Five Canadian prospects were selected in the 2023 NFL Draft, setting a new record for the highest number drafted in a single year.
It brings the total number of Canadians drafted into the NFL up to 75 since 1966, while extending a streak of 13 consecutive years in which at least one prospect from north of the border has heard their name called.
The historic run of Canucks began on Friday night, with two selected on Day 2 of the draft. Syracuse offensive tackle Matthew Bergeron, a native of Victoriaville, Que. was taken by the Atlanta Falcons with the 38th overall pick in the second round. The NFC champion Philadelphia Eagles continued the trend later in the evening, selecting Illinois safety Sydney Brown from London, Ont. with the 66th overall pick in the third round.
Canadians got involved early on Day 3 of the draft, as the New England Patriots drafted Eastern Michigan guard Sidy Sow from Bromont, Que. with the 117th overall pick in the fourth round. Ole Miss edge rusher Tavius Robinson, a transfer from the University of Guelph, went seven picks later to the Baltimore Ravens. Illinois running back Chase Brown, Sydney’s identical twin brother, wrapped up the action when the Cincinnati Bengals took him with the 163rd overall pick in the fifth round.
Pittsburgh receiver Jared Wayne from Peterborough, Ont. later signed with the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent, while Penn State safety Jonathan Sutherland from Ottawa, Ont. joined the Seattle Seahawks after the draft.
The previous record of four Canadians drafted had been set three times, most recently in 2021. That year saw safety Jevon Holland, cornerback Benjamin St-Juste, receiver Josh Palmer, and running back Chuba Hubbard all get selected.
In 2014, defensive lineman Brent Urban, receiver T.J. Jones, and offensive linemen John Urschel and Laurent Duvernay-Tardif were the Canadian quartet. The mark was first set in 1986 when offensive lineman Mike Schad, defensive lineman Markus Koch, running back Rueben Mayes, and quarterback Mark Rypien were selected.
All five drafted prospects are eligible for selection in the 2023 CFL Draft on Tuesday, May 2, but are expected to fall to the later rounds due to their strong NFL opportunities.
