The Edmonton Elks have made a significant roster change ahead of the 2026 Canadian Football League (CFL) season, opting to release Canadian quarterback Tre Ford and officially naming Cody Fajardo as their starting quarterback. This decision comes after a challenging season for the Elks, who aim to regroup and enhance their competitiveness for the upcoming year.
Fajardo’s Rise and Ford’s Departure
Tre Ford, a promising talent from Niagara Falls, Ontario, began the 2025 season as the Elks’ starting quarterback but struggled, leading the team to a dismal 1-4 record. Following this rocky start, the Elks made the strategic choice to replace him with Cody Fajardo, a veteran quarterback who joined the team after a mid-season trade from the Montreal Alouettes.
Fajardo’s tenure with the Elks saw him complete the season with a 6-7 record, throwing for an impressive 3,408 yards, alongside 14 touchdowns and seven interceptions. His performance demonstrated his capability to lead and rally the team, ultimately earning him the starting role for the 2026 season.
Tre Ford’s Journey with the Elks
The Elks drafted Ford in the first round of the 2022 CFL Draft, where he was selected eighth overall. Over his career, which included 60 games with the team, Ford amassed 4,651 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions. Despite his evident talent, the recent decision reflects the team’s desire to shift gears and adopt a fresh approach moving forward.
“Today’s decision should not be seen as a reflection of Tre’s character or skill set, but rather a necessary step towards building a more competitive team for the upcoming season,” said Elks general manager Ed Hervey in a formal statement.
A New Chapter for Edmonton
At 33 years old, Fajardo is entering his 11th season in the CFL, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to the Elks’ locker room. His previous accolades include being named the Most Valuable Player during the 2023 Grey Cup, where he led the Alouettes to a thrilling 28-24 victory against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
This commitment to Fajardo aligns with the recent acquisition of star receiver Austin Mack, who had developed a strong rapport with Fajardo in the past season. The Elks are clearly intent on solidifying their offensive strategy, hoping that the combination of these two players will yield greater success in 2026.
Why it Matters
The Edmonton Elks’ decision to release Tre Ford marks a pivotal moment in the team’s efforts to rebuild and strengthen their roster. By placing their faith in Cody Fajardo, the Elks are signalling a shift in strategy, aiming to harness Fajardo’s experience and leadership while surrounding him with talent, including Mack. As the Elks prepare for the upcoming season, fans will be eager to see how this new direction impacts their performance on the field. With the right adjustments, the Elks could transform their fortunes and re-establish themselves as a formidable force in the CFL.
