What Dru Brown will earn in 2026 with the Ottawa Redblacks

Dru Brown restructures deal for 2026 with Ottawa Redblacks after injury-hit season

After a challenging, injury-affected campaign, Dru Brown agreed to take a reduced salary for the 2026 Canadian Football League season.

The quarterback reworked his contract in January, receiving a $150,000 signing bonus as part of the new agreement. His revised deal includes a $131,000 base salary, along with $15,000 in marketing income, $15,000 for housing, and a $10,000 travel allowance—bringing his guaranteed earnings to $321,000.

On top of that, Brown can earn up to $54,000 in playtime incentives, receiving $3,000 per game if he participates in at least 51 percent of offensive snaps. Additional bonuses worth up to $12,000 are tied to statistical achievements, awards, and honours.

These include incentives for leading the East Division or the league in passing yards and touchdowns, as well as recognition such as divisional or league all-star selections and the CFL’s Most Outstanding Player award. If all bonuses are met, the total value of his contract could reach $387,000.

Originally, Brown’s deal for 2026 was set to be significantly higher. He was due a $150,000 offseason roster bonus in January as part of a contract that would have paid $462,500 in guaranteed money, with a maximum value of $471,500.

In 2025, Brown earned $366,700 while playing in Ottawa, appearing in 11 regular-season games and starting nine despite dealing with neck, hip, and knee issues. He posted a 2-7 record, completing 71.5 percent of his passes for 2,389 yards, 14 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, ranking eighth in passer rating among qualified quarterbacks.

Brown initially joined Ottawa ahead of the 2024 season and made an immediate impact. He started 15 games, throwing for 3,959 yards with 18 touchdowns and 10 interceptions while leading the team to an 8-6-1 record and a playoff berth. However, the Redblacks were eliminated in the East Division Semi-Final by the Toronto Argonauts.

Before his move to Ottawa, the California native spent three seasons with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, primarily serving as a backup. During that time, he stepped in for injured starter Zach Collaros, throwing for 1,484 yards and 14 touchdowns with just two interceptions, while also contributing on the ground.

Head coach and general manager Ryan Dinwiddie has expressed confidence in Brown’s ability, stating that when fully fit and operating in the pocket, he ranks among the league’s top quarterbacks.

With his contract adjusted and a fresh season ahead, Brown’s performance in 2026 is expected to play a crucial role in determining whether Ottawa can return to the playoffs.