Before we begin, it should be noted that I am grading picks, not prospects. The same player who would be a steal in round five (A+) would be considered a reach in round one (F).
As with any live draft grades, take these with a grain of salt. Allow them to serve as a reference point based on the collegiate performance of the prospects below, analysis from scouts across the league, and team needs. Years from now, it’s inevitable that many of these grades will be considered too high or too low for a variety of reasons.
The CFL draft is a great event — enjoy it!
Editor’s note: this page does not refresh automatically; refresh as the draft progresses to see the latest grades.
1 (1) B.C. Lions (via Ottawa & Calgary) — LB Jordan Williams, East Carolina
3DownNation’s #3 prospect.
Three-year starter with the Pirates who made 251 tackles in 38 career games. Hasn’t played since he graduated in 2017. Born in Fayetteville, N.C. but qualified for the draft through his mother’s Canadian citizenship.
Considered too small for the NFL at five-foot-eleven and 218 pounds, but perfectly-suited for the Canadian game given his ability to cover sideline-to-sideline. Has elite speed and quickness. Projects as a starter at weak-side or middle linebacker.
The Lions still have a need along the offensive line, but Williams is the type of player who only comes around once every five to ten years. B.C. can sign him immediately and have a player who will dominate on special teams and potentially start at weak-side linebacker, where the club started Isaiah Guzylak-Messam in 2019. A
1 (2) Toronto Argonauts — REC Dejon Brissett, Virginia
3DownNation’s #12 prospect.
Had his draft year deferred after suffering a broken ankle as a senior at Richmond. Transferred to Virginia for 2019 but struggled to make an impact, recording just one reception in 12 games.
A bit of a risky selection given his injury history, but Brissett remains one of the draft’s most polished receivers who is also capable of contributing as a return specialist.
The safe pick here would have been Buffalo offensive lineman Tomas Jack-Kurdyla, who would have met Toronto’s biggest area of need. The Argos will have to hope the blocker falls to nine.
As for Brissett, this is a bit of a reach for me. I like the fact that he’s local, but taking a receiver at second overall who hasn’t produced in two years is risky. C+
1 (3) Calgary Stampeders (via B.C.) — DE Isaac Adeyemi-Berglund, Southeastern Louisiana
3DownNation’s #7 prospect.
Six-foot-two, 243-pound pass rusher who was converted from interior linebacker as a junior in 2018. Has extensive experience as an upback on punt team, which CFL teams consider a major asset.
Recorded 16 sacks over his junior and senior seasons, three of which came against Heisman Trophy winner and first overall NFL draft pick Joe Burrow of LSU. Has a good repertoire of pass-rushing moves, though he lacks an optimal wing span. Potential ratio-breaking pass rusher.
Calgary coveted Adeyemi-Berglund because he can rotate alongside Derek Wiggan on the interior while also providing depth on the edge with Connor McGough. Smart player. Great pick. A
1 (4) Edmonton Eskimos — OL Tomas Jack-Kurdyla, Buffalo
3DownNation’s #10 prospect.
A four-year starter who plays at an appropriate weight (305 pounds) for his six-foot-three frame. Plays with good leverage, but rarely finishes his blocks with dominance. Moves well and is able to get to the second level in the run game.
Bends well and displays solid balance. Has one of the best twitter handles ever: @LastStringQB. With Carter O’Donnell in the NFL, Jack-Kurdyla is considered by many scouts to be the only offensive lineman capable starting as a CFL rookie. Read his full draft profile here.
This is a safe depth move for the Esks. For a team that missed out on Waterloo’s Jesse Gibbon last year, this is a safe pick to address the interior of Edmonton’s offensive line. Jack-Kurdyla could compete for a starting job right away. A
1 (5) Hamilton Tiger-Cats (via Montreal) — OL Coulter Woodmansey, Guelph
Nasty blocker who plays consistently to the whistle — and sometimes slightly after it. Uses leverage effectively and is able to bury opposing defenders.
Not an explosive athlete who can sometimes get heavy feet. Highly coachable. Projects as a CFL guard.
This pick is a shocker. The local product could become a starter, but he’ll need a lot of time to develop. The Ticats have plenty of depth along the offensive line already with needs at linebacker and receiver. I think Woodmansey is a player that Hamilton could have waited on until the second or third round. C
1 (6) Ottawa Redblacks (via Calgary) — LB/DB Adam Auclair, Laval
3DownNation’s #11 prospect.
One of the most versatile defenders in the draft, capable of playing in the box or dropping back into coverage. Has a nose for the football and runs well in space.
Should play on all four special teams units as a CFL rookie. 2019 Bruce Coulter Award winner. The younger brother of Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ tight end Antony Auclair.
The Redblacks desperately needed to upgrade its personnel on cover teams, a need that Auclair fills immediately. He could eventually take over from Antoine Pruneau at safety and is bilingual, which matters in Ottawa’s market. B+
1 (7) Saskatchewan Roughriders — OL Mattland Riley, Saskatchewan
2019 first-team U Sports all-Canadian who is stout and physical, but not dynamic. Gets to the second level on short screens effectively. Could play guard in the CFL but might be best-suited to playing centre; has experience at both positions.
Smart player who provides some much-needed depth for Saskatchewan along the offensive line. Not many teams had him ranked as a first-round talent, but he rose late in the process due partly to strong interviews with teams.
This might have been a round too early, but it’s hard to criticize taking a smart local product in the first round considering there’s a chance he could start in a year or two. B
1 (8) Hamilton Tiger-Cats — DE Mason Bennett, North Dakota
3DownNation’s #9 prospect.
Winnipeg native who finished his career second all-time in Fighting Hawks history with 20 sacks. Has an excellent pass-rushing frame at six-foot-four and 258 pounds, though he’ll need to prove he can play special teams early in his CFL career.
A high-end athlete who plays with a violent streak. Nine-sack junior season put him on the NFL’s radar, though the lack of a pro day hurt his chances of earning a contract down south. Potential ratio-breaking pass rusher.
With Isaac Adeyemi-Berglund unavailable at fifth overall, Bennett is an excellent consolation prize three picks later. Potential ratio-breaking defensive end who will fill the role of a linebacker early in his career on special teams. B+
1 (9) Toronto Argonauts (via Winnipeg) — OL Theren Churchill, Regina
Plays with good balance and relatively quick feet. Hand positioning is consistent and difficult to out-leverage. Punishing in the run game – finishes blocks and manhandles interior defenders.
Susceptible when forced to cover distance, but often makes up space. Projects as a CFL guard with the ability to play tackle if called upon.
I really liked Churchill when I saw him live in Winnipeg this past year, but this is early for him. He brings crucial depth behind Jamal Campbell, but Churchill is a player who could probably have taken in the third round. C+
2 (10) Ottawa Redblacks — DT Michael Hoecht, Brown
3DownNation’s #5 prospect.
Physical freak who ran a 4.65 forty-yard dash at 295 pounds at his virtual pro day. Was born in Oakville, Ont. and raised in Ohio, though he moved back to Canada for a portion of high school. Served as a calculus tutor throughout his degree. Recently signed with the Los Angeles Rams as a priority undrafted free agent.
Hoecht is a perfect fit for an Ottawa team that will need an heir apparent to Cleyon Laing in the next 2-3 years. There’s some risk here in case he never reports, but his talent is off the charts. Upgrade this pick to an A if he reports by 2022 and an A+ if they get him by 2021. B+
2 (11) Toronto Argonauts — LB Jack Cassar, Carleton
3DownNation’s #15 prospect. Missed the 2019 East-West Bowl due to a broken ankle. Relies on his six-foot-four, 240-pound frame; will need to become a better block-shedder at the professional level.
Knows how to get after the quarterback, recording eight sacks in 31 games with the Ravens. Will excel on special teams and has the potential to become a starter at middle linebacker.
Makes perfect sense for a Toronto team that could look to start two Canadian linebackers in the next year or two. Great fit. B+
Had his draft year deferred from 2019 after failing a drug test following his senior season. An explosive athlete who put up 3,224 receiving yards and 30 touchdowns over four seasons with the Thunderbirds.
This is a bit of a surprise, but there’s no doubting Pinto is talented. He’s flashy and could also contribute as a return specialist in Calgary. He’ll ignite some excitement into the Stampeders’ receiving corps, upgrading a group that lost Juwan Brescacin to free agency. B
Hasn’t played since 2017 when he recorded right tackles for loss and six sacks with the Gee-Gees. The native of Prague recently qualified for the draft after attaining his Canadian citizenship and is already 27 years of age.
Has a great frame at six-foot-four and 240 pounds and came in as one of the draft’s biggest wildcards and he goes shockingly high here at 13. This pick is an indication to me that the Eskimos could start two Canadian defensive ends (Kwaku Boateng and Mathieu Betts) and need a backup.
Pae might be a great player, but this is such a risky pick with so many more proven options on the board. C
2 (14) Montreal Alouettes — DB Marc-Antoine Dequoy, Montreal
3DownNation’s #6 prospect.
Lanky defensive back who ran a blazing 4.35 forty-yard dash at his pro day in March, which was attended by two NFL teams. Played halfback with the Carabins but projects as a CFL field-side cornerback or safety.
One scout calls him a “once-in-a-decade defensive back.” Has a nose for the football and makes plays. Versatile and athletic though not overly physical. Recently signed with the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent.
This is a great local pick that addresses a major need for the Alouettes. As a long-shot to make the Packers, it’s entirely possible Dequoy reports to Montreal in 2020. A
Started with the Bobcats for three years following a one-year stint at Fort Scott Community College. Threw for 7,457 yards, 60 touchdowns and 20 interceptions in 39 games while rushing for 2,634 yards and 49 touchdowns. Considered by many to be the best Canadian quarterback prospect of the past decade.
Was not signed as an undrafted free agent following the 2020 NFL draft. Lacks elite size at six-foot-two and 210 pounds, which was a factor in Rourke not signing an NFL contract.
This is a slam dunk for the Lions. They get a player who will serve as the backup to Mike Reilly right away and do so at a cap-friendly number. The only thing holding this pick back from an A+ is B.C.’s need along the offensive line. A
Played his senior season at 280 pounds, shedding weight from the 2019 East-West Bowl. Commands double-teams often and rarely loses one-on-one match-ups. Stout but lacks an elite motor.
Doesn’t have the highest ceiling, but he has a high floor. Lawson should rotate a lot as a rookie and provide the Alouettes with some flexibility up front along the defensive line. B+
2 (17) Hamilton Tiger-Cats — LB Bailey Feltmate, Acadia
3DownNation’s #18 prospect.
Big-bodied linebacker (six-foot-two, 229 pounds) who put up 203 tackles over four seasons with the Axemen. The 2019 Tony Proudfoot Trophy winner has the size to play middle linebacker and the athleticism to play weak-side at the professional level. Should be one of the draft’s top special teams players.
I love this pick. I’ve been a big fan of Feltmate for a long time as a potential ratio-breaking linebacker. Perfect fit for a team that needed to address the linebacker position. A
2 (18) Winnipeg Blue Bombers — DB Noah Hallett, McMaster
3DownNation’s #23 prospect.
Athletic freak who recorded a 44-inch vertical jump at the 2019 East-West Bowl. Was named a second-team All-Canadian in 2019 at halfback, but should move to safety at the CFL level. Capable of delivering big hits, but needs to wrap up consistently.
The younger brother of Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ defensive back Nick Hallett who will contribute heavily on special teams. Strong pick that meets the Bombers’ biggest area of need. B+
2 (19) Ottawa Redblacks (territorial selection) — LB Daniel Basambambo, Laval
Big-bodied linebacker (six-foot, 230 pounds) who tested well at the 2019 East-West Bowl, including a 10-foot, five-inch broad jump and 20 reps on the bench. Didn’t play in 2020 due to academic ineligibility and plans to return to school this year.
Basambombo is not a top-20 talent, but there weren’t many players available to Ottawa with this pick. He plans to return to school in 2020, but he could be a great special teams player for the Redblacks in 2021. A
2 (20) Toronto Argonauts (territorial selection) — DT Sam Acheampong, Wilfrid Laurier
3DownNation’s #14 prospect.
Has a good burst off the line and moves well for his 275-pound frame. Gets held up at times, but excels at hitting the gap. Played defensive end when the Golden Hawks played a 30-front. Versatile and athletic. A boom-or-bust-type prospect with a high ceiling.
This is a good pick for the Argos considering Acheampong’s potential. He’ll take time to develop, but this is a shrewd pick for a player who could have gone earlier in the second round. A
Massive target at six-foot-seven and 225 pounds. A red zone threat who recorded 1,828 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns with the Clan. Named after longtime NFL/CFL receiver Andre Rison.
Recently signed as an undrafted free agent with the New York Giants. May be a better fit for the American game than the Canadian game given his size.
There’s risk here considering John is in the NFL, but I like this pick for Calgary considering their Canadian receivers lack size. B
3 (22) Montreal Alouettes — OL Carter O’Donnell, Alberta
3DownNation’s #4 prospect.
The Red Deer native attended the Shrine Bowl in January where he caught the attention of NFL scouts. Athletic, violent, and technical. Capable of playing tackle or guard. Some scouts consider O’Donnell to be the best U Sports offensive line prospect of the last three to five years.
Recently signed with the Indianapolis Colts as a priority undrafted free agent, earning a signing bonus of $25,000. Consensus is teams feel it will take at least two years for O’Donnell to report to the CFL.
This pick has risk, but the reality is that O’Donnell is elite. Even if you never see him, a third-round pick is a small price to pay to secure his rights. B+
3 (23) B.C. Lions — DT Court Hammond, Western Oregon
The native of Corvallis, Oregon qualified for the draft through parental citizenship. Registered four sacks in 23 games with the Wolves and has a solid frame at six-foot-four and 275 pounds, but has a history of knee problems.
Most teams had Hammond in the fifth-to-seventh round. The Lions reached here because they need a defensive tackle but Lawson and Acheampong are off the board. I like addressing this position, but this is way too early for Hammond. D
3 (24) Edmonton Eskimos — LB Malik Tyne, Towson
Converted basketball player who was not a regular starter at Towson, but still recorded 21.5 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks in 42 games. Considered very raw; has great physical tools, but requires development. Has drawn comparisons to Boseko Lokombo and could factor in at defensive end, linebacker or safety.
This is a good pick for a team that needs better personnel on special teams. I would expect the club to address the linebacker position again before the night is out. B
3 (25) Montreal Alouettes — DE Benoit Marion, Montreal
Posted six sacks in 2019 (second in the RSEQ) and drew the attention of scouts as the Carabins’ season progressed. Late-bloomer who was not invited to the 2019 East-West Bowl. Has an ideal frame at six-foot-five and 250 pounds.
Late-riser who is a great regional fit for the Alouettes. That said, this is at least one round early for the pass rusher. C+
3 (26) Calgary Stampeders — OL Jonathan Zamora, St. FX
Three-time AUS all-star and four-year starter who is one of the few offensive linemen in this year’s draft with extensive experience at centre. A punishing blocker who is stout in run and pass protection. Lacks optimal range and quickness.
I like Zamora, but this is a weird fit given the Stamps’ depth at centre (Sean McEwen, Justin Lawrence). A fine pick, but this feels a little bit early. C+
3 (27) Hamilton Tiger-Cats — REC Tyler Ternowski, Waterloo
3DownNation’s #24 prospect.
Speedy target who plays bigger than his five-foot-ten, 190-pound frame. Has great hands and doesn’t shy away from contact. Posted 169 receptions for 3,068 yards and 26 touchdowns with the Warriors including 1,257 yards in 2018. Read his full draft profile here.
This is a perfect pick for the Ticats, fitting a positional need and getting a local player. Ternowski has 4.50 speed and could be a big contributor at the CFL level. A
3 (28) Toronto Argonauts (via Winnipeg) — OL Dylen Giffen, Western
3DownNation’s #19 prospect. The six-foot-eight, 320-pound left tackle should move to guard at the professional level. Struggles at times when isolated, but excels in zone blocking schemes.
Physically dominant in the run game. Has drawn comparisions to CFL all-star Shane Bergman, who is of similar size and was also a member of the Mustangs.
A nice pick for the Argos who need to continue building the interior of the offensive line. Giffen bends really well for his size and could become a really good guard in the CFL. A-
4 (29) Ottawa Redblacks — OL Jakub Szott, McMaster
Career guard who was named a second-team OUA all-star in 2019. Not rangy, but has quick feet. Brings some of the nastiness that teams covet along the offensive line.
Often finishes blocks with authority. Has practiced centre of the past two years and may find a permanent home there in the CFL.
I’m really high on Szott, particular as a centre. Ottawa has plenty of offensive linemen, but — if the club wants to prioritize carrying interior blockers — Szott’s a nice fit for the fourth round. A-
Possesses solid size (six-foot-three, 203 pounds) and tested very well at the Ontario regional combine. His career production isn’t elite — 95 receptions for 1,544 yards and eight touchdowns — though the Gryphons have had a run-oriented offence over the past few seasons. Considered a sleeper by some scouts heading into the draft.
Great pick for a team that needs some depth behind 2019 draft selections Justin McInnis and Brayden Lenius-Dickey. Schaffer-Baker’s not a sure-thing, but he’s got a high ceiling. Good value in the fourth round. A-
Projects as a CFL safety given his size (six-foot-two, 210 pounds) but often played strong-side linebacker with the Warriors. Made 208 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, and 8.5 sacks in 32 games. Hits hard and runs well with receivers. Sticky defender with a long wingspan.
A nice fit for a team that already has Fraser Sopik on the roster — another Canadian ‘tweener.’ Solid pick for the Stamps. B+
4 (32) Edmonton Eskimos — DB Dotun Aketepe, Guelph
Fleet-footed cover man who’s a better tackler than most defensive backs. Posted eight interceptions in 26 games with the Gryphons.
The Esks have a lot of national defensive backs, but I think Aketepe could be good on special teams. B
4 (33) Montreal Alouettes — LB Brian Harelimana, Montreal
Rotated heavily with the Carabins, contributing at MIKE and as an edge rusher. Lacks elite speed, but was able to cover sideline-to-sideline in the RSEQ. Should contribute heavily on special teams.
Another member of the Carabins follows Danny Maciocia to the Montreal Alouettes. Solid special teams player for a team that lost Chris Ackie and Boseko Lokombo in the off-season. B+
Posted limited production with the Marauders (69 catches, 896 yards, and seven touchdowns in 21 games) but tested well at the Ontario regional combine at six-foot-one and 193 pounds.
This feels very early for Middlemost — especially considering the Stamps already have already taken two receivers tonight. Not sure about this pick considering some of the talent still available. D
Five-foot-eleven, 215-pounder who got to the quarterback 5.5 times over 30 games with the Gryphons. Ran a solid 4.70 forty-yard dash at the Ontario regional combine.
Special teams player who will provide some depth behind Cameron Judge and Micah Teitz. Can’t go wrong with this type of selection. B+
4 (36) Hamilton Tiger-Cats — DB Stavros Katsantonis, UBC
3DownNation’s #20 prospect.
2015 Bruce Coulter Award winner who had his draft year deferred from 2019 when he failed a drug test following CFL combine. Lacks optimal size but plays with elite instincts. Made 18 interceptions in 43 games with the Thunderbirds, earning the nickname “The Bakersfield Bandit.”
Fantastic pick. I understand why he fell, but Katsantonis projects as a starting safety in the CFL. Steal. A
4 (37) Winnipeg Blue Bombers — REC Brendan O’Leary-Orange, Nevada
3DownNaton’s #22 prospect.
Son of retired all-star CFL running back Doyle Orange. Caught just five passes this past season, though he recorded 618 yards and 4 touchdowns as a sophomore in 2018. His NCAA pedigree and frame — six-foot-four and 210 pounds — makes him an intriguing prospect, though his stock fell due to injury concerns.
Great value here for a player who could be the best receiver in the draft. If he stays healthy, this is an absolutely steal. A
5 (38) Ottawa Redblacks — DB Treshaun Abrahams-Webster, Calgary
Smooth cover man who was sometimes overshadowed in a deep Dinos secondary by Sterling Taylor IV and 2021 CFL draft first-round hopeful Deane Leonard.
I like the special teams value of Abrahams-Webster, though he is a bit on the small side. More depth at safety was also an area of need for the Redblacks. B
5 (39) Winnipeg Blue Bombers (via Toronto) — K/P Marc Liegghio, Western
Holds the U Sports record for most field goals of all-time. Has drawn comparisons to Lirim Hajrullahu, given they attended the same school and perform all three kicking duties. Attended the College Gridiron Showcase in January. Considered by many to be the best Canadian kicking prospect of the past five years.
Great pick here with Winnipeg taking a player who never should have fallen to the fifth round. Justin Medlock isn’t going to kick forever and Liegghio is the perfect heir apparent. A
5 (40) B.C. Lions — OL Matt Guevremont, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Top-heavy blocker who played left tackle with the Crimson Hawks and right tackle with the Malone Pioneers, but projects as a CFL guard. Doesn’t move brilliantly, but plays a smash-mouth style sought after by some teams.
The Lions finally address the offensive line position, taking a guy who’s played just about every position up front. I’m not sure he’s the best option available, but still a solid add. B-
5 (41) Edmonton Eskimos — K/P Dante Brown, Fort Hays State
Mississauga native who went 47 of 56 on field goals (83.9 percent) in 35 games with the Tigers. Booted a 56-yard field goal as a senior. Also a capable punter, averaging 42.4 yards gross per punt during his collegiate career.
This pick makes perfect sense considering how much the Eskimos are pay Sean Whyte. Brown’s a solid placekicker who could push for work as early as 2020. A-
5 (42) Toronto Argonauts (via Montreal) — RB Dion Pellerin, Waterloo
Rushed for 977 yards in 2019 behind a young Warriors offensive line. Has deceptive speed for a 225-pounder, along with the ability to make quick cuts in traffic. Was recruited by Regina and Queen’s as a linebacker coming out of high school. Doesn’t project as an every-down ball carrier, but should become a solid CFL fullback and special teamer.
One of my sleeper picks. Pellerin will contribute in a lot of different ways for the Argos. A
Slender receiver who recorded 2,047 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns with the Axemen. Played a lot of field-side wideout but was still a popular target of Hunter Guenard. Runs well for his size (six-foot-four, 200 pounds).
This pick is a bit of a surprise, but there’s no questioning Hastings’ height and speed. Could give Shaq Johnson some competition at field-side wide receiver. B
5 (44) Saskatchewan Roughriders — DB Vincent Dethier, McGill
Posted 123 tackles, four sacks, and two interceptions in 31 career games and posted a jaw-dropping 28 reps on the bench press on his virtual pro day. Lacks elite cover skills but should contribute on special teams.
The Riders needed to add depth behind Mike Edem at safety and Dethier can provide that while also contributing on special teams. B+
5 (45) Hamilton Tiger-Cats — OL Joseph Bencze, McMaster
Local blocker who will be a project for a team that likes to bring its offensive linemen along slowly. Converted defensive tackle who will need patience to develop. B-
5 (46) Winnipeg Blue Bombers — DE Nicholas Dheilly, Saskatchewan
A former member of the Regina Rams and Okanagan Sun who was named a 2019 first-team Canada West all-star. Has a good burst off the line and consistently gets the edge – sometimes to a fault. Uses his wingspan effectively.
Pursues well in the run game and can get skinny in the hole. Will need to contribute on special teams. A bit lanky at six-foot-five and 230 pounds; could stand to add weight.
Winnipeg lost Jonathon Kongbo to the NFL this winter; though Dheilly’s not at the same level, he should help the team as a rotational defensive lineman. B
Big-bodied tackler who tested relatively well at the Ontario regional combine, posting a 7.00-second three-cone drill at 229 pounds. The Redblacks continue to add help on special teams, which is wise. Cowan brings size and pretty decent speed. B
6 (48) Toronto Argonauts — REC Samuel Baker, Saskatchewan
The native of Esterhazy, SK struggled through injuries, but still managed to record 70 receptions for 980 yards and 12 touchdowns with the Huskies. Considered a sleeper by our draft analyst JC Abbott. B+
6 (49) Montreal Alouettes (via B.C.) — OL Andrew Becker, Regina
3DownNation’s #25 prospect.
Has impressive versatility with experience at centre and both guard spots. Arguably the draft’s most athletic offensive lineman, though some scouts would like to see him get thicker in his lower body.
His stock fell due to concussion concerns, without which he may have been a first-round pick. If he stays healthy, this pick will be a steal for Montreal. A
6 (50) Edmonton Eskimos — OL Chris Gangarossa, Wagner
3DownNation’s #13 prospect.
The six-foot-five, 305-pound blocker is versatile, having played guard, right tackle, and left tackle with the Seahawks. He needs to continue building his lower body, but Gangarossa is an imposing blocker who is capable of beating defenders with power and technique. The first member of his family to graduate with a four-year college degree. Read his full draft profile here.
Frankly, I’m shocked to see Gangarossa on the board this late. He’s the perfect fit for a team that play Matt O’Donnell and Kyle Saxelid at guard and tackle. A
6 (51) Montreal Alouettes — LB Jersey Henry, Concordia
Slight-framed defender (six-foot, 205 pounds) who could end up rotating at linebacker or safety. Posted 119 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and three sacks with the Stingers in 23 career games. B-
6 (52) Calgary Stampeders — DT Andrew Seinet-Spaulding, McGill
The reigning J.P. Metras Trophy winner was a one-man wrecking crew in 2019. He moves well for his six-foot, 285-pound frame and uses leverage to overpower opposing blockers. His lack of height hurt his draft stock, but he should still be an effective player in the CFL.
Nice depth pick for a team that could use another rotational player behind Derek Wiggan and 2019 second-round pick Vincent Desjardins. B+
6 (53) Saskatchewan Roughriders — RB/FB Jonathan Femi-Cole, Western
Transferred to the Mustangs after playing sparingly during two seasons with Minnesota. Served as a backup to Trey Humes in 2019. Shows impressive balance of speed and power with one-cut ability. A solid frame (six-foot, 215 pounds) will allow him to contribute on special teams.
Nice pick for a team that uses Kienan LaFrance in a rotational and special teams role. Femi-Cole can get you out of a game as a ball carrier and do a lot of the things you’d expect from a fullback. B+
6 (54) Hamilton Tiger-Cats — DB Jean Ventose, UBC
Six-foot, 208-pound cover man who put up some solid testing numbers at his virtual pro day, including 18 reps on the bench press. B
6 (55) Winnipeg Blue Bombers — LB Kyle Rodger, Ottawa
Lean tackler who put up 113 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss and four sacks with the Gee-Gees. Should contribute on special teams. B
7 (56) Ottawa Redblacks — DE Rashaan Davis, Ottawa
Quick off the edge and pursues well in the run game. Lacks pass rushing moves and doesn’t win one-on-ones consistently. Occasionally played three-technique with the Gee-Gees on second and long. Projects as a CFL special teams player. B+
7 (57) Edmonton Eskimos (via Toronto) — OL Nick Summach, Saskatchewan
Moves moderately for his frame (six-foot-eight, 330 pounds) but would benefit from shedding weight. Has good balance but plays a little too upright. Not punishing enough in the run game. Hand placement is solid. Could probably play inside, but would optimally stay at tackle. B+
7 (58) B.C. Lions — RB Kayden Johnson, York
The track and field star is a two-time U Sports gold medalist in the 60-metre hurdles, which is remarkable considering he’s six-foot-three and 245 pounds. Barely played in 2019 due to concussion issues, which hurt his draft stock. Was named York’s Male Athlete of the Year in 2018.
Boom or bust pick given his injury issues. This is appropriate spot to take a flier on a player with Johnson’s natural gifts. A
7 (59) Edmonton Eskimos — DE Rossini Sangjong-Djabome, York
Made an impact as a first-year with 30 tackles and five sacks and remained a key part of the Lions’ defence over the next three seasons. Tested well at the Ontario regional combine with a 4.88 forty-yard dash and 21 reps on the bench press. A-
7 (60) Montreal Alouettes — REC Vincent Alessandrini, Concordia
Another French-Canadian for the Alouettes, this time a six-foot-two pass-catcher who will provide some depth at slotback. B-
7 (61) Calgary Stampeders — P Kieran Burnham, St. FX
A better punter than placekicker, the U Sports second-team All-Canadian averaged 42.8 yards on 52 punts in 2019. Calgary takes a flier on a potential replacement for Rob Maver. B
7 (62) Saskatchewan Roughriders — OL Jesse Lawson, Carleton
Rotated at left and right tackle for the Ravens, though he’ll likely be moved to guard at the CFL level. Relied heavily on cut blocks in the OUA. Was overpowered at times and sometimes seemed unsure of his footwork. Moves well for his six-foot-six, 305-pound frame, which makes him a prospect worth developing. B+
7 (63) Hamilton Tiger-Cats — K J.J. Molson, UCLA
The second Canadian ever chosen for the U.S. Army All-America Bowl. Made 43 of 60 field goal attempts (71.7 percent) with the Bruins along with a 62.9-yard kickoff average. Has a strong leg, but he’s erratic. An eight-generation descendant of John Molson, the founder of Molson Brewery. B
7 (64) Winnipeg Blue Bombers — DB Tanner Cadwallader, Wilfrid Laurier
Spent last season with the CJFL’s London Beefeaters. Ran a decent 4.72 forty-yard dash at the Ontario regional combine at five-foot-ten and 203 pounds. B+
8 (65) Ottawa Redblacks — OL Kétel Assé, Laval
3DownNation’s #21 prospect.
The two-time first-team All-Canadian is a finesse blocker who projects as a CFL tackle. Attended the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl in January and held a pro day in March during which he performed in front of scouts from the Chicago Bears.
Needs to continue improving his flexibility; plays too upright, which will make it tough for him to find leverage at the professional level.
Assé was likely to fall to the third or fourth round on draft day, but the eighth round seems crazy. There are concerns about whether or not the 25-year-old can play guard, but how do you argue with his size, athleticism, and All-Canadian pedigree? A+
8 (66) Montreal Alouettes (via Toronto) — DE Brock Gowanlock, Manitoba
Started his career with the Bisons as a 320-pound defensive tackle before losing 90 pounds. Started over Chris Larsen and Samson Abbott in 2019, both of whom were selected in last year’s CFL draft. Shows good use of push-pull and has enough quickness to find the edge. Generally well-disciplined in run contain. B+
8 (67) B.C. Lions — LB Damien Jamieson, York
Posted 131 totals tackles with the Lions in 30 games, also forcing four fumbles. Ran a solid 4.66 forty-yard dash at 216 pounds at the Ontario regional combine. B+
Thick-bodied blocker who registered six catches and twelve receptions as a member of the Ravens. Could be used on short yardage as a tight end. B
8 (69) Montreal Alouettes — RB Colton Klassen, Saskatchewan
Arguably the most versatile weapon in the draft given his background as a running back, receiver, and returner. Good route runner who is elusive after the catch. Relatively fast, but not a burner. Quick with good hands. Lack of size — five-foot-eight, 200 pounds — hurt his draft stock. A
8 (70) Calgary Stampeders — DB Michael Asibuo, Concordia
Five-foot-eleven, 190-pound cover man who will help out on special teams. B
One of the greatest Canadian football prospects of all-time. Started part-time with the Sooners as a freshman and sophomore, then full-time as a junior and senior. Constantly double-teamed, yet still produced.
Moves exceptionally well for his size, running a 4.79 forty-yard dash at the NFL combine at 302 pounds. Was selected in the third round of the 2020 NFL draft by the Dallas Cowboys, which means it’s unlikely he will ever sign a CFL contract.
There’s virtually no chance that Gallimore ever plays in the CFL, but taking an eighth-round flier is a small price to secure his rights. B
8 (72) Hamilton Tiger-Cats — LS Tom Schnitzler, UBC
Defensive lineman who could contribute as a long-snapper in the CFL. B+
8 (73) Winnipeg Blue Bombers — DB Bleska Kambamba, Western
2019 first-team All-Canadian who locked down the boundary cornerback spot with the Mustangs. Projects as a CFL special teams player who could contribute at field-side cornerback. Likely fell due to his size, but a steal considering his cover skills. A-
CALGARY – The Calgary Flames have re-signed defenceman Ilya Solovyov and centre Cole Schwindt, the NHL club announced Wednesday.
Solovyov signed a two-year deal which is a two-way contract in year one and a one-way deal in year two and carries an average annual value of US$775,000 at the NHL level.
Schwindt signed a one-year, two-way contract with an average annual value of $800,000 at the NHL level.
The 24-year-old Solovyov, from Mogilev, Belarus, made his NHL debut last season and had three assists in 10 games for the Flames. He also had five goals and 10 assists in 51 games with the American Hockey League’s Calgary Wranglers and added one goal in six Calder Cup playoff games.
Schwindt, from Kitchener, Ont., made his Flames debut last season and appeared in four games with the club.
The 23-year-old also had 14 goals and 22 assists in 66 regular-season games with the Wranglers and added a team-leading four goals, including one game-winning goal, in the playoffs.
Schwindt was selected by Florida in the third round, 81st overall, at the 2019 NHL draft. He came to Calgary in July 2022 along with forward Jonathan Huberdeau and defenceman MacKenzie Weegar in the trade that sent star forward Matthew Tkachuk to the Panthers.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 18, 2024.
KING CITY, Ont. – Oman scored 10 runs in the final over to edge Nepal by one wicket with just one ball remaining in ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 play Wednesday.
Kaleemullah, the No. 11 batsman who goes by one name, hit a four with the penultimate ball as Oman finished at 223 for nine. Nepal had scored 220 for nine in its 50 overs.
Kaleemullah and No. 9 batsman Shakeel Ahmed each scored five in the final over off Sompal Kami. They finished with six and 17 runs, respectively.
Opener Latinder Singh led Oman with 41 runs.
Nepal’s Gulsan Jha was named man of the match after scoring 53 runs and recording a career-best five-wicket haul. The 18-year-old slammed five sixes and three-fours in his 35-ball knock, scoring 23 runs in the 46th over alone when he hit six, six, four, two, four and one off Aqib Ilyas.
Captain Rohit Paudel led Nepal with 60 runs.
The 19th-ranked Canadians, who opened the triangular series Monday with a 103-run win over No. 17 Nepal, face No. 16 Oman on Friday, Nepal on Sunday and Oman again on Sept. 26. All the games are at the Maple Leaf Cricket Ground.
The eight World League 2 teams each play 36 one-day internationals spread across nine triangular series through December 2026. The top four sides will go through to a World Cup qualifier that will decide the last four berths in the expanded 14-team Cricket World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Canada (5-4) stands second in the World League 2 table. The 14th-ranked Dutch top the table at 6-2.
Oman (2-2 with one no-result) stands sixth, ahead of Nepal (1-5).
Canada won all four matches in its opening tri-series in February-March, sweeping No. 11 Scotland and the 20th-ranked host Emirates. But the Canadians lost four in a row to the 18th-ranked U.S. and host Netherlands in August.
Canada which debuted in the T20 World Cup this summer in the U.S. and West Indies, is looking to get back to the showcase 50-over Cricket World Cup for the first time since 2011 after failing to qualify for the last three editions. The Canadian men also played in the 1979, 2003 and 2007 tournaments, exiting after the group stage in all four tournament appearances.
The Canadian men regained their one-day international status for the first time in almost a decade by finishing in the top four of the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier Playoff in April 2023 in Bermuda.
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This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 18, 2024
PENTICTON, B.C. – Rick Tocchet has already warned his Vancouver Canucks players — the looming NHL season won’t be easy.
The team made strides last year, the head coach said Wednesday ahead of training camp. The bar has been raised for this year’s campaign.
“To get to the next plateau, there are higher expectations and it’s going to be hard. We know that,” Tocchet said in Penticton, B.C., where the team will open its camp on Thursday.
“So that’s the next level. It starts day one (on Thursday). My thing is don’t waste a rep out there.”
The Canucks finished atop the Pacific Division with a 50-23-9 record last season, then ousted the Nashville Predators from the playoffs in a gritty, six-game first-round series. Vancouver then fell to the Edmonton Oilers in a seven-game second-round set.
Last fall, Jim Rutherford, the Canucks president of hockey operations, said everything would have to go right for the team to make a playoff push. That doesn’t change this season, he said, despite last year’s success.
“The challenges will be greater, certainly. But I believe the team that we started with last year, we have just as good a team to start the season this year and probably better,” he said.
“As long as the team builds off what they did last year, stick to what the coaches tell them, stick to the system, stick together in good times and bad times, this team has a chance to do pretty well.”
Some key players will be missing as Vancouver’s training camp begins, however.
Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin announced Wednesday that star goalie Thatcher Demko will not be on the ice when the team begins it’s pre-season preparation.
Allvin did not disclose the reason for Demko’s absence, but said the 28-year-old American has been making progress.
“He’s been in working extremely hard and he seems to be in a great mindset,” the GM said.
Demko missed several weeks of the regular season and much of Vancouver’s playoff run last spring with a knee injury.
The six-foot-four, 192-pound goalie has a career 213-116-81 regular-season record with a .912 save percentage, a 2.79 goals-against average and eight shutouts across seven seasons with the Canucks.
Allvin also announced that veteran centre Teddy Blueger and defensive prospect Cole McWard will also miss the start of training camp after each had “minor lower-body surgery.”
Vancouver previously announced winger Dakota Joshua won’t be present for the start of camp as he recovers from surgery for testicular cancer.
Tocchet said he’ll have no problem filling the holes, and plans to switch his lines up a lot in Penticton.
“Nothing’s set in stone,” he said. “I think it’s important that you have different puzzles at different times.”
The coach added that he expects standout centre Elias Pettersson to begin on a line with Canucks newcomer Jake DeBrusk.
Vancouver inked DeBrusk, a former Boston Bruins forward, to a seven-year, US$38.5 million deal when the NHL’s free agent market opened on July 1.
The glare on Pettersson is expected to be bright once again as he enters the first year of a new eight-year, $92.8 million contract. The 25-year-old Swede struggled at times last season and put 89 points (34 goals, 55 assists) in 82 games.
Rutherford said he was impressed with how Pettersson looked when he returned to Vancouver ahead of camp.
“He seems to be a guy that’s more relaxed and more comfortable. And for obvious reasons,” said the president of hockey ops. “This is a guy that I believe has worked really hard this summer. He’s done everything he can to play as a top-line player. … The expectation for him is to be one of the top players on our team.”
A number of Canucks hit milestones last season, including Quinn Hughes, who led all NHL defencemen in scoring with 92 points and won the Norris Trophy as the league’s top blue liner.
Several players could once again have career-best years for Vancouver, Tocchet said, but they’ll need to be consistent and not allow frustration to creep in when things go wrong.
“You’ve just got to drive yourself every day when you have a great year,” the coach said. “You’ve got to keep creating that environment where they can achieve those goals, whatever they are. And the main goal is winning. That’s really what it comes down to.”
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 18, 2024.
