CFL history made as Habakkuk Baldonado lands record-setting contract for a Global player

Habakkuk Baldonado has raised the profile of Global athletes in the Canadian Football League after securing a record-breaking contract for the 2026 season.

The 26-year-old became the highest-paid Global player in CFL history after negotiating a deal with the Ottawa Redblacksworth $185,000 in guaranteed money, plus up to $9,000 in performance-based incentives. He represented himself during free agency, marking a major milestone in his career and for Global players in the league.

Baldonado described the deal as a “small win” for himself and for international athletes, saying it reflects progress and validates the work he has put in, while also stressing that there is still more to achieve.

He also reflected on his approach to negotiations, explaining that players must understand their value, stay realistic, and stand firm on their worth based on market standards.

On the field, Baldonado enjoyed his most productive CFL season to date in 2025 with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, starting five regular-season games and recording 17 tackles, four sacks, and a forced fumble. He later played a key role in the playoffs, including starts in both the West Final and the Grey Cup, helping Saskatchewan capture their fifth championship.

He revealed that he played through a serious ankle injury during the postseason, requiring pain management just to take part in the games, but insisted he pushed through for his team when they needed him most.

Despite his strong performances, Baldonado said his move away from Saskatchewan came after feeling undervalued during contract talks, though he left the door open to staying until late in the process.

He added that shortly after signing with Ottawa, he received late interest from an NFL team, but the timing meant the opportunity came too late.

Beyond his personal success, Baldonado said his goal is to help elevate the perception and value of Global players in professional football. He argued that international athletes are often underrepresented or undervalued due to league structures and labels, and said he is proud to be helping change that perception.