After an action-packed first day of CFL free agency, here’s a look at the top ten offensive and defensive players still on the board (2015 team in parenthesis).
Offence
1. Jeff Fuller, international REC (Calgary): A gifted receiver could be a game-changer – if he can stay healthy.
2. Matt Norman, national OL (B.C.): Started 36 games at centre for the Lions in 2013 and 2014 combined: Canadian offensive lineman now at a premium.
3. Chris Getzlaf, national REC (Saskatchewan): One of the last veteran Canadian receivers on the board.
4. Kendial Lawrence, international RB/KR (Edmonton): Slippery return man with a proven ability to produce chunk plays on offence too. UPDATE: Signed with Riders.
5. Joel Figueroa, international OL (Hamilton): On talent alone he could be an NFL tackle, but he simply needs to stay healthy.
6. Chad Owens, international REC/KR (Toronto): Will someone take a flyer on the Flyin’ Hawaiian?
7. Xavier Fulton, international OL (Saskatchewan): An offensive tackle who could fill a starting hole.
8. Natey Adjei, national REC (Toronto): Canadian who’s flashed potential and could breakout in the right system.
9. Jeremiah Johnson, international RB (Ottawa): Productive when on the field with the Redblacks in 2015. UPDATE: Signed with Lions.
10. Bakari Grant, international REC (Hamilton): Veteran plays physical and with a chip on his shoulder. UPDATE: Signed with Stamps.
Defence
1. Justin Capicciotti, national DE (Ottawa): Canadian sack artist has 23 quarterback takedowns in the last two seasons: might be the best Canadian left. UPDATE: Signed with Riders.
2. Aaron Grymes, international DB (Edmonton): Can flat-out play wherever you want to line him up.
3. Keon Raymond, international LB (Calgary): Plays a tough position (SAM) at a high level and despite his age (33) he continues to produce.
4. Otha Foster, international LB/DB (Edmonton): Foster’s said to be a high-end athlete and he’s one of the best special team players in the league. UPDATE: Signed with Riders.
5. Tristan Okpalaugo, international DE (Toronto): American pass rushing force who might be waiting on a possible NFL contract offer (he’s visited with the Cardinals, Raiders and Jets).
6. J.C. Sherritt, international LB (Edmonton): After playing all 18 games and leading the Eskimos league-best defence to a Grey Cup championship, Sherritt’s value is high. UPDATE: Re-signed with Edmonton.
7. Emanuel Davis, international DB (Hamilton): Productive, instinctive and brings play-making ability.
8. Justin Hickman, international DE (Hamilton): Consistent and dependable veteran on the edge.
9. Bryan Hall, international DT (Hamilton): Athletic big man has been the yang to Ted Laurent’s ying.
10. Arnaud Gascon-Nadon, national DE (Hamilton): He’s made plays while playing defensive line and contributes on specials. UPDATE: Signed with Redblacks.
