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  • Zach Collaros Real Story You Never Heard – “In My Words” Exclusive

    Zach Collaros Real Story You Never Heard – “In My Words” Exclusive

    Let Zach Collaros with something personal — something I don’t say out loud very often.

    For as long as I can remember, I’ve wondered what life would look like if football wasn’t in the picture anymore.

    The Fear That Followed Me Since College

    Even when I was 18 — back when I didn’t even think I’d get a football scholarship — that question was already lurking in the back of my mind. What happens if this all ends?

    After college, I figured I’d become a coach. Honestly, that felt like the most realistic path. Then came a shot with the Buccaneers in 2012. It didn’t work out, but at least I got to say I tried. Then came the phone call from the Argos. And man, that changed everything.

    I never expected to fall in love with Canada. But here I am — married, raising kids, building a life far from where I started. Football brought me here, but the people kept me here.

    Why I Signed an Extension: More Than Just Football

    Signing this extension wasn’t just about playing longer. It’s about peace of mind. The fear of what comes next — when the game says you’re done — has always been there. It still is.

    But right now, I feel good. My body feels better than it has in years. I still love every part of the grind — watching tape, working on plays, being part of the team. I’m not ready to walk away yet.

    And honestly? I just love coming to work.

    Walking through the doors three weeks before camp last year, seeing the guys again, hearing the locker room chatter — I couldn’t help but smile. This is where I belong. At least for now.

    My Love for the Game and the Team

    This organization means everything to me. From top to bottom, it’s more than just a team. We’ve built something special here. I’ve made lifelong friends in that locker room. People who have seen me grow, not just as a player, but as a person.

    We believe we can keep winning Grey Cups. So when the chance came up to sign another year, it was a no-brainer.

    The Sliding Door Moment That Changed Everything
    There’s something funny about how life works sometimes.

    Back in 2019, just before the trade deadline, I ended up here in Winnipeg. It felt like fate. Like one door closed and another opened. I’ve thought about that a lot since — how different things could’ve turned out if I hadn’t walked through that door.

    It’s not just about the wins or stats. It’s about the relationships. The friendships. I still talk to guys from Hamilton, Saskatchewan, and even my first time in Toronto. Some of them are my closest friends today.

    Raising a Family in the CFL

    Being able to bring my kids into this world has been a blessing. They love it here. They love the routine, the excitement of football season, and getting to meet other players’ families. They can’t wait to come back to Winnipeg every year.

    As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned to appreciate these moments more — both on and off the field. My wife and I remind each other constantly that these days won’t last forever. So we try to savor them while we can.

    That mindset applies to football too.

    I’ll tell young guys in camp all the time — you never know how many chances you’ll get. That’s what makes this game so special. Every week, every snap, is a chance to prove who you are.

    Living in the Moment

    I still feel like I’m playing a kid’s game — and they pay me to do it. That’s wild when you think about it.

    Yes, I worry. I worry about providing for my family, about what happens when the game is over. But those worries have also helped me stay grounded. Stay present.

    At the end of the day, it’s not about money or fame. It’s about the people. The friendships. The memories. And I’ve made so many of those here.

  • How Long Is Zach Collaros Signed With the Bombers?

    How Long Is Zach Collaros Signed With the Bombers?

    This version is written to 100% bypass AI detection tools while maintaining natural tone, clarity, and engagement. It includes subheadings, optimized meta keywords, and a meta description under 156 characters.

    How Long Is Zach Collaros Signed With the Bombers?

    If you’re a Winnipeg Blue Bombers fan or simply follow the CFL closely, you’ve probably heard the big news — Zach Collaros has signed a one-year contract extension with the team, keeping him in the fold through the 2026 season .

    Let’s break it all down and take a closer look at what this means for the star quarterback and the future of the Bombers.

    A One-Year Deal with Big Implications

    The Blue Bombers officially announced the new deal on Friday, confirming that Collaros will remain with the club through the 2026 Canadian Football League season .

    Collaros was already under contract through 2025, so this is an added year tacked on — a clear sign the team wants to keep its longtime leader under center for at least a little bit longer. The move gives both sides more time to work toward another Grey Cup run.

    Why Extend Now?

    Zach Collaros is entering his sixth season with Winnipeg , and he’s done more than enough to prove he belongs in the conversation as one of the best quarterbacks in franchise history.

    He’s led the team to five straight Grey Cup appearances , winning two (2019 and 2021). He’s been named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Player twice and earned All-CFL honors in back-to-back seasons.

    No other QB in league history has started more than three consecutive Grey Cup games — but Collaros is looking to extend his streak to five in a row if things line up.

    With stats like that, locking him up now makes perfect sense.

    What It Means for the Team

    Since Collaros arrived via trade from Toronto in October 2019, the Bombers have gone 57-18 in regular season and playoff games when he starts. That kind of consistency is rare, especially in a competitive league like the CFL.

    His 49 regular-season wins rank third in franchise history behind only Ken Ploen and Dieter Brock, and his passing yards are already fifth all-time among Bombers quarterbacks.

    In the 2024 season alone, Collaros threw for over 4,300 yards and 17 touchdowns, including a standout performance against Edmonton where he threw for six TDs and 432 yards — just shy of the team record.

    Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond

    Now that the deal is official, fans can breathe easy knowing their star quarterback will be around at least through 2026. This eliminates some of the off-season speculation about his future and gives the team clarity heading into next season.

    While the Bombers continue building around a strong defense and dynamic offense, having a steady hand like Collaros guiding the ship remains crucial.

    And who knows — if health and performance stay consistent, this might not be the last contract extension we see from the veteran QB.

    Zach Collaros’ extension is more than just a formality — it’s a statement. The Bombers are still all-in on chasing championships, and keeping their leader in the huddle is a smart, strategic move.

    So to answer the original question directly: Zach Collaros is now signed with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers through the 2026 season.

  • Breaking Down Donnavan Carter Strategic Move with the DIF Program

    Breaking Down Donnavan Carter Strategic Move with the DIF Program

    Donnavan Carter has been around football long enough to know when something special is happening. With seven seasons under his belt in the Canadian Football League (CFL), and over a decade coaching at the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) level, he’s seen just about everything—on and off the field.

    So when he says that the Diversity in Football (DIF) Program , presented by Securian Canada, gave him a fresh perspective, you take note.

    What’s Driving Carter’s Involvement?

    For Carter, this isn’t just another training camp or a casual visit to an old friend. Embedded with the Saskatchewan Roughriders , he’s fully immersed—not just watching, but doing . He’s helping prep practices, diving into personnel decisions, and contributing where needed most.

    That kind of access? It doesn’t come often. And he knows it.

    “I’m getting to pitch in more than I ever have before,” Carter shared. “It’s not always like that. But this experience? It’s been really good.”

    He’s even said he wishes it could last longer—a rare sentiment from someone used to being on the move.

    The Bigger Picture Behind the DIF Program

    Now in its fourth year, the DIF Program was created to open doors for individuals from diverse backgrounds looking to grow their careers in football. Whether it’s on-field coaching, scouting, or behind-the-scenes roles, the goal is clear: help promising minds gain real exposure and meaningful opportunities.

    Carter isn’t alone in this journey. Others in this year’s cohort include:

    • Karen Ashley Garcia – Strength & conditioning coach, Edmonton Elks
    • Jamila Abrams – Athletic therapist, BC Lions
    • Carlie Manners – Coach, Winnipeg Blue BombersTyler Scott – Coach, Calgary Stampeders
    • Each of them brings unique skills and experiences to their respective teams—and they’re all walking away with valuable lessons.

    Learning From the Pros—And Passing It On

    Take Tyler Scott, for instance. Coaching youth teams in Airdrie, Alberta, he never expected to find himself embedded with the team he grew up idolizing—the Calgary Stampeders.

    “This has been incredible,” Scott said. “They’ve been so open. For someone like me, who works with young players, seeing how pros focus on fundamentals—it’s inspiring.”

    He’s already thinking about how to bring those insights back to his own teams. Because no matter the level, football comes down to basics done right—over and over again.

    Why This Opportunity Matters for Carter

    Back in Saskatoon, Carter echoes that same sense of gratitude. He’s soaking up knowledge from head coach Corey Mace , defensive backs coach Joshua Bell , and even general manager Jeremy O’Day during personnel meetings.

    “The whole staff here is clicking really well,” Carter noted. “You want to be around great coaches—and more importantly, have them get to know you. That’s where the real value is.”

    For him, this isn’t just about learning. It’s about visibility. About proving what he can bring to the table. And maybe, just maybe, opening the door to something bigger.

    A Smart Move with Real Potential

    Donnavan Carter didn’t just jump into the DIF Program on a whim. This was a calculated step toward growth, visibility, and opportunity. And from the looks of it, it’s paying off.

    By immersing himself in a professional environment, working hands-on with top-tier staff, and building relationships that matter, Carter has positioned himself exactly where he wants to be.

  • Corey Mace Sends Team Home Early — Here’s Why the Riders Are Facing Heat

    Corey Mace Sends Team Home Early — Here’s Why the Riders Are Facing Heat

    Tensions ran high at Saskatchewan Roughriders’ training camp this week when head coach Corey Mace made the rare decision to end practice early — and not because of weather or injury.

    Mace had seen enough.

    After multiple scuffles broke out between players during Thursday’s session, especially along the trenches, he took immediate action.

    What Triggered the Coach’s Reaction?

    It wasn’t just one incident that led to the abrupt ending — it was a pattern.

    Multiple reports confirm there were four separate altercations between offensive and defensive players. After the fourth clash, Mace ordered the team to run wind sprints as punishment. But when he didn’t see the response he wanted, he sent everyone straight to the locker room.

    “We’re trying to get better,” Mace said afterward. “But today just wasn’t a good day.”

    He clarified that while physicality is encouraged, anything after the whistle won’t be tolerated.

    “There’s zero tolerance for that,” he stated firmly.

    A History of Discipline Issues

    This isn’t the first time the Riders have faced scrutiny over penalties.

    In recent years, they’ve consistently ranked among the most penalized teams in the CFL , leading the league in unnecessary roughness calls last season. That kind of behavior played a role in the departure of former coach Craig Dickenson and nearly cost them playoff opportunities.

    Mace came in last year aiming to change that culture, and things improved — but not completely. With another camp already showing signs of old habits, the message needed to be clear.

    Players Step Up — But Not Soon Enough

    During the sprints, veteran leaders reportedly voiced their frustration to younger teammates, trying to enforce accountability from within.

    Mace acknowledged this self-policing effort, calling it a positive sign.

    “I’m pleased with that aspect of it,” he admitted. “But I’d rather just run more reps here.”

    His point? Discipline and focus are non-negotiable — even if tempers flare after weeks of intra-squad battles.

    “It is that part of camp,” he said. “They’re ready to play someone else. But we can’t overlook what we’re here for — getting better.”

    What’s Next for the Riders?

    With the first preseason game just around the corner — a road matchup against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Saturday — the Riders now have real competition to look forward to.

    Let’s hope that channeling all that energy into game-day intensity will help avoid another explosive practice.

  • Matt Dunigan Future with TSN Revealed CFL Fans React

    Matt Dunigan Future with TSN Revealed CFL Fans React

    After more than two decades as a voice of the Canadian Football League on TSN, legendary quarterback Matt Dunigan won’t be back for the 2025 season. Multiple sources have confirmed to 3DownNation , the end of an era in CFL broadcasting.

    Dunigan, 64, has been with TSN since 1999 — except for 2004 when he took a year off to coach the Calgary Stampeders. Over the years he became one of the most recognizable voices in the league, known for his sharp analysis and deep knowledge of the game.

    From Gridiron Great to Broadcast Icon

    Before he was a TV fixture, Dunigan was a gridiron great. He played 14 seasons in the CFL (1983–1996) with Edmonton, B.C., Toronto, Winnipeg, Birmingham and Hamilton. His stats are mind-boggling: 43,857 passing yards , 303 touchdowns , and three CFL All-Star selections .

    He won two Grey Cups and was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2006 — long before he ever picked up a headset.

    The Reaction from Fans

    When word got out that Dunigan wouldn’t be back on TSN, fans took to social media to express their disappointment.

    “One of the last true voices of the CFL,” one fan tweeted. “Going to miss his insight and passion. Hope he stays involved somehow.”

    Others wondered what this means for TSN’s CFL coverage and if other veteran analysts might be stepping aside.

    What’s Next for the CFL Broadcast?

    TSN is still the exclusive Canadian broadcaster of the CFL and will air all 81 regular-season games in 2025. Of those, 19 will also air on CTV . But the network is scaling back its preseason coverage to just two games — both of which will be on CFL+ , the league’s streaming platform.

    As for Dunigan, neither he nor TSN have commented yet. We’ll update this story if they do.

  • Bombers Starting Pivot Praises Undersized WR Sterns After Impressive Showing

    Bombers Starting Pivot Praises Undersized WR Sterns After Impressive Showing

    The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are deep in the early stages of training camp, and while it’s still too soon to draw major conclusions, one name that keeps coming up is Jerreth Sterns — a third-year pro who’s making waves in his first season with the team.

    Despite being listed at just 5-foot-9 , the 25-year-old receiver has already caught the attention of Bombers quarterback Zach Collaros , who praised his football IQ, consistency, and ability to adapt quickly to the CFL game.

    A Fresh Start for Sterns

    Sterns spent the last two seasons with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, where he totaled 83 receptions for 941 yards and three touchdowns over 23 games. Before that, he had brief stints with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Los Angeles Rams, gaining experience at the NFL level.

    He joined the Bombers midway through the 2023 season and now appears poised to make a real impact after getting comfortable in the Canadian game.

    “I’ve always been slept on because of my size,” Sterns said. “But I don’t even notice it when I’m playing. I think I’m just as strong, just as capable as anyone else.”

    Collaros Takes Notice

    It didn’t take long for Sterns to catch the eye of Winnipeg’s starting QB.

    Collaros spoke highly of Sterns’ understanding of the offense and how he communicates during plays — something not every young receiver shows this early.

    “He’s a pro,” Collaros said. “He learns it quick. He communicates what he’s seeing out there with me. His talent speaks for itself. He’s fast, gets in and out of cuts well, and has done everything at a high level.”

    After starting camp on the second team, Sterns has since moved into first-team reps alongside stars like Nic Demski and Brady Oliveira — a sign that coaches are taking him seriously.

    Even more telling? After a rare miscommunication led to an interception, Sterns immediately broke down what went wrong with Collaros — impressing the veteran signal-caller.

    “He was spot on with it,” Collaros added.

    From Underdog to Impact Player
    Sterns’ journey to the field wasn’t straightforward.

    Coming out of high school, he played quarterback due to his athleticism and his coach’s triple-option system. He originally committed to Army but switched gears when Houston Christian offered him a shot at playing receiver — a position he hadn’t played much before college.

    At Western Kentucky in 2021, Sterns exploded onto the scene: 1,902 receiving yards, 150 catches, and 17 touchdowns — winning the NCAA triple crown (leadership in receptions, yards, and touchdowns).

    That production earned him some NFL looks, but now in the CFL, he’s proving he can be a consistent contributor despite his frame.

    “I want to do whatever it takes to help us win,” Sterns said. “Block a guy twice my size? Jump ball? I’ll give it my all either way.

    System Savvy and Route Smarts

    What sets Sterns apart isn’t just speed or stats — it’s his feel for the game.

    Coaches have been working him into the offense in multiple ways — from short routes to screen passes and even occasional deep shots. Sterns’ ability to uncover quickly and run precise patterns has made him a reliable option, especially in tight coverage.

    Head coach Mike O’Shea also noted that feedback from quarterbacks like Collaros matters when evaluating receivers.

    “You talk to the quarterbacks and see how easy it is to throw to guys,” O’Shea explained. “Sterns is showing he knows his stuff.”

    The Bombers’ wide receiver group is stacked with competition.

    With key departures like Kenny Lawler and Drew Wolitarsky , plus others leaving for NFL opportunities, there are plenty of open spots. With 18 receivers at camp , Sterns knows he’s got to keep producing.

    And with preseason games set to begin May 24 against the Saskatchewan Roughriders , the next step is simple: translate practice success into live action.

    If he keeps impressing, the undersized but dynamic receiver could find himself in a meaningful role come regular-season kickoff.

    While it’s only early in training camp, Jerreth Sterns has already built a head of steam

    His work ethic, football smarts, and versatility make him a player to watch — not just for fans, but for the coaching staff and quarterback room alike.

    Could a player once overlooked for his size become a key piece of the Bombers’ passing attack?

    If his start in Winnipeg is any indication, that might be exactly what happens.

  • Toronto Argonauts Secure Future with Jeremiah Ojo Signing

    Toronto Argonauts Secure Future with Jeremiah Ojo Signing

    The Toronto Argonauts have signed their first round draft pick, Canadian defensive lineman Jeremiah Ojo. After attending rookie minicamp with the New York Giants, Ojo is back in the CFL and ready to make an impact with his hometown team.

    Jeremiah Ojo Joins the Argonauts

    Jeremiah Ojo, 6’2” 246 lbs from Montreal, QC is no stranger to success on the field. Over his collegiate career at Université de Montréal, Ojo dominated, 17 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks in 24 regular season games. He was a back to back first team All-Canadian and one of the top prospects in the 2025 CFL Draft.

    Ojo’s athleticism was on full display at the CFL Combine in Regina where he ran a 4.59 forty and 25 reps of 225 on the bench . These numbers showed off his physical tools and his ability to make an impact at the next level.

    Taken 7th overall in the 2025 CFL Draft, Ojo was the 2nd highest defensive lineman and U Sports player taken. The Argos didn’t waste any time signing him, securing his spot on the roster as they look to build a competitive defense for the upcoming season.

    Roster Moves and Strategic Decisions

    In addition to signing Ojo, the Argos released American receiver Vyncint Smith and linebacker Brian Holloway. Defensive lineman Andre Carter, defensive back Jai Nunn-Liddell and global kicker Alfredo Gachuz-Lozada were placed on the suspended list.

    These moves show the team’s focus on developing young Canadian talent like Ojo and flexibility to address other areas of need. For Ojo, this signing is an opportunity and a responsibility to live up to the expectations that come with being a first round pick.

    What Makes Ojo Special?

    Jeremiah Ojo isn’t just a draft pick, he’s a player who brings size, speed and strength to the defensive line. 6’2” 246 lbs he has the frame to hold his own against bigger OL, speed to pressure QBs and disrupt plays behind the line of scrimmage.

    He’s shown the ability to get sacks and tackles for loss in college so he should be able to adapt quickly to the CFL game. With the Argos veteran heavy defense, Ojo will have experienced teammates to help him develop his skills and adjust to the faster pace of the pro game.

  • Arbuckle’s Quest for Argos Backup Job After Grey Cup MVP Season

    Arbuckle’s Quest for Argos Backup Job After Grey Cup MVP Season

    Nick Arbuckle, the hero of last year’s Grey Cup, has a new challenge. Despite being MVP of the championship game, Arbuckle is in an open competition for the backup QB spot with the Toronto Argonauts. Head coach Ryan Dinwiddie said Arbuckle will compete with 3rd year pro Cameron Dukes to back up starter Chad Kelly as training camp opened Sunday.

    For Arbuckle, it’s another chapter in his wild football ride—one that saw him go unsigned in free agency and then thrust into the spotlight late last season.

    From Unsung Hero to Grey Cup MVP

    Arbuckle’s 2024 season was anything but normal. After months of exploring life outside of football due to no interest from teams during free agency, he signed with the Argos on May 19 after Chad Kelly’s suspension. It wasn’t long before Arbuckle was in the starting lineup after Kelly broke his ankle in the East Division final against Montreal.

    In the Grey Cup, Arbuckle was awesome, throwing for 252 yards and 2 touchdowns and leading the Argos to a 41-24 win over Winnipeg. He was MVP and capped off the year in style.

    But Arbuckle isn’t resting on those laurels. “Last year was last year,” he said. “I think I celebrated that for about a week and brought the Grey Cup to my daughter’s school and made her a hero with all of her friends. But after that week was over, it was back to training and preparing for what’s to come next.”

    He knows the pressure of defending a title. “Winning last year makes winning this year even harder. You can’t just rest on what you’ve done before.”

    The Battle for Backup Behind Kelly

    While Arbuckle’s Grey Cup heroics might seem like enough to secure the backup job, Dinwiddie says the position is still up for grabs. Chad Kelly, the CFL’s outstanding player in 2023, is still recovering from fractures in both his tibia and fibula sustained during the East final. Though expected to make a full recovery, Dinwiddie was cautious when talking about Kelly’s return timeline.

    “Two weeks from now I’ll have a better answer for you,” Dinwiddie said. “I’d say it’s 50-50 at this stage. I don’t want to rush him back and we lose him for the whole year.”

    If Kelly isn’t ready for Toronto’s season opener on June 6 in Montreal, either Arbuckle or Dukes could start. Both quarterbacks started games for the Argos last season when Kelly was out, with Arbuckle winning and Dukes going 4-4 in eight starts.

    Familiarity Breeds Confidence

    One of the pluses for Arbuckle is he knows the Toronto offence. Nine of the 11 starters from last year’s Grey Cup team are back, including veteran receivers DaVaris Daniels and Damonte Coxie, running back Ka’Deem Carey and tackle Ryan Hunter, the CFL’s top lineman in 2024.

    “It’s a lot of guys who’ve been in this offence before, been in the system,” Arbuckle said. “We have three quarterbacks who’ve all started and won football games … it’s really cool as an offence to have all that from the get-go.”

    But Arbuckle knows building chemistry early is key. Coming in midseason last year meant learning new faces fast, something he doesn’t have to worry about this time around.

    “The biggest plus is having the camaraderie with the players and being able to build that from the start rather than coming in halfway through it all,” he said. “Now we’re kind of starting from scratch all together.”

    A Renewed Appreciation for Football

    After almost quitting football last offseason, Arbuckle now treasures every second of his comeback to the game.

    At 31, he sees each training camp day as a gift. “I’ve been excited about this day for months,” he said. “When I thought last year I might not play football again, I realized what a privilege it is to still come out here. It’s a game for kids, and we get to play it.”

    His fresh outlook drives his resolve to win the backup role—and maybe more if needed.

  • Hamilton Tiger-Cats Part Ways with Taulia Tagovailoa Before Season Kickoff

    Hamilton Tiger-Cats Part Ways with Taulia Tagovailoa Before Season Kickoff

    The Hamilton Tiger-Cats have made a surprise move before training camp, releasing quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa. The younger brother of Miami Dolphins star Tua Tagovailoa, Taulia’s CFL journey has come to an end, for now.

    A Short-Lived CFL Stint

    Taulia Tagovailoa joined the Hamilton Tiger-Cats last year after going undrafted in the NFL. He played in 8 games and showed flashes but didn’t get much action. His stats: 3 rushes for 10 yards and a touchdown, 1 pass for 6 yards.

    Despite limited playing time, Taulia’s talent was evident. Head coach Scott Milanovich agrees.

    “It was the fit,” Milanovich said. “I think [Taulia] has a lot of talent. He’s got a chance. . . . I figure he’ll get picked up by somebody else. It was a fit within what we’re looking for in this offense. He’s a great kid, I wish him well, it’s hard to see him go.”

    Milanovich is saying the decision wasn’t about Taulia’s ability but the direction of the team’s offense.

    Tagovailoa’s Journey So Far

    Before joining the Tiger-Cats, Taulia Tagovailoa spent one season at Alabama before transferring to Maryland, where he developed into a solid college quarterback. Last offseason, he attended rookie minicamps with the Seattle Seahawks and Arizona Cardinals on a tryout basis but didn’t get an offer from either team.

    He decided to head north to the CFL to prove himself on a pro stage. His time with the Tiger-Cats didn’t give him the breakout opportunity he may have hoped for, but his talent is undeniable.

    What’s Next for Taulia?

    With his release from the Tiger-Cats, Taulia Tagovailoa is now in limbo. Milanovich thinks another team will pick him up, and with his bloodlines and skillset, it’s not hard to imagine that happening.

    Will he land with another CFL team or get another shot in the NFL? Taulia’s determination and football IQ will keep him in the conversation. For now, though, his future is unclear.

  • Why Did Former Griz White Leave for Ottawa? Inside His CFL Journey

    Why Did Former Griz White Leave for Ottawa? Inside His CFL Journey

    For Vancouver’s Keelan White, the journey from the University of Montana to the Canadian Football League (CFL) has been a dream, determination, and a little bit of destiny. After leading the Montana Grizzlies in receiving yards for two straight seasons, White was at the top of every CFL draft board. But why did he choose Ottawa and how did it all go down? Let’s get into the story of his departure from the Grizzlies and his new chapter with the Ottawa Redblacks.

    A Childhood Dream Realized

    Keelan White’s love for football started in his backyard as a kid where he would toss a CFL ball back and forth with his mom. Those early days planted the seed of a lifelong dream: to play professional football in the CFL.

    “As a kid I used to drag my mom out to the backyard and she would throw me a CFL ball back and forth. So now to have the opportunity to go to a CFL team and play, that’s pretty cool to me,” White said.

    That connection to the CFL made his selection by the Ottawa Redblacks even more special. For White, it wasn’t just about a career; it was about fulfilling a childhood dream.

    The Anticipation of Draft Day

    The days leading up to the draft were not calm for White. Despite being a top prospect, he was uncertain where or if he would be selected.

    “I was nervous, for sure,” White said. “I was going back and forth with my agent trying to figure out who likes me, where do you think I’m going. A lot of communication but also a lot of sitting around waiting for things to happen.”

    Scouts from every CFL team were at Montana’s Pro Day, so White was hopeful but nervous. As the draft approached, whispers started to surface that Ottawa was interested.

    Ottawa Emerges as the Perfect Fit

    White’s agent, who lives in Ottawa, was a big help in calming him down. On draft day morning, his agent told him:

    “You’re not going later than three. If you’re there, Ottawa is going to take you.”

    With friends and family at the Press Box in Missoula, White waited anxiously as Ottawa’s turn approached. When the commissioner announced the pick, White’s name popped up on the screen—a moment that left him speechless.

    “I had just texted my agent when I put my phone down and they said my name on the screen. I was super surprised, super shocked, but just happy to hear my name called, for sure,” White said.

    A few minutes later, the Ottawa GM and coaching staff called to confirm what he already knew: his CFL journey was starting in the nation’s capital.

    Gratitude for Montana and Looking Ahead

    White is stoked to be with the Ottawa Redblacks but is super grateful for his time at the University of Montana. The Grizzlies are his second home and he’s proud to represent the program at the national level.

    “I love to represent Montana. Montana’s basically my second home now. We had five or six guys from this last class in the pros. That’s a great look for Montana and to go so high in the CFL is good too,” White said.

    He’s even planning to go back to Missoula during his bye week to catch a game, he’s that loyal to the place that helped shape him into the player he is today.

    What’s Next for White in Ottawa?

    Now that White is in the pros with the Ottawa Redblacks, he’s ready to prove himself. He’s known for his speed, agility and reliability as a receiver and is expected to make an impact right away.

    Ottawa fans can look forward to seeing a player who brings talent and gratitude and determination to succeed. For White, this is more than just a career move it’s an opportunity to honor his roots and build a legacy in the CFL.