In a notable trade move that highlights strategic adjustments for both teams, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats have acquired Global punter Kaare Vedvik from the Saskatchewan Roughriders, sending American quarterback Antonio Pipkin in return. Both teams made the official announcement on Sunday.
Kaare Vedvik’s Journey to the Ti-Cats
The six-foot-three, 210-pound Norwegian native, Vedvik, 29, brings with him a strong punting record. Suited up in 22 games for the Roughriders over three seasons (2021-2023), he has a total of 135 punts for 6,048 yards. Vedvik, who originally landed in the CFL after being selected by the Riders in the 2021 CFL Global Draft, has also spent time in the NFL with teams including the New York Jets, Minnesota Vikings, and Baltimore Ravens.
The Tiger-Cats welcomed Vedvik as they announced that punter Bailey Flint has been added to the suspended list. Vedvik’s collegiate football experience at Marshall University, where he completed 62.5% of field goal attempts and added 129 punts for 5,397 yards, will surely contribute to his performance with his new team.
Antonio Pipkin Heads to Roughriders
Pipkin’s transition to the Roughriders comes at a crucial moment as Saskatchewan faced a blow with franchise quarterback Trevor Harris suffering a potentially season-ending injury. With Pipkin’s addition, the Riders gain a seasoned player with five years of CFL experience, having previously played for teams including the Montreal Alouettes, Edmonton Elks, Toronto Argonauts, and B.C. Lions.
Most recently, the six-foot-three, 225-pound Indiana native played four games with the B.C Lions in 2022, accumulating 29 completions for 393 yards and two passing touchdowns, alongside 43 carries for 137 yards and seven rushing touchdowns. Pipkin’s total CFL career boasts 1,846 passing yards and six touchdowns, with 128 carries for 586 yards and 21 touchdowns.
Pipkin’s college days at Tiffin University were remarkable, where he registered 10,941 passing yards and 88 touchdowns. His dual-threat ability as both a passer and a rusher may well serve the Roughriders, especially with the recent injuries to their quarterback lineup.
Looking Forward
This trade reflects both teams’ midseason strategies and needs. For the Tiger-Cats, who are opening Week 10 with a matchup against the Edmonton Elks on Thursday, Aug. 17, the addition of Vedvik may lead to enhancements in their special teams.
The Roughriders, however, are looking to stabilize their quarterback situation as they approach the final game of the week on Sunday, Aug. 20, against the BC Lions in Regina.
The trade surely adds excitement to the unfolding CFL season and exemplifies how roster adjustments can dynamically change the landscape of the league. With both Vedvik and Pipkin set to prove their worth in their respective new environments, CFL fans are in for a thrilling continuation of the season.
