With the 2025 CFL Draft just days away, anticipation builds around Canada’s next crop of football talent. Teams from coast to coast are finalizing draft boards, debating final evaluations, and preparing for key roster additions. Each franchise enters the draft with unique priorities, balancing immediate needs against long-term potential.

While every pick carries uncertainty, some names already shine brighter than others. As fans gear up for draft night, here’s a closer look at the players destined to make significant impacts in the Canadian Football League this upcoming season. From dominant linemen to explosive receivers, these rising stars deserve attention as they take their first professional steps into the limelight.

Damien Alford – WR, Calgary Stampeders

Drafted first overall by Calgary, Montreal native Damien Alford brings rare athleticism and impressive measurables to the CFL. Standing six-foot-five and weighing 224 pounds, Alford clocked a remarkable 4.46-second forty-yard dash during his pro day. His size-speed combination sets him apart, enabling him to stretch the field immediately.

Although Alford’s college career lacked consistent production, catching just 67 passes over four seasons at Syracuse, his raw potential is undeniable. The Stampeders envision Alford becoming an elite vertical threat.

Even with a pending rookie mini-camp invite from the Kansas City Chiefs, his CFL ceiling remains exceptionally high. Calgary expects instant impact, and Alford has the talent to deliver it.

Connor Shay – LB, Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Connor Shay, Winnipeg’s sixth overall pick, arrives with comparisons to CFL standout Alex Singleton (who moved on from the CFL to play for the Philadelphia Eagles and Denver Broncos) on his young shoulders. The Wyoming product showcased elite athleticism at his pro day, posting a 4.52-second forty-yard dash and a 38.5-inch vertical jump. Shay’s aggressive style, combined with impressive instincts, makes him a perfect fit for Winnipeg’s defensive scheme.

Despite limited collegiate starts, Shay’s tape reveals explosive tackling ability and strong recognition skills. Initially projected as a special teams force, Shay has the upside to develop into an every-down linebacker. His dual citizenship and athletic profile mirror Singleton’s trajectory, suggesting Shay could emerge as a game-changing presence in the CFL sooner rather than later.

Keelan White – WR, Ottawa Redblacks

The Ottawa Redblacks addressed a significant need by drafting 23 year old receiver Keelan White third overall. The British Columbia native offers immediate reliability, having established himself as Montana’s MVP in 2023. White’s strength lies in route-running and sure-handed catches rather than blazing speed. Running a modest 4.60-second forty-yard dash, he compensates with precise movement and intelligence after the catch.

Bettors on platforms like FanDuel Sports will be watching closely, as scouts see parallels to CFL standouts Jalen and Tyson Philpot, players who’ve become fixtures in Canadian offenses. Given Ottawa’s thin depth behind Nick Mardner, White figures prominently in the team’s future plans, likely transitioning into a starting role within a year.

Tiger Shanks – OL, Montreal Alouettes

Montreal bolstered their offensive line by selecting UNLV standout Tiger Shanks fifth overall. Shanks, a four-year collegiate starter, stands six-foot-five and weighs 325 pounds, earning back-to-back All-Mountain West honors at left tackle. Remarkably, Shanks allowed only 11 quarterback pressures over 410 pass-blocking snaps.

Despite missing physical testing due to a hamstring injury, Shanks possesses CFL-level talent, particularly appealing after Montreal lost veterans Kristian Matte and Philippe Gagnon.

Shanks’ ability to immediately step into a crucial line position addresses Montreal’s most pressing issue. Expect Shanks to anchor the Alouettes’ front line, providing stability and high-caliber protection early in his career.

Devin Veresuk – LB, Hamilton Tiger-Cats

Linebacker Devin Veresuk’s explosive athleticism landed him second overall with Hamilton. Posting a blazing 4.47-second forty-yard dash and 27 bench press reps, Veresuk’s physical testing turned heads at Buffalo’s pro day. With 199 tackles, 11 sacks, and multiple turnovers for Windsor, Veresuk offers dynamic defensive playmaking.

According to FanDuel research, his athletic profile ranks among the top of this year’s CFL draft class. Although some question his consistent on-field explosiveness, Hamilton views Veresuk as a potential difference-maker at linebacker. His elite athleticism suggests immediate contributions on special teams, with a long-term path toward becoming a ratio-breaking starter. Hamilton badly needs stability at linebacker, positioning Veresuk for substantial snaps in his rookie CFL season.

Hayden Harris – DL, BC Lions

Despite surrendering their first-round picks due to cap violations, BC found substantial value selecting Hayden Harris 11th overall. The Montana defensive end demonstrated elite power and versatility, recording 17 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks in 2024 alone. Harris, standing six-foot-five, displayed remarkable strength at his pro day, recording 25 bench press reps and running a respectable 4.81-second forty-yard dash.

Harris fits perfectly into BC’s defensive strategy, complementing star Mathieu Betts. Though Harris signed a free-agent deal with the Buffalo Bills, his eventual CFL arrival could revolutionize the Lions’ defense. Harris’s strength and experience suggest immediate CFL readiness, capable of becoming a dominant force if the NFL path stalls.

Taylor Elgersma – QB, Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Winnipeg strategically secured their quarterback future by drafting Laurier standout Taylor Elgersma 18th overall. At six-foot-five and 227-pounds, Elgersma’s collegiate success included earning the prestigious Hec Crighton Trophy. His exceptional accuracy (70.7% completion) and strong arm attracted significant NFL interest, highlighted by an unprecedented invitation to the Senior Bowl. While NFL mini-camp invites remain, Elgersma’s CFL ceiling is immense.

Winnipeg, recognizing the need for a successor to veteran Zach Collaros, has potentially secured the ideal quarterback of the future. Elgersma’s combination of size, vision, and accuracy provides the Blue Bombers a long-term solution, positioning him as one of the most intriguing CFL prospects of 2025.

Ethan Jordan – WR, Ottawa Redblacks

A late-round steal, Ethan Jordan’s sixth-round selection surprised many given his elite collegiate production at Laurier. Jordan’s 243 catches and 27 touchdowns over four seasons highlight his exceptional reliability and consistency. Despite modest size, Jordan dazzled scouts with a 4.44-second forty-yard dash at the CFL Combine, making him one of the fastest prospects available.

Ottawa’s pick represents tremendous potential value, as Jordan instantly upgrades their receiving corps. His collegiate chemistry with Elgersma hints at his capacity to quickly integrate into Ottawa’s passing game. Jordan’s talent suggests he’ll swiftly outplay his draft position, becoming a household CFL name.

Players Poised for Stardom

As the CFL moves toward the 2025 season, these rookies stand at the forefront of their teams’ plans. From Damien Alford’s game-changing speed in Calgary to Tiger Shanks anchoring Montreal’s offensive line, each rookie offers distinct advantages that could redefine their franchises.

Success isn’t guaranteed, but talent and oppo

rtunity intersect perfectly for these promising newcomers. Tuesday’s draft marks their first steps into professional careers, setting the stage for thrilling seasons ahead. Fans should watch closely as these rising stars prepare to make their mark, reshaping Canada’s football landscape one highlight-reel play at a time.