The Edmonton Elks announced Wednesday morning that QB Taylor Cornelius has signed a 2-year extension with the club.

The Amarillo, Texas native played his college football at Oklahoma State from 2014-2018.  In 2019 he would attend the Green Bay Packers training camp.  In 2020 he would sign with the Tampa Bay Vipers of the XFL.  In February 2021 he would sign with the green and gold.

During the 2021 CFL season, Taylor Cornelius would experience his 1st start in week 7 vs the Winnipeg Blue Bombers after inconsistencies at Quarterback at the time with then starter Trevor Harris.  He would encounter struggles as well as he would complete the 2021 regular season with 143 completions on 247 attempts, with 9 TD passes, along with 13 interceptions.  However, he would show flashes for a rookie with his dual-threat abilities.

“Taylor’s a young up-and-coming quarterback,” said Elks assistant general manager Geroy Simon. “He is trending in the right direction, so we’re excited about his future with the Edmonton Elks.”

So far in the 2022 season, he would once again begin 4 on the depth chart as he competed for a start with a combination of inconstant play by once an Edmonton Elk Nick Arbuckle (traded to Ottawa), Tre Ford (injured), Kai Locksley (used more in a utility role).  Although the Edmonton Elks struggles have been consistent again in 2022 during another rebuilding year, Taylor Cornelius has showcased his value in completing 147 passes on 251 attempts, with 1936 passing yards, 8 TD passes, 6 interceptions, 291 rushing yards, and 5 TDs.    

This is a good extension by the Edmonton Elks and it will be a stepping stone for the rebuild.  Edmonton could have a good 1-2 punch with both the growth of Taylor Cornelius and Tre Ford.  Adding depth to the QB position is one of the most difficult tasks in pro football.  There is never a guarantee that a starter will complete a season due to either inconsistency or injuries.  Having both is only a positive going forward for the Edmonton Elks.

Stay in tune with CFL News Hub for the 2022 season.