The Edmonton Elks made a series of transactions over the Victoria Day long weekend.

Elks sign experienced CFL QB McDonald

The team announced Monday they signed American quarterback Cole McDonald. McDonald’s last pro experience was in 2023 with the Houston Roughnecks of the XFL. The six-foot-four native of Miranda, California threw for 437 passing yards and two touchdowns in ten games (two starts).

McDonald is no stranger to playing in the Canadian Football League, previously played one game with the Toronto Argonauts in 2021 (completed four of eight pass attempts 45 yards passing).

McDonald played his collegiate football with the University of Hawaii from 2016-2019. Playing 33 games with the Warriors, McDonald recorded 8,032 yards passing and threw for 70 touchdowns. 

Elks cut Rankin, Lavoie suspended

The Elks released running back Justin Rankin and placed 2023 draft pick offensive lineman Patrick Lavoie on the suspended list on Sunday. 

Rankin was signed to the Elks last November. The Oberlin, Ohio native previously played with the Bay Area Panthers of the Indoor Football League in 2023. The six-foot-four Lavoie was a seventh-round selection by the Elks in the 2023 CFL Entry Draft. Lavoie played collegiate football in Carleton, making seven starts for the Ravens in 2023.

Hooks joins the Elks

On Saturday, the team signed American wide receiver Shane Hooks. The Florida native Hooks attended Auburn University, played 13 games for the Tigers in 2023. Hooks previously played two seasons at Jackson State, tallying 82 catches for 974 yards and 12 touchdowns.