CFL season begins Thursday with Grey Cup up for grabs
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CFL.ca Game Notes: What are the numbers saying ahead of Week 1?
The Canadian Football League (CFL) is set to commence its 2026 season on Thursday, with the Grey Cup once again a central focus. The league experienced significant parity in 2025, where six of the nine teams concluded the season with 10, 11, or 12 wins. This trend of competitive balance is anticipated to continue, potentially making the upcoming season even more closely contested.
Several teams have made moves during the off-season to bolster their rosters and coaching staff. The Edmonton Elks are reportedly on an upward trajectory, while the Toronto Argonauts are expected to improve with the return of quarterback Chad Kelly. Kelly, who was sidelined last season due to a broken leg, had previously stated his belief in being among the top 32 starting quarterbacks in the NFL.
Team Preparations and Expectations
The Ottawa Redblacks have also made significant changes, aiming for a much-improved season. Their off-season acquisitions include new head coach Ryan Dinwiddie, running back Greg Bell, and a revamped defence. Key defensive additions feature rush end Luiji Vilain, linebackers Nyles Morgan, A.J. Allen, and C.J. Reavis, as well as defensive lineman Habakkuk Baldonado. The Redblacks are looking to rebound after missing the playoffs last season with a 4-14 record.
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats, coming off an 11-7 record and a first-place finish in the East Division in 2025, are poised with an explosive offence and an improved defence. Quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell, 36, continues to be a key player for the team. The addition of American left tackle Trevor Reid and the signing of centre Chris Kolankowski are expected to strengthen their offensive line. However, veteran linebacker Wynton McManis will miss the season opener against the Montreal Alouettes.
The Montreal Alouettes, who finished 2025 with a 10-8 record and reached the Grey Cup game, will rely on quarterback Davis Alexander, who holds an 11-0 career record in regular-season starts. The team has largely retained its veteran core, and the addition of Ottawa native Jonathan Sutherland is expected to enhance their secondary. Return specialist DeVonte Dedmon has also joined the Alouettes from the Redblacks.
The Toronto Argonauts, who missed the playoffs last season with a 5-13 record, have added depth at quarterback with Nick Arbuckle alongside Kelly. Former Redblacks star Adarius Pickett returns to Toronto, expected to boost special teams and defence. The defence also sees the re-signing of lineman Ralph Holley and the arrival of veteran cornerback DaShaun Amos. The offensive line has been bolstered by Dakoda Shepley, who played three games with Dallas in 2024.
In the West Division, the Saskatchewan Roughriders finished first last season with a 12-6 record, ultimately winning the Grey Cup. The B.C. Lions, who were second in the West with an 11-7 record, feature Canadian quarterback Nathan Rourke, who leads an explosive offence. Wide receiver Stanley (Stack) Berryhill is expected to build on his breakout year, and James Butler provides a strong running back option. Linebacker Darnell Sankey and lineman Casey Sayles are key defensive players.
The Calgary Stampeders, with an 11-7 record last season, possess a strong defence, with quarterback Vernon Adams being central to their offensive success. Receiver Dejon Brissett is anticipated to be a primary target. Returner Tyreik McAllister is noted for his electrifying play, and the full-time return of defensive lineman Jaylon Hutchings from the NFL is expected to be impactful.
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers, who had a 10-8 record in 2025, are looking to rebound. Quarterback Zach Collaros is expected to regain his form, working with former Redblacks offensive coordinator Tommy Condell. Tim White, signed after four 1000-yard seasons with Hamilton, will be a target for Collaros. Offensive line protection will be provided by Jarell Broxton, and former Elks defensive player Jake Ceresna is a player to watch.
The Edmonton Elks, who missed the playoffs with a 7-11 record last season, aim to build on their second-half performance from 2025. Quarterback Cody Fajardo, 34, will again lead the offence. Key additions include rush end Malik Carney, wide receiver Austin Mack, and offensive lineman Coulter Woodmansey.
Grey Cup Odds and Predictions
While some experts suggest the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and B.C. Lions, the teams with the longest current championship droughts, could meet in the 113th Grey Cup game in Calgary on November 15, oddsmakers present a different outlook. The Montreal Alouettes are currently listed as the favourites to win the Grey Cup at +320, meaning a $100 bet would return $420, including the initial investment.
The odds for other teams to win the Grey Cup are as follows:
- B.C. Lions: +380
- Saskatchewan Roughriders: +600
- Hamilton Tiger-Cats: +650
- Winnipeg Blue Bombers: +750
- Calgary Stampeders: +850
- Ottawa Redblacks: +950
- Toronto Argonauts: +1100
- Edmonton Elks: +1900
The 2026 CFL season officially begins on Thursday.
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