On Tuesday, May 29th, 2025, the Edmonton Elks began their version of the 2025 CFL Draft by selecting players for the future growth of their football club.

Before the draft, which occurred at 6:00 pm EST, the Edmonton Elks participated with their two picks in the Global Draft.

Global Draft

1st Round, 3rd Overall: Richard Jibunor, Defensive End, Troy University, (Nigeria)

Nigeria has produced great football players over the last 25 – 30 years, and Richard Jibunor is no different.

With 50 games played, a whopping 174 tackles, and 30 sacks, Richard Jibunor has a bright future in the CFL. 

2nd Round, 3rd Overall: Alex Raich, Linebacker, Kansas, (Switzerland)

He lacked playing time while at the University of Kansas, as he was rarely used. Alex Raich will be a work in progress. 

Edmonton Elks Draft Class of 2025

2nd Round, 10th Overall: Darien Newell, Defensive Lineman, Queen’s

The Brampton, Ontario, native was a force to be reckoned with during his days for the Golden Gaels.

Darien Newell was double-teamed for a good part when playing for Queen’s University.  Somehow, he was able to bullrush his way through offensive linemen and disrupt the pass, the run, or the gap.

Unfortunately, from recent reports from Global News via the Canadian Press, Darien Newell has received a year-long ban for a doping violation.

3rd Round, 22nd Overall: Skylar Griffith, Full Back, UBC

Skylar Griffith unfortunately had it tough from ACL, MCL, and meniscus injuries while at UBC.

Although he was seldom used in the running game, he excelled on special teams with 25 tackles in 12 games.  He will be a work in progress and will most likely slowly be put in a good spot for his development.

3rd Round, 24th Overall: Isaiah Knight, Running Back, UBC

His play and numbers for the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds were too good to pass on from the point of view of the Elks’ management. 

The three-time All-Star from the Canada West Conference had a stellar career at UBC with 3,603 rushing yards, followed by 21 touchdowns.

He will have to work his way through the ranks, as there is a logjam at the running back position in Edmonton with Justin Rankin and Javon Leake, respectively.  However, he might have to gain some playing time via special teams to earn extra playing time.

A great pick by the Elks, as Isaiah Knight will be learning from two great players in the backfield.  If they can somehow find about 10 snaps a game, it will be beneficial for the Elks for his growth entering his second season.   

4th Rou

Silas Hubert will be an impact player if all goes right, health-wise.  The talent is there with 33 games played, 85 total tackles, and 15 sacks.  He experienced a down year in 2023, as he had to undergo shoulder surgery on both shoulders.

On a positive note, Silas Hubert has all the tools to play at the pro level.   

5th Rou

With his natural position being left tackle, Domenico Piazza will add much-needed depth to the Edmonton Elks’ offensive line.  The offensive line was better last season, and the time is right to add more depth.

Any football fan knows that injuries are inevitable on a week–to–week basis.  Having Domenico Piazza on the depth chart will also add value to the Canadian ratio if there are multiple injuries at any given time among the offensive line.

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The 6’-4″, 300 lbs offensive lineman played tackle mainly at Guelph.  Daniel Hocevar will most likely be shifted into the interior at the guard position.   He does not come with a lot of experience, with 19 games played and 13 starts.  However, it is all about player development for the future as it begins now in training camp.

7th Round, 58th Overall: Kolby Hurford, Wide Receiver, Alberta

The Edmonton El

He has a big upside with 74 receptions, 1,254 yards, and 12 touchdowns.  Unfortunately, it will be tough to crack a roster now, as the Elks have a logjam at the wide receiver position. But then again, this is about the future.

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