The Most Underrated Players in the CFL Right Now — Ranked

Every CFL season brings its share of breakout stars, headline-grabbers, and award favourites. But beyond the spotlight lies another group of players — the ones who quietly drive their teams, consistently perform at a high level, and rarely get the recognition they deserve.

These are the players who aren’t always featured in highlight reels or weekly awards, yet their impact is undeniable. This list ranks the most underrated players in the CFL right now, taking into account performance, value to their teams, consistency, and how overlooked they are in league-wide conversation.

1. Dalton Schoen — WR, Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Despite back-to-back highly productive seasons, Schoen still doesn’t get the superstar treatment he deserves. He’s one of the CFL’s best route-runners, a red-zone threat, and a reliable target in clutch moments. His chemistry with Zach Collaros has transformed Winnipeg’s passing attack, yet he’s somehow overshadowed by bigger names across the league. Few players provide more value per target.

2. Adarius Pickett — LB, Ottawa Redblacks

Pickett has quietly become one of the CFL’s most complete defensive players. Whether he’s dropping into coverage, stopping the run, or flying off the edge as a hybrid outside linebacker, Pickett is everywhere — but rarely gets the national respect his versatility deserves. Ottawa’s defence simply isn’t the same without him.

3. Nic Demski — WR, Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Demski has been thriving for years as one of the CFL’s most dynamic Canadian playmakers, yet he still gets labelled as “underrated.” His ability to line up anywhere — slot, wideout, backfield — adds layers to the Bombers’ offence. He’s a matchup nightmare but remains overshadowed by flashier receivers.

4. Tyrice Beverette — LB, Montreal Alouettes

Beverette is the definition of a defensive tone-setter. Montreal’s linebacking corps is one of the most active in the league, and Beverette is the engine behind it. Sideline-to-sideline speed, special teams excellence, and relentless pursuit — he does it all. It’s time he’s talked about among the league’s top defenders.

5. Keon Hatcher — WR, BC Lions

Hatcher puts up elite production when healthy and is one of the CFL’s best possession receivers. His ability to win contested catches and move the chains makes him a quarterback’s dream. Yet, with teammates like Lucky Whitehead and Alexander Hollins drawing more attention, Hatcher often goes underappreciated.

6. Reggie Begelton — WR, Calgary Stampeders

Begelton doesn’t get nearly enough praise for being Calgary’s offensive anchor. With his consistency, reliable hands, and ability to turn broken plays into big gains, Begelton is the type of receiver every contender needs. His leadership is also invaluable — but rarely recognized.

7. Deatrick Nichols — DB, Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Nichols is one of the most sound defensive backs in the CFL. His ability to shut down opposing receivers, disrupt passing lanes, and bring physicality to the secondary makes him elite, even if he doesn’t get the pick totals that attract headlines. He’s a shutdown corner in everything but name recognition.

8. Brady Oliveira — RB, Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Many fans still underestimate just how dominant Oliveira has become. Yes, he gets praise in Winnipeg, but league-wide conversations often overlook him. He’s one of the best north-south runners in the game, carries a massive workload, and brings punishing physicality every week. Oliveira is a franchise cornerstone.

9. Kevin Brown — RB, Edmonton Elks

Brown has quietly emerged as one of the league’s most productive and explosive running backs. In a struggling Edmonton offense, he’s been a bright spot — consistently creating extra yards after contact and providing big-play potential. If he played for a contender, he’d be viewed very differently.

10. Javon Leake — KR/PR, Saskatchewan Roughriders

Leake is arguably the most dangerous returner in the CFL — and yet he doesn’t get the superstar hype he deserves. With multiple return touchdowns and field-flipping plays every season, Leake changes games in a way few others do. Special teams excellence doesn’t always get the love it should, and Leake is proof.

Final Thoughts

Underrated players are the heartbeat of the CFL. They keep their teams competitive, elevate the players around them, and often become the difference-makers in tight games — even if their names aren’t always trending.

From steady veterans to rising stars, these players deserve far more recognition than they get. As the season goes on, don’t be surprised if some of these underrated talents become the ones who shine when the stakes are highest.