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.
