The Canadian Football League (CFL) scouting calendar reaches an important milestone later this month when the 2026 Combine takes place in Edmonton.
Prospects will complete tests, positional drills and interviews ahead of the CFL Draft in April. For fans who follow the college football picks listed on BettingTop10 Canada, the event is hugely informative.
It will give them some useful early insights into potential roster moves and draft decisions which could influence their future betting decisions.
With that in mind, here is one position group each CFL team will likely be closely monitoring at the 2026 CFL Combine.
Calgary Stampeders – Linebacker
Calgary will enter the Combine with several areas that could need strengthening, but linebacker stands out as the most immediate priority.
The Stampeders currently have limited depth at the position and adding athletic linebackers could significantly boost their chances of success this season.
Linebackers often make the fastest impact on coverage teams, making them valuable draft selections even outside the early rounds.
With several prospects expected to impress in Edmonton, Calgary’s scouting staff will pay close attention to players capable of contributing immediately.
Toronto Argonauts – Receiver
Toronto face an intriguing challenge after losing key receiver depth during the off-season.
The departure of Dejon Brissett has created an opportunity for the Argonauts to identify the next domestic playmaker who can become part of their offensive rotation.
Canadian receivers have long played an important role in the CFL ratio system, making the position particularly valuable in the draft.
If the right prospect emerges during the Combine, Toronto could look to reinforce the position quickly.
Saskatchewan Roughriders – Defensive Line
Saskatchewan’s roster-building philosophy has increasingly focused on strengthening the line of scrimmage.
The Roughriders invested heavily in defensive talent in recent drafts, but recent departures and injuries mean additional depth are required.
Adding Canadian defensive linemen would also help the team manage its ratio flexibility during games.
With several mid-round prospects expected to be available at the Combine, Saskatchewan’s scouts will evaluate how those players could fit into their defensive rotation.
Ottawa Redblacks – Offensive Line
Protecting quarterback Dru Brown has become an important objective for Ottawa as the team looks to climb the standings.
The Redblacks have serviceable offensive linemen, yet the unit could benefit from stronger competition and additional depth.
Improving the offensive line would help stabilise the offence and allow Ottawa’s passing game to operate more effectively.
Prospects who demonstrate physical strength and discipline in the combine drills could quickly move onto Ottawa’s radar.
Montreal Alouettes – Defensive Back
Montreal has a significant question in its secondary following the retirement of standout Canadian defensive back Marc-Antoine Dequoy.
The Alouettes still have promising players at the position, but replacing his leadership and versatility will not be simple.
Adding another talented defensive back through the draft would help maintain depth while creating competition for roster spots.
Given the importance of defensive backs in the CFL’s wide-open passing game, Montreal’s scouts will closely examine this year’s prospects.
Winnipeg Blue Bombers – Offensive Line
Winnipeg’s offensive line has been a cornerstone of its success in recent seasons.
However, several veteran players are approaching the latter stages of their careers, making long-term succession planning essential.
The departure of centre Chris Kolankowski during free agency also increases the urgency for reinforcements.
The Blue Bombers have traditionally built from the trenches and could use the Combine to identify the next generation of linemen.
Hamilton Tiger-Cats – Linebacker
Hamilton’s roster is relatively well balanced, giving them flexibility during the draft.
However, the team has limited Canadian depth at linebacker.
Because linebackers frequently play a central role on special teams, selecting an athletic prospect in the position could provide immediate value.
Hamilton may not need a starter right away, but identifying a future contributor would strengthen their defensive depth.
Edmonton Elks – Offensive Line
The Elks know that improving their offensive line will be critical to their offensive progress.
Protecting quarterback Cody Fajardo and improving the run game both depend on stronger line play.
While Edmonton has several capable linemen already on the roster, the group could benefit from added competition.
Prospects who perform well in the strength and agility drills could attract strong interest from the Elks’ front office.
BC Lions – Receiver
The BC Lions remain one of the CFL’s most exciting offensive teams, especially with Canadian quarterback Nathan Rourke leading the attack.
However, their Canadian receiving corps is beginning to age, creating the need for a younger generation of pass-catchers.
Several current contributors are approaching their thirties, making it important for BC to start developing replacements.
The Combine’s receiver group will be closely watched by Lions scouts as they search for new offensive weapons.
