The Calgary Stampeders are open to listening to trade offers for the No. 1 overall selection in the 2020 CFL draft, per sources.
Stamps’ general manager John Hufnagel has a few targets in mind for the No. 1 overall selection and East Carolina University linebacker Jordan Williams is very likely one of those players. However, if the price is right, Hufnagel could opt to trade back, accrue draft capital and land a favoured prospect.
There are speculative theories the Stampeders’ were behind NFL rumours about Alex Singleton in 2016 leading up to the draft. It worked as he fell to Calgary’s pick at six overall. Williams is viewed as having the ability to make an instant impact. Whether Williams can ascend to Singleton’s level is to be determined. Although, from a purely athletic standpoint, Williams has the superior ability, but it needs to translate on the field.
Calgary acquired the top choice from Ottawa as part of the deal for quarterback Nick Arbuckle. When the Redblacks signed Arbuckle to a contract, that sent the first pick to Cowtown and the sixth selection in the first round went to the nation’s capital. Hufnagel also secured a third rounder, 21st overall.
There are varying methodologies around the CFL on the value of draft capital in 2020 due to the impact of the coronavirus. Because of a shortened and possibility of no season at all, premium players and future picks could be viewed as more valuable. If there are training camps, they’ll be short and geared toward preparing veterans for game action. That wouldn’t provide later round choices much time to develop and impress.
It’s entirely possible Hufnagel believes he can slide down the board and still nab multiple players with high grades on Calgary’s board, which would benefit the Stampeders in the event of a short schedule.
