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.
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.
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.
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