Former Packers QB Signs with the CFL

The journey of quarterback Taylor Elgersma has been full of twists, but it seems he has found a home with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the CFL. Elgersma, a product of U Sports in Canada, initially caught attention as a top CFL prospect, but his path to professional football took him through the NFL, where he got a shot with the Green Bay Packers during the offseason.

Elgersma was cut by the Packers at the final roster deadline, and although he didn’t re-sign with their practice squad, he received several visits with other NFL teams during the 2025 season. Despite these opportunities, Elgersma ultimately signed with the United Football League’s (UFL) Birmingham Stallions in the offseason, practicing with the team in preparation for their season. However, his football journey took another turn when he decided to return to Canada, further solidifying his commitment to the CFL.

Elgersma’s CFL Journey Begins

This offseason, Elgersma had another opportunity to show his skills by participating in the 2026 NFL scouting combine, likely his final chance to prove himself to NFL teams before making a final decision between the UFL and CFL. His decision ultimately led him back to Canada, where he signed a rookie contract with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, taking him through the 2028 season.

Elgersma was selected 18th overall in the 2025 CFL Draft, securing his spot as a second-round pick by the Bombers. His selection comes with the hope that he can develop into a key player for the team in the coming years. Canadian scouting services ranked him as the 14th overall prospect in the 2025 CFL draft class, just behind Kurtis Rouke, another highly regarded quarterback. Rouke, also a 2025 draft pick, was selected 25th overall, but he has yet to sign with a CFL team.

Challenges and Opportunities in the CFL

Elgersma faced some logistical challenges in his pursuit of an NFL career, particularly with his work visa, which was an issue while playing in the UFL. To play in the league, Elgersma would have had to play without pay, which led him to look for other opportunities. Now, with the CFL, he has a clear path forward.

The next question for Elgersma is when he will get his chance to take the field. Currently, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers have a strong quarterback room, featuring Zach Collaros, Terry Wilson, Bryce Perkins, Payton Thorne, and Chase Artopoeus. With so many quarterbacks under contract, Elgersma will need to earn his spot and find a way to stand out in a crowded competition.

Elgersma’s Role as a Canadian Quarterback

One of the unique factors in Elgersma’s situation is his status as a Canadian quarterback. In the CFL, Canadian quarterbacks are considered “ratio breakers,” meaning they can help teams balance the number of non-Canadian players on the field. Typically, American quarterbacks play the position in the CFL, but Elgersma’s ability to line up under center could allow the Bombers to play another American player at a different position, offering more flexibility in their roster construction.

Looking Toward the Future

The Blue Bombers also hold the rights to 11 other quarterbacks, including some notable names from the upcoming NFL draft class, such as Haynes King, Diego Pavia, and Mark Gronowski. While Elgersma has a chance to make his mark with the Bombers, the competition will be fierce as Winnipeg continues to scout for top talent.

For now, Elgersma’s focus will be on proving himself with the Bombers and seizing the opportunity to be the next Canadian quarterback to make a significant impact in the CFL. With his journey to the CFL now officially underway, fans will be watching closely to see how he develops in the coming seasons.