Pending Free Agent Challenges Across the CFL: Decisions for 2025

As the 2025 season approaches, Canadian Football League (CFL) teams are faced with critical decisions regarding player retention and roster changes. With 244 players on expiring contracts, the league is gearing up for a transformative free agency period set to begin on February 11, 2025. While many players are expected to renew contracts with their current teams, a significant number will explore opportunities with other franchises, potentially reshaping team dynamics across the league.

Team-by-Team Outlook

B.C. Lions
The Lions, with 29 players set to hit free agency, have already addressed their quarterback position by trading Vernon Adams Jr. Now, their focus shifts to retaining standout talents like defensive lineman Mathieu Betts, receiver Justin McInnis, and defensive backs Garry Peters and T.J. Lee. Offensive linemen Sukh Chung, Kent Perkins, and Michael Couture are also priorities for extending support to quarterback Nathan Rourke. Additionally, running back William Stanback could play a pivotal role in the team’s offensive strategy next season.

Calgary Stampeders
After missing the playoffs for the first time in two decades, Calgary faces a challenging offseason with 30 free agents. The acquisition of Vernon Adams Jr. from the Lions has stabilized their quarterback position, but decisions loom for backups Jake Maier and Tommy Stevens, alongside recent signee P.J. Walker. Other key players such as running backs Dedrick Mills and Peyton Logan, linebacker Micah Awe, and defensive backs Brandon Dozier and Tre Roberson will also demand attention.

Edmonton Elks
The Elks face crucial choices as 30 of their players approach free agency. With both quarterbacks Tre Ford and McLeod Bethel-Thompson on expiring contracts, Edmonton must reassess its quarterback strategy. Key offensive contributors, including receiver Eugene Lewis and running back/return specialist Javon Leake, along with defensive leaders like linebacker Nyles Morgan and safety Loucheiz Purifoy, add to the team’s offseason challenges.

Saskatchewan Roughriders
Quarterback uncertainty dominates the Roughriders’ offseason, with both Trevor Harris and backup Shea Patterson set to become free agents. This decision will significantly shape Saskatchewan’s direction in 2025. Additionally, the Riders must address defensive gaps, as linebacker Jameer Thurman, defensive back Marcus Sayles, and safety Nelson Lokombo lead a list of 32 expiring contracts. Offensive considerations include extending deals for center Peter Godber, tackle Trevon Tate, and receiver Mitch Picton.

Eastern Division Focus

Winnipeg Blue Bombers
With quarterback Zach Collaros secure for 2025, Winnipeg’s attention turns to retaining critical contributors from its 27 free agents, including backup quarterback Chris Streveler and receivers Kenny Lawler and Dalton Schoen. Veteran defensive players like Willie Jefferson and Adam Bighill, along with offensive linemen Patrick Neufeld and Stanley Bryant, are also integral to their plans.

Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Hamilton has relatively fewer free agents, with just 17 players facing uncertain futures. Notable among them are running back James Butler, receiver Steven Dunbar Jr., and defensive back Richard Leonard. Maintaining depth in these key areas will be a priority for the team as it prepares for next season.

Toronto Argonauts
Fresh off a Grey Cup victory, the Argonauts have 24 players approaching free agency, including defensive standouts Wynton McManis and DaShaun Amos. On offense, receivers Damonte Coxie and Janarion Grant, along with running back Ka’Deem Carey, are key players yet to secure contracts. The team will also have to decide the future of backup quarterback and Grey Cup MVP Nick Arbuckle, as Chad Kelly recovers from injury.

Ottawa Redblacks and Montreal Alouettes
The Redblacks, with 31 free agents, have clarity at quarterback with Dru Brown expected to lead next season, but decisions remain for backups Dustin Crum and Jeremiah Masoli. Top receivers like Justin Hardy and Jaelon Acklin, along with defensive stalwarts like Lorenzo Mauldin IV, add to Ottawa’s offseason workload. Meanwhile, Montreal must resolve the status of quarterback Cody Fajardo while managing 24 free agents, including defensive backs Kabion Ento and Wesley Sutton and running back Walter Fletcher.

Looking Ahead

As free agency approaches, the stakes are high for CFL teams to solidify their rosters and address key positional needs. While some franchises will focus on retaining their core players, others may seize the opportunity to bring fresh talent into the fold, shaping the landscape of the league for the upcoming season.