The Most Shocking CFL Trades of the Last Decade

The CFL has never been short on drama, but over the last ten years, the league has delivered some truly jaw-dropping trades — moves that shifted power balances, stunned fanbases, and changed careers overnight. From blockbuster quarterback swaps to unexpected star exits, these trades still spark debate across the league.

Here are the most shocking CFL trades of the last decade, and why they shook the football world.

1. The Bo Levi Mitchell Era Ends in Calgary (2023)

For years, Bo Levi Mitchell was the face of the Calgary Stampeders — a Grey Cup champion, MOP winner, and franchise icon. So when Calgary officially moved on and traded Mitchell’s rights to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, it stunned the league.

Even though signs pointed to a transition, few expected Calgary to truly close the chapter. His move to Hamilton marked a dramatic changing of the guard and was one of the biggest QB storylines in recent CFL history.

2. Zach Collaros Heads to Winnipeg — a Trade That Changed Everything (2019)

When the Toronto Argonauts shipped Zach Collaros to Winnipeg at the trade deadline, it didn’t dominate headlines at first. In fact, some questioned whether Collaros could still stay healthy.

What happened next was historic.

Collaros went on to lead Winnipeg to the 2019 Grey Cup, begin the Blue Bombers’ modern dynasty, and capture multiple MOP awards. A mid-season rental turned into one of the greatest success stories the league has ever seen — and a trade Toronto will never stop hearing about.

3. Johnny Manziel’s Blockbuster Move to Montreal (2018)

Few CFL trades generated as much chaos and spotlight as the Hamilton Tiger-Cats’ decision to trade Johnny Manziel to the Montreal Alouettes.

Hamilton received a massive package — including two first-round picks — while Montreal gambled on Manziel becoming a star.

The hype was enormous, the media frenzy unmatched… and the results? Not so much. Manziel struggled, the gamble failed, and the trade became one of the most infamous CFL moves of the decade.

4. The Weston Dressler Fallout in Saskatchewan (2016)

Weston Dressler was beloved in Riderville — a fan favourite, community presence, and explosive playmaker.

That’s why the Riders’ decision to release and effectively move on from Dressler (leading to his signing with Winnipeg) caused an uproar among fans. While not a traditional trade, the move resonated across the league with the same shock value. Seeing Dressler in Bombers blue was something fans thought they’d never witness.

5. Duron Carter Sent Packing by Montreal — Then Toronto (2017–18)

Duron Carter remains one of the most talented and polarizing players of the decade. Montreal’s decision to move on from him, followed by a brief stint with Toronto, shocked fans due to his elite playmaking ability.

The constant movement only fueled the CFL’s always-entertaining drama machine, cementing Carter as one of the most talked-about figures of the modern era.

6. The Argonauts’ Massive Pick Swap for Charleston Hughes (2021)

When the Argos traded for legendary pass rusher Charleston Hughes, Toronto fans celebrated instantly — but the deal ended up being short-lived and complicated.

The trade stood out because Hughes had been a force for years in Calgary and Saskatchewan, making him one of the league’s most feared defensive players. Any move involving him was bound to raise eyebrows, and this one did.

7. James Franklin’s Move to Toronto (2017)

The Edmonton-to-Toronto trade for QB James Franklin was supposed to be the CFL’s next superstar launch moment. Many believed Franklin was the heir apparent to Ricky Ray and a future elite starter.

Expectations were sky-high. Reality was not.

Franklin never fully broke through in Toronto, making this one of the most surprising and ultimately disappointing blockbuster trades of the decade.

Final Thoughts: A Decade Defined by Big Swings

The CFL’s last ten years have featured trades that reshaped franchises, sparked controversies, and created unforgettable storylines. From Collaros’ Cinderella run to Manziel’s media storm to the emotional exits of franchise icons, these moves remind fans why the league remains one of the most unpredictable in North American sports.

And with another trade window always around the corner, fans know one thing:
In the CFL, the next shocker is never far away.