8 wCFL Stars Who Could Be Traded Before the Deadline

With the CFL playoff race tightening and several teams already battling injuries, contract decisions, and depth issues, the trade deadline is shaping up to be one of the most dramatic in recent years. A handful of big-name players could realistically be on the move as contenders look to load up — and rebuilding teams eye future assets.

Here are eight CFL stars who could be traded before the deadline, and why their names are suddenly in the rumour mill.

1. Dalton Schoen – WR, Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Schoen has established himself as one of the league’s most productive receivers, but his contract status and Winnipeg’s inconsistent season have sparked interest across the CFL. If the Bombers decide to reshape their roster for the future, Schoen could be their most valuable trade chip.

Why he could move: Winnipeg may need draft capital to retool.
Best fits: B.C. Lions, Ottawa Redblacks.

2. Ka’Deem Carey – RB, Calgary Stampeders

Once the league’s most dynamic running back, Carey has battled injuries but remains a top-tier talent when healthy. Calgary’s offensive identity has shifted, and they may prefer to develop younger backs.

Why he could move: Salary + age + Calgary’s youth movement.
Best fits: Montreal Alouettes, Saskatchewan Roughriders.

3. Cam Judge – LB, Calgary Stampeders

Judge is a ratio-breaking defensive star who instantly elevates any defence. With his contract nearing its end, contenders are watching his situation closely.

Why he could move: High trade value + expiring deal.
Best fits: Toronto Argonauts, B.C. Lions.

4. Shawn Lemon – DL, Montreal Alouettes

The veteran pass rusher can still produce — and playoff-bound teams always crave pressure specialists. Lemon is a perfect rental for a team chasing a Grey Cup.

Why he could move: Montreal may choose long-term development over renting veterans.
Best fits: Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

5. Nick Arbuckle – QB, Ottawa Redblacks

Ottawa’s depth at quarterback has pushed Arbuckle into the background, but several teams would value an experienced backup for the stretch run.

Why he could move: Ottawa’s QB logjam + low cost.
Best fits: Edmonton Elks, Calgary Stampeders.

6. Adarius Pickett – LB, Ottawa Redblacks

Pickett has been Ottawa’s most consistent defender, but the retooling Redblacks could move a veteran starter if the right offer arrives.

Why he could move: Ottawa might choose draft assets over keeping a veteran on an expiring contract.
Best fits: Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Toronto Argonauts.

7. Eugene Lewis – WR, Edmonton Elks

Lewis is still one of the CFL’s premier receivers, but Edmonton continues to rebuild. A contending team desperate for a WR1 could easily come calling.

Why he could move: Contract value + rebuilding timeline mismatch.
Best fits: Saskatchewan Roughriders, Calgary Stampeders.

8. Steven Dunbar Jr. – WR, Hamilton Tiger-Cats

Hamilton’s up-and-down season has raised questions about their core. Dunbar’s talent and production make him one of the most attractive mid-season upgrades available.

Why he could move: Hamilton may reset their roster if playoff hopes fade.
Best fits: B.C. Lions, Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

Final Thoughts

The CFL trade deadline is often quieter than fans expect — but this year could be different. With multiple teams stuck in the middle and several stars on expiring contracts, the perfect storm is forming for a chaotic finish.

Whether it’s a blockbuster WR deal or a savvy defensive rental, expect at least a few of these names to be in the headlines before the deadline passes.