s a coverage guy and will be a big contributor in the secondary.

    4. Celestin Haba – Defensive Back

    • Salary: $100,000 (10,000 signing bonus), plus 10,000 in playtime incentives.
    • Fit: Spent two seasons as a depth player with Winnipeg. Joins Toronto to compete for a starting role in the secondary.

    5. Cameron Judge – Linebacker

    • Salary: $197,000 (50,000 signing bonus), max value $202,000.
    • Fit: Acquired from Calgary in the Folarin Orimolade trade. Solidifies the weak-side linebacker spot and brings veteran leadership.

    6. Other Notable Additions

    • Hergy Mayala (Canadian Receiver): $80,000-$90,000. Could start or be depth.
    • Demarcus Christmas (Defensive Lineman): $80,000-$90,000. Rotational D-line piece. 2 DBs: $80,000-$90,000

    How Do These Signings Fit Into the Depth Chart?

    The official depth chart won’t be released until after training camp but here’s an early look at how Toronto’s roster might shake out:

    Offense

    • Quarterback: Nick Arbuckle is the starter with no one to challenge him.
    • Running Back: Ka’Deem Carey is the back.
    • Receivers: Damonte Coxie is the leader, Jake Herslow or Makai Polk could emerge as replacements.
    • Offensive Line: Jean Delance is at right tackle, Darius Ciraco in the interior.

    Defense

    • Defensive Line: Derek Parish and Jordan Williams are starters, Bryan Cox Jr. and Anthony Lanier II provide depth and rotation.
    • Linebackers: Wynton McManis (middle) and Cameron Judge (weak-side) are a solid duo.
    • Secondary: Benjie Franklin (cornerback) and Mark Milton (halfback) are back, Darrius Bratton and Ciante Evans competing for starting spots.

    Special Teams

    • Returner: Janarion Grant is one of the CFL’s top returners.
    • Kicker/Punter: Lirim Hajrullahu is the kicker, Jeremy Edwards needs to prove himself as the punter.
    How Do These Signings Fit Into the Depth Chart?

    FAQs About the Toronto Argonauts’ 2025 Free-Agent Class

    Who did the Argonauts lose in free agency?

    The Argos lost Jake Ceresna, DaShaun Amos, Fraser Sopik, Folarin Orimolade and others.

    Who are the big signings for the Argonauts in 2025?

    Bryan Cox Jr., Anthony Lanier II, Darrius Bratton and Cameron Judge (acquired in trade) are the big ones.

    How much are they being paid?

    Hard money salaries range from $80,000 to $197,000 with performance based bonuses available.

    Will the defence improve in 2025?

    The defence has changed a lot, but Bryan Cox Jr. and Cameron Judge will help stabilize the unit. But chemistry and execution will be key during training camp.

    What positions still need depth?

    The secondary is thin on Canadian talent and the offensive line may need more depending on Jean Delance at right tackle.