Success in sports relies on mastering many metrics. With all the data that teams absorb throughout the season, teams will have spent the winter carefully analyzing their stats and looking for ways to add more touchdowns to their team. This can be prohibitively expensive for many sports teams as all the best players and big names attract a lot of attention and the high fees that go with it.
There is a smarter way though. The Free Agency period gives teams a chance to bag a bargain, and in 2025 there are a number of players on the free agent market that could bring a boost to your team and push them up the league standings. These ballers may not have achieved their potential, yet, but that is the point. In the right place, and at the right time, these boys could reach the pinnacle of the sport in your colors for dimes on the dollar.
Jared Brinkman – Toronto Argonauts – Defensive Lineman
This player is proof that experience isn’t everything. He is barely 26 years of age and has already impressed during his short time in the CFL for Toronto. His stats seem underwhelming at first, but when you take a closer look, Brinkman seems on the brink of breaking out. If this young man signs for your team, expect a change in outlook for the coming season. You could see the odds jump in your team’s favor with his signature. You can track the odds on Betway as the pre-season progresses, the Toronto Argonauts are already +240 to win the Grey Cup. If Jared Brinkman signs a contract, expect that team’s odds to tighten dramatically.
He is a more rounded player than many defensive linemen and shows potential as a pass rusher as well as a fairly consistent record for tackles. He tied with Nick Anderson for Most Outstanding Rookie in 2024 with the highest run defence grade in the CFL (91.4) according to Pro Football Focus. Brinkman has suffered his share of injuries, but he looks like he is through the woods and looking for an opportunity to play his game for a team that matches his potential.
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Shea Patterson – Saskatchewan Roughriders – Quarterback
The Roughriders found themselves without first choice quarterback Trevor Harris for much of 2024, and Shea Patterson stepped up and arguably saved their season. You would think that this would help tie up his contract for a few more years but he finds himself a free agent in 2025. He could make a big impact on a number of teams in either division as an experienced shot caller after six starts for Saskatchewan.
He is hitting the right age too. Shea Patterson will be 28 this year and looking to establish himself in a team and secure his career’s future while the league’s rising stars nip at his heels. He is not afraid to get his hands dirty on the third down or near the goal line and is known for being a determined player that will push himself to win. The Quarterback role is always tough to fill, and Patterson could be a smart and savvy signing for a team looking for something new at QB.
 Jerreth Sterns – Saskatchewan Roughriders – Receiver
This young man is the talk of the town as far as free agency goes in 2025. The Texan has picked out 83 passes for 941 yards in two seasons, and made three touchdowns in the same amount of time. These are the stats of an emerging talent, but are just the start.
In college ball, Sterns was a beast for Western Kentucky and finished his time there leading the NCAA for catches (150), receiving yards (1,902 yards), receiving yards per game (135.9 YpG), and managed to tie for receiving touchdowns too at 17. All this in just 14 games of college ball. Saskatchewan should be looking to keep him on their roster, but so far the receiver has not received an offer. Teams across both divisions should take note of the situation and start crafting a contract for Sterns. He is a game changer, and a playmaker.
This trio would be fine additions to any CFL team, and all for free. If you can find space in your roster you could put them all together and have talent you could build plays around. Where they will play ball in the 2025 season is anyone’s guess at this point.
