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.