CFLPA report card reveals huge Elks turnaround as Redblacks fall behind

The Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) has released its second annual team report card, allowing CFL players to anonymously grade all nine franchises across 10 categories.

Winners: Four teams improved their overall marks in 2025. Hamilton Tiger-Cats retained the top spot with a B+, while Edmonton Elks surged from last place (D+) to fifth overall with a B-, following major organizational changes including a new president, general manager, and head coach.

Edmonton’s dramatic rise was highlighted by major improvements in team travel (from D- to A+), nutrition (C-), and training camp (C+). Calgary Stampeders and B.C. Lions also recorded improved grades in key areas.

Losers: The Ottawa Redblacks and Montreal Alouettes saw declines. Ottawa, previously third with a B-, fell to C, struggling in coaching staff (C-) and football operations. Montreal received poor marks for family support and training facilities. B.C. Lions were the only team besides Edmonton to record an F, in nutrition & diet.

Highlights & Criticism:

• Edmonton’s rehab planning was flagged as inconsistent despite overall improvement.

• Redblacks had logistical issues during training camp at Queen’s University.

• Montreal faced harsh criticism for training room quality and family support.

• Players noted disparities in compensation for appearances, with Saskatchewan and B.C. citing underpayment or delays.

• Positive notes included Hamilton’s Thanksgiving dinner for players and families, Calgary’s nutrition program improvements, and Winnipeg’s upgraded travel arrangements.

Methodology:
The CFLPA survey included 78 questions, spanning 10 categories: Coaching Staff; Football Operations; Ownership & Business Operations; Facilities & Equipment; Therapy & Medical Staff; Strength & Conditioning; Nutrition & Diet; Team Travel; Training Camp; and Treatment of Families. Responses were anonymous, and 381 players participated, down from 495 in 2024. The survey was analyzed in collaboration with Dr. Desmond McEwan, PhD, to ensure fairness and accuracy.

The CFLPA hopes the report cards will help players make informed decisions in free agency and improve league-wide standards, taking inspiration from the NFLPA, which publishes similar grades in the U.S.

Possible Social Media Blurbs / Teasers

1. 🏈 CFLPA 2025: Edmonton Elks skyrocket from last to fifth, Ottawa Redblacks slide to seventh! Who else made the grade?

2. 📊 Player survey exposes league highs & lows: Hamilton Tiger-Cats still the class of the CFL, B.C. Lions get an F in nutrition!

3. 🔍 CFLPA report card breakdown: Edmonton’s A+ for travel, Redblacks struggling in coaching, Montreal slammed on family support.