Top 5 CFL Players Who Deserve Bigger Contracts in 2025

As the CFL heads toward the 2025 season, several players have clearly outperformed their current deals. Whether they’ve carried their teams to big wins, become breakout stars, or proven themselves as elite playmakers, these athletes have earned the right to step into the new year with upgraded contracts.

Here are five CFL players who most deserve bigger paydays in 2025.

1. Dalton Schoen – WR, Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Schoen has consistently been one of the most reliable receivers in the league since bursting onto the scene. His route running, production in high-pressure moments, and chemistry with the Bombers’ offence have made him a major weapon. Even with defenses keying in on him, Schoen continues to put up big numbers. A player with this level of consistency should be compensated like a true No. 1 receiver.

2. Marc-Antoine Dequoy – DB, Montreal Alouettes

Dequoy has become the heart of Montreal’s secondary—fast, smart, and capable of changing a game with one play. His instincts and versatility make him one of the league’s best defensive backs. After playing a key role in the Alouettes’ success, a bump in salary feels overdue for one of the CFL’s elite defenders.

3. Brady Oliveira – RB, Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Oliveira has emerged as one of the CFL’s premier running backs, combining strength with surprising quickness. His ability to break tackles, extend drives, and contribute in the passing game makes him a complete offensive cornerstone. With his workload and production, he deserves a contract that reflects his value to Winnipeg’s attack.

4. Mathieu Betts – DL, Detroit Lions / Potential CFL Return

Betts jumped to the NFL after dominating the CFL, but his value remains enormous if he returns north. Before leaving, he was the CFL’s top pass rusher, winning Most Outstanding Defensive Player. If Betts returns to a CFL roster in 2025, he’ll immediately be worth one of the biggest defensive contracts in the league.

5. Tre Ford – QB, Edmonton Elks

Ford’s dual-threat ability electrified the CFL in 2024, and he brought life back to an Elks team desperate for momentum. His talent, poise, and playmaking ability have made him a rising star. If Ford continues on this path, Edmonton will need to pay up to keep him as their long-term franchise quarterback.

Final Thoughts

The CFL is full of talented players, but the five listed above have stood out as athletes who have earned bigger paycheques in 2025. Whether through consistency, breakout seasons, or game-changing performances, they’ve each shown they deserve to be among the league’s top-paid players.

If the off-season delivers what fans expect, 2025 could bring some major contract news across the CFL.