WATERLOO, Ont. - Golden Hawks football will be represented by 13 football alumni on Canadian Football League (CFL) rosters with the start of the 2026 season - the most among Ontario University Athletics programs and second-most nationally behind the University of British Columbia.
Laurier manager of football operations and head coach Todd Galloway said the milestone reflects both the depth and breadth of the program's development pipeline.
"We are very proud of all of our student-athletes as they compete in the CFL," said Galloway. "Thirteen is not only an incredible number. This is a testament to their hard work and commitment to the process of always wanting to develop and get better."
"Thirteen players at eight different positions on the field, including quarterback, shows that Laurier football is helping to prepare our student-athletes for the next level should they get the chance. I wish them all luck and can't wait to watch them this season."
The group is spread across six CFL teams and features contributors at every level of experience, from established veterans to recent graduates beginning their professional careers.
The Calgary Stampeders lead all CFL clubs with four Laurier alumni, including offensive lineman Bryce Bell, long snapper Jason MacGougan, defensive back Godfrey Onyeka and receiver Jesulayomi Ojutalayo.
Defensive lineman Robbie Smith continues his career with the Edmonton Elks, while receiver Kurleigh Gittens Jr. opens the year with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
Offensive lineman Braydon Noll earned a roster spot with the Montreal Alouettes.
The Ottawa Redblacks feature three former Golden Hawks. Linebacker Josh Connors and defensive back Scott Hutter are joined by 2024 Hec Crighton Trophy winner Ethan Jordan.
With the Toronto Argonauts, fullback Sebastian Parsalidis secured a roster spot after a strong training camp.
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers feature linebacker Tanner Cadwallader and quarterback Taylor Elgersma, who continues his rise after one of the most decorated careers in Golden Hawks history.
Laurier begins the 2026 OUA football season on Saturday, August 29 when they host the Guelph Gryphons at 6 pm. Season ticket packages are on sale now at tickets.laurierathletics.com
BREAKDOWN BY CONFERENCE
OUA 61
CANADA WEST 59
RSEQ 33
AUS 10
TOTAL: 163
BREAKDOWN BY INSTITUTION
UNIVERSITY TOTAL
Acadia 1
Alberta 9
Bishop's 1
Calgary 13
Carleton 2
Concordia 3
Guelph 9
Laval 11
Manitoba 6
McGill 4
McMaster 6
Montreal 13
Mount Allison 2
Ottawa 4
Queen's 6
Regina 7
Saint Mary's 4
Saskatchewan 10
Sherbrooke 2
St. Francis Xavier 2
Toronto 2
UBC 14
Waterloo 3
Western 9
Wilfrid Laurier 13
Windsor 5
York 2
TOTAL: 163
