The 2025 CFL Draft is set to take place on April 29, with teams looking to secure the next wave of Canadian talent. With prospects emerging from U Sports, NCAA programs, and international leagues, this draft promises to shape the future of the CFL. Here’s a team-by-team breakdown of what each franchise needs and how they might approach their selections.
BC Lions
- Draft Picks: No. 7, 15, 23, 31
- Needs: Defensive backfield, offensive line depth
- Outlook: The Lions are expected to target Jackson Findlay (DB, Western) to strengthen their secondary. They may also look at Arvin Hosseini (OL, UBC) to add protection for their quarterbacks.
Calgary Stampeders
- Draft Picks: No. 1, 9, 17, 25, 33
- Needs: Linebacker, defensive line
- Outlook: Calgary holds the No. 1 overall pick and is expected to select Connor Shay (LB, Wyoming), a Canadian-born linebacker with NFL potential. They may also target Darien Newell (DL, Queen’s) to bolster their pass rush.
Edmonton Elks
- Draft Picks: No. 4, 12, 20, 28, 36
- Needs: Wide receiver, defensive back
- Outlook: Edmonton could look at Ethan Jordan (REC, Laurier) to add a reliable pass-catcher. Eric Cumberbatch (DB, Ottawa) is another strong option to reinforce their secondary.
Hamilton Tiger-Cats
- Draft Picks: No. 2, 10, 18, 26, 34
- Needs: Defensive line, offensive playmakers
- Outlook: Hamilton is likely to select Darien Newell (DL, Queen’s) with their first pick. They may also look at Keelan White (REC, Montana) to add a dynamic receiving threat.
Montreal Alouettes
- Draft Picks: No. 6, 14, 22, 30, 38
- Needs: Offensive line, linebacker depth
- Outlook: Montreal could target Silas Hubert (DL, Queen’s) to strengthen their front seven. Avontae McKoy (REC, York) is another intriguing prospect for their offense.
Ottawa Redblacks
- Draft Picks: No. 3, 11, 19, 27, 35
- Needs: Wide receiver, defensive versatility
- Outlook: Ottawa may look at Keelan White (REC, Montana) to add a playmaker. Luka Stoikos (FB, Toronto) could be a sleeper pick for their special teams.
Saskatchewan Roughriders
- Draft Picks: No. 5, 13, 21, 29, 37
- Needs: Offensive line, defensive backfield
- Outlook: Saskatchewan could prioritize Ty Anderson (DL, McMaster) to strengthen their trenches. Nate Beauchemin (DB, Calgary) is another strong option for their secondary.
Toronto Argonauts
- Draft Picks: No. 8, 16, 24, 32
- Needs: Offensive line, defensive playmakers
- Outlook: Toronto may target Hassane Dosso (REC, Montreal) to add size and athleticism to their receiving corps. Nicholas Adair (REC, McMaster) is another intriguing prospect.
Winnipeg Blue Bombers
- Draft Picks: No. 5, 13, 21, 29, 37
- Needs: Defensive line, linebacker depth
- Outlook: Winnipeg could look at Silas Hubert (DL, Queen’s) to add pass-rushing ability. Riley MacLeod (LB, Western) is another strong option for their defense.
Draft Format & Expectations
The 2025 CFL Draft will consist of eight rounds, with teams selecting from a mix of Canadian-born players and those with CFL eligibility. With NFL interest in some top prospects, teams will need to weigh immediate availability against long-term potential.
