College football in Colorado is carving out an unexpected but influential legacy in professional football—just not exclusively in the NFL. As more Canadian Football League (CFL) teams cast their scouting nets beyond traditional pipelines, a clear trend has emerged: Colorado programs are quietly becoming goldmines for under-the-radar talent.
With players like Mustafa Johnson, Mason Pierce, Ayden Eberhardt, and John Matocha making their mark north of the border, the CFL is discovering a new wave of capable, determined, and often overlooked athletes.
Mustafa Johnson: Colorado Star Finds CFL Spotlight
Mustafa Johnson’s journey from Boulder to the CFL proves that elite talent doesn’t need the NFL to thrive. The former University of Colorado defensive tackle, known for his raw strength and disruptive presence on the line, now suits up for the Montreal Alouettes.
In college, Johnson tallied 17 sacks and 32 tackles for loss in four seasons with the Buffaloes—impressive numbers that made him one of the Pac-12’s most formidable linemen.
Despite his production, NFL scouts overlooked Johnson during the draft process, in part due to concerns over size and scheme fit. But those doubts haven’t followed him to Canada. Johnson has become an impact player for Montreal, bringing relentless pressure and experience to the Alouettes’ front. His work ethic, versatility, and proven production in high-stakes Pac-12 games are translating well to the CFL’s faster, wide-field game.
The top sportsbook apps in Colorado have begun to feature more CFL coverage and player markets, particularly as local fans track familiar names like John Matocha and Mustafa Johnson transitioning into the Canadian league. It’s a sign that even outside the NFL spotlight, regional pride in homegrown talent remains strong—and the CFL is quickly becoming part of that broader football conversation.
Mason Pierce: Mines to the Argonauts
Mason Pierce is another standout fueling the Colorado-to-CFL movement. Coming out of Colorado School of Mines, a program best known for its academic rigor and Division II football dominance, Pierce brought grit, speed, and adaptability to every snap. His ability to contribute on both special teams and defense caught the attention of the Toronto Argonauts.
At Mines, Pierce played both cornerback and safety, often shadowing top receivers while delivering punishing hits. His senior season showcased his ball-hawking instincts, with multiple pass breakups and critical stops. Despite not playing at the FBS level, his technical precision and mental sharpness positioned him as a sleeper prospect.
With Toronto, Pierce is proving that Division II athletes can not only hang with CFL talent but excel. His presence on special teams and as a rotational DB gives the Argonauts both depth and flexibility—two commodities highly valued in the Canadian game.
Ayden Eberhardt: Wyoming Roots, BC Bound
Though Wyoming isn’t a Colorado school by geography, its recruiting and playing connections across the region are undeniable. Ayden Eberhardt, a wide receiver from the University of Wyoming, now plays for the BC Lions and further reinforces the broader Rocky Mountain influence on the CFL.
Eberhardt’s collegiate career included 50 receptions for 764 yards and two touchdowns across multiple seasons with the Cowboys. While those numbers may not leap off the stat sheet, his consistency, route-running, and clutch playmaking stood out. He developed a reputation as a reliable third-down target and was a vocal leader in the locker room.
Now with the BC Lions, Eberhardt brings that same dependability and veteran mindset to a team eager for versatile receiving options. His transition underscores how regional players, even from less nationally prominent programs, can earn meaningful roles in the CFL.
John Matocha: The Next Big CFL Quarterback?
John Matocha, the electrifying quarterback for Colorado School of Mines, has already etched his name into NCAA Division II history—and now he’s on the radar of CFL scouts. Matocha’s numbers are staggering: over 15,000 career passing yards and 162 total touchdowns, which include both passing and rushing scores.
Matocha’s poise in the pocket, vision, and dual-threat capabilities have made him the most decorated quarterback in Mines history. His mechanics, quick release, and ability to read defenses suggest a pro-ready skillset tailored for the CFL’s open-field style. Scouts across Canada have taken notice, with whispers growing louder that he could be a top CFL prospect in the coming draft cycle.
His football IQ and leadership have made Mines perennial championship contenders. If signed, Matocha could be a rare Division II quarterback to transition seamlessly into a professional league, bringing excitement and energy to the Canadian gridiron.
Colorado’s Role in Shaping CFL Recruiting Trends
The emergence of Colorado talent in the CFL is no coincidence. Teams across Canada are adjusting their recruiting strategies, looking past the NFL-saturated FBS ranks and toward smaller programs where hidden gems reside. Colorado is now firmly on that map.
The combination of strong Division II programs like Mines, underdog FBS squads like Colorado State, and resurgent powerhouses like the University of Colorado creates a diverse player pool. These athletes often develop grit and versatility—traits ideal for the CFL’s unique gameplay demands.
As CFL general managers become more aggressive in targeting talent outside the NCAA mainstream, Colorado’s elevation from overlooked region to scouting hotbed is gaining traction.
Why the CFL Appeals to Colorado Players
For many Colorado athletes, the CFL represents more than just a fallback—it’s a legitimate platform to extend a football career. Players like Mustafa Johnson and Mason Pierce weren’t given long looks by the NFL despite impressive college résumés, but they’ve found purpose and opportunity in Canada.
The CFL’s pace, wider field, and emphasis on athletic versatility often favor players who may not fit traditional NFL molds but thrive under different conditions. Colorado athletes, known for their adaptability and mental toughness, often transition smoothly into this environment.
And with CFL contracts offering real playing time and visibility, the league has become more than just an option—it’s a proving ground.
