The reason Collaros says this could be his last year in the CFL

Zach Collaros opens up on why this could be his final CFL season

Veteran quarterback Zach Collaros has admitted that the 2026 campaign could mark the final chapter of his storied career in the Canadian Football League.

The 37-year-old, who has enjoyed a decorated run under centre for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, says the decision will ultimately come down to a combination of health, family considerations and a desire to step away on his own terms.

weighing up the physical toll

Collaros has never shied away from the realities of playing quarterback deep into his 30s. Having battled injuries earlier in his career, he understands better than most how demanding the CFL schedule can be.

While he insists he still feels capable of competing at a high level, he has acknowledged that maintaining peak performance requires more preparation and recovery than ever before. The grind of another full season — training camp, travel, and the weekly physical punishment — is something he no longer takes lightly.

family comes first

Beyond football, Collaros has pointed to family as a major factor in his thinking. With young children at home, he has spoken candidly about wanting to be present and not miss milestones because of the game.

After more than a decade in professional football, he says perspective changes. Championships and accolades matter, but so does time — and that’s something no athlete can get back once their playing days are over.

legacy already secured

Collaros’ résumé leaves little left to prove. Multiple Grey Cup appearances and league MVP honours have cemented his place among the CFL’s elite quarterbacks of his era. That security gives him the freedom to consider retirement without feeling as though he’s walking away unfinished.

Rather than chasing numbers or records, Collaros has suggested he would prefer to exit while still performing at a high level, instead of lingering past his prime.

taking it year by year

For now, though, the focus remains firmly on the season ahead. Collaros has stressed that he is committed to giving everything to the Blue Bombers in what could be a final run. If this does turn out to be his swansong, he intends to make it count.

Whether 2026 becomes the end of the road or not, one thing is clear: Collaros is approaching this campaign with reflection, gratitude and the understanding that every snap could be among his last in the CFL.