Top football prospects tackle the CFL Combine in Edmonton

The Canadian Football League (CFL) Combine in Edmonton on March 27, 2026. (Sean McClune/CTV News Edmonton)

Top prospects hoping to crack the Canadian Football League (CFL) were put to the test at Commonwealth Field House in Edmonton on Friday.

The CFL Combine brings together top players in front of scouts, coaches, and managers for Canada’s nine teams. On Friday, the young athletes had to impress the football brass with their bench press.

All the players taking part in the combine are eligible for the national draft on April 28, which included two local talents on the U of A Golden Bears team.

“I’m sure I’ll get drafted,” Carter Stuart told CTV News Edmonton with confidence Friday. “I’m sure a team will want my skills and what I bring to the table.”

Stuart, an offensive lineman for the Golden Bears, added he was hopeful he would be drafted by the Edmonton Elks.

“Staying at home would be nice,” Stuart said. “But any team that wants me to play football, I will play football for them.”

Carter Kettyle, the U of A wide receiver, was also optimistic of his chances to make the CFL, saying, “(I’m) just hopeful to hear my name get called.”

“Whichever team is willing to take a chance on me and take me, I’m ready to compete,” Kettyle continued.

Both players said they were thankful for the opportunity to showcase their skills.

The CFL Combine continues Saturday with two practices.

The Edmonton Elks open their training camp on May 6 with their first preseason game on May 29 against the Calgary Stampeders.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Sean McClune