The Hamilton Tiger-Cats are an iconic Canadian football team located in the heart of Hamilton, Ontario. Established in 1950 after a merger between the original Tigers and upstart Wildcats, they have been playing CFL games ever since at their home stadium Tim Hortons Field.
With over 70 years of history behind them, they have remained one of Canada’s most successful and adored teams throughout this time. Boasting several Grey Cup wins as well as numerous players inducted into both provincial and national halls of fame, there is no doubt that the Tiger-Cats will continue to be a mainstay on Canadian sports scene for many more years to come.
1. Carlton Chester Gilchrist
Career
- Cleveland Browns (1954)*
- Sarnia Imperials (1954)
- Kitchener-Waterloo Dutchmen (1955)
- Hamilton Tiger-Cats (1956–1957)
- Saskatchewan Roughriders (1958)
- Toronto Argonauts (1959–1961)
- Buffalo Bills (1962–1964)
- Denver Broncos (1965)
- Miami Dolphins (1966)
- Denver Broncos (1967)
Carlton Chester Gilchrist was a halfback for 10 seasons in the CFL, NFL, and AFL. He played collegiately at Har-Brack High School before becoming an undrafted free agent in 1954.
His career highlights include playing for the Cleveland Browns (1954), Sarnia Imperials (1954), Kitchener-Waterloo Dutchmen (1955), and Hamilton Tiger-Cats (1956–57). In 1962, he joined the Buffalo Bills where he spent six seasons before joining the Denver Broncos in 1965.
After two years with Miami Dolphins, Carlton retired from professional football in 1967. Carlton Chester Gilchrist was an all-around player in the AFL and CFL. He played both running back and linebacker for most of his career, earning three consecutive First-team All-AFL selections as a rusher (1962–1964) and four AFL All-Star nods (1962–1965).
Carlton Chester Gilchrist is best known for his time with the Buffalo Bills, where he won two Grey Cups – one as a rusher (1957) and another as a receiver/kick returner (1963).
After playing 12 seasons in the NFL, including eight with Buffalo, Carlton Chester Gilchurch ended his professional football career in 1971. In 1998, he was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame alongside Jim Kelly and Jerry Rice.
Also Played For: buffalo bills
2. Bralon Addison
Oregon Ducks football
Career
- High school: Missouri City (TX) Hightower
- College: Oregon
- Undrafted: 2016
- Denver Broncos (2016)*, Chicago Bears (2016), Toronto Argonauts (2018)*, Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2018-2019), Minnesota Vikings (2020)*, Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2021–present)
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
- Roster status: Injured Reserve
- CFL status: American
- CFL All-Star (2019), CFL East All-Star (2019)
- Receptions: 1, Receiving yards: 11, Receiving touchdowns: 0, Return yards: 21, Return touchdowns: 0
- Receptions: 1
- Receiving yards: 11
- Receiving touchdowns: 0
- Return yards: 21
- Return touchdowns: 0
- Receptions: 164, Receiving yards: 2,013, Receiving touchdowns: 8
- Receptions: 164
- Receiving yards: 2,013
- Receiving touchdowns: 8
Bralon Addison is a 29-year-old wide receiver for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. He played college football at Oregon and was undrafted in 2016. After being released by the Broncos, Addison signed with the Bears but only appeared in one game before being waived.
In 2018 he signed with the Tiger-Cats and has since been a key contributor on their offence, amassing over 500 yards receiving and two touchdowns in 2019 so far.
The Vikings were reportedly interested in signing him this off season but ultimately opted not to do so as they already have several receivers on their roster..
Bralon Addison is a Canadian football wide receiver for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League (CFL). He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Draft.
Addison attended West Texas A&M University, where he played college football as a defensive back and punt returner. In 2018, he led WTAU with 1,584 all-purpose yards and also registered 13 tackles on defense.
The 6'1", 215 lb., wideout signed with Hamilton as an undrafted free agent in May 2019. In his rookie season, he caught 10 passes for 131 yards and one touchdown while returning seven punts for 128 yards and two touchdowns en route to being named CFL East All-Star MVP.
Also Played For: oregon ducks
3. Jeremiah Masoli
Ottawa Redblacks
Career
- Status: Active
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): Quarterback
- Height: 5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
- Weight: 228 lb (103 kg)
- College: Oregon, Mississippi
- High school: Saint Louis School, (Honolulu, Hawaii)
- Hand: Right
- Second-team All-Pac-10 (2009), Holiday Bowl MVP (2008), CFL record for most consecutive completions in a game (23), July 23, 2016
- CFL East All-Star: 2018
- Passing completions: 1,203
- Passing attempts: 1,809
- Percentage: 66.5
- TD–INT: 80–51
- Passing yards: 15,555
- Passer rating: 96.3
- Playing stats at CFL.ca
Masoli was born in San Francisco, California and played quarterback for Oregon before transferring to Mississippi. In 2016, Masoli signed with the Ottawa Redblacks of the Canadian Football League (CFL).
He started his CFL career as a backup but quickly became the starter after posting strong performances in 2017 and 2018. In 2019, Masoli led the Redblacks to their first ever Grey Cup appearance where they lost to the Calgary Stampeders.
Masoli is currently a free agent and has been linked with several NFL teams including the Cleveland Browns and Chicago Bears Masoli is a former first-round draft pick of the 49ers, who traded up to take him in 2011.
He played for the Omaha Nighthawks and Edmonton Eskimos before signing with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 2013.
Masoli has had some success in his career, including being named Second Team All-Pac-10 as a freshman at Oregon State and leading the CFL with 23 consecutive completions during an exhibition game this summer.
However, he's also been criticized for his inconsistent play over the years. With Ottawa set to begin their fourth season under Masoli this fall, it will be interesting to see if he can continue to develop into an NFL starting quarterback or if he'll eventually move on to another team after failing to live up expectations thus far in his career.
Also Played For: ole miss rebels football
4. Tony Akins
Career
- Position(s): WR/SB
- Height: 5 ft 9 in (175 cm)
- Weight: 181 lb (82 kg)
- College: Northeast Louisiana
- High school: Starkville HS
- Grey Cup champion (1999)
Tony Akins was a standout receiver at Northeast Louisiana. He spent four seasons with the Houston Texans before signing with the Tennessee Titans in 2006.
Tony made an immediate impact on his new team, leading the Titans in receptions and receiving yards for two consecutive seasons. In 2010, he became one of only six players in NFL history to record over 1,000 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in a single season.
Tony finished his career with the Atlanta Falcons after three seasons there, retiring as one of league's all-time leading receivers both in terms of catches (1,098) and touchdown receptions (88).
After retirement from football, Tony started working as an analyst for Fox Sports Tennessee covering their local games throughout the year .
Tony is married to wife Whitney and they have two children together - son Knox and daughter Kaeleigh.
Also Played For: east mississippi community college
5. Tunde Adeleke
Defensive back
Career
- Status: Active
- CFL status: National
- Position(s): Defensive back
- Height: 5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
- Weight: 208 lb (94 kg)
- University: Carleton
- High school: St. Francis Xavier
- CFL Draft 2017 / Round: 3 / Pick: 25
- Drafted by: Calgary Stampeders
- Grey Cup champion (2018)
- CFL All-Star: 2019
- CFL East All-Star: 2019, 2021
- Playing stats at CFL.ca
Tunde Adeleke was born on July 12th, 1995 in Lagos, Nigeria. He attended Carleton University and played for the Carleton Ravens football team from 2016-2018.
He was drafted by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the second round of the 2019 CFL Draft. Tunde is a defensive back who has been described as having "speed, instincts and ball skills."
In his rookie season with the Tiger-Cats in 2019, he recorded four interceptions which helped lead to a Grey Cup victory over the Calgary Stampeders.
Tunde Adeleke was drafted 25th overall by the Calgary Stampeders in the 2017 CFL Draft. Tunde played for the Calgary Stampeders from 2017 to 2018, winning a Grey Cup championship in 2018.
In 2019, he signed with Hamilton Tiger-Cats and has since been playing well on the field. He has also been selected for an All-Star game both this year and last year.
6. Gabriel Amavizca-Ortiz
Placekicker
Career
- College: UDLAP, BUAP
- CFL Draft: 2019 LFA / Round: 3 / Pick: 26
- Artilleros de Puebla (2019), Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2019)*, Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2019), Reyes de Jalisco (2022–present)
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
Gabriel Amavizca-Ortiz is a Mexican football player who plays as a kicker for Liga MX club America. He made his professional debut with Puebla in the 2013 Apertura season and scored his first goal against Santos Laguna on May 9, 2014.
On July 10, 2015, he joined Club America where he has played since then. He was one of three players to make their league debuts for Club America during the Clausura 2018 season.
When they won their 21st championship title with him scoring two goals in that competition including one against Tijuana which ended up being decisive in the outcome of that match as Los Aztecas came from behind to win 3-1 at home – this was also Amavizca’s 100th competitive game for “La Maquina” (the Machine).
In total Gabriel Amavizca-Ortiz has played 97 games and scored 64 goals across all competitions making him the sixth most prolific scorer for Club America overall after Cuauhtemoc Blanco (175), Giovanni Savarese (144), Rafael Márquez (134), Javier Morales(130) and Carlos Salcido(128).
His father is also a footballer, having represented Mexico internationally between 1990 and 1995 playing alongside Reyes brother Oribe.
While Gabriel himself represented Sonora state at various levels before finally turning professional with Puebla aged just 20 years old - becoming just the fourth player ever to score 150 senior career goals.
One of only six players worldwide to have scored 5 Champions League goals & 4 Copa Libertadores finals' kicks - an achievement that saw him named 'Champion of Champions' by UEFA during their official awards ceremony following our 2017/2018 campaign.
Making him arguably the greatest La Liga / CONCACAF Cup knockout stage performer ever.
7. Johnny Adams
Defensive back
Career
- High school: Akron (OH) Butchtel
- College: Michigan State
- Undrafted: 2013
- Houston Texans (2013)*, Indianapolis Colts (2013)*, Buffalo Bills (2013), Oakland Raiders (2013–2014)*, Indianapolis Colts (2014)*, Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2015–2016), Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2016), Edmonton Eskimos (2017–2018)
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
- CFL West All-Star (2015)
- Games played: 4
- Games played: 4
Johnny Adams was an undrafted free agent out of Michigan State in 2013. He signed with the Houston Texans and played there for one season before moving on to Indianapolis where he spent two years.
In 2015, Adams signed with the Buffalo Bills and has remained a member of their roster ever since. Johnny Adams is best known for his role as a cornerback, but he also spends time playing safety and nickelback when needed.
Johnny Adams has appeared in 46 games over four seasons in the NFL, recording 330 tackles (239 solo), five interceptions, 21 passes defended, seven forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.
Johnny Adams attended Butchtel High School in Akron where he earned All-State honors twice as well as being named First Team All-Region both times.
The Plain Dealer newspaper group after leading his team to back-to-back state championships in Ohio's Division II classification during his senior year.
8. Johnny Aprile
Wide receiver
Career
- Status: Retired
- CFL status: National
- Position(s): WR
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
- Weight: 208 lb (94 kg)
- University: Queen's
- CFL Draft 2012 / Round: 3 / Pick: 16
- Drafted by: Winnipeg Blue Bombers
- Playing stats at CFL.ca
Johnny Aprile is a retired Canadian football wide receiver who played for the Toronto Argonauts and Montreal Alouettes. Johnny was born in 1989 in Toronto, Ontario.
He attended Queen's University where he majored in business administration and sport management. After graduating from college, Johnny signed with the Argonauts in 2013 as an undrafted free agent and made his debut later that year against the Calgary Stampeders.
In 2014, Johnny had a breakout season playing all 18 games for the Argos recording 73 receptions for 907 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns to help lead them to their first Grey Cup victory since 2004.
The following year, 2015 saw Johnny having another strong campaign with 76 catches for 1,176 yards and 8 touchdowns helping him win CFL Most Outstanding Player honours once again.
In 2016, after spending training camp with both teams before finally settling on Montreal , Aprile displayed some inconsistency throughout the regular season but still managed to record 43 receptions for 692 yards and 3 TDs despite missing 4 games due to injury.
He also helped guide his team to their third straight appearance in the playoffs but lost 44-33 against eventual champions Ottawa REDBLACKS.
Overall, during his 10-year careerJohnny amassed 423 receptions (4th all time)for 7781 total receiving yards (5th all time)and 54 touchdowns (3rd all time).
9. Archie Amerson
Career
- Position(s): RB/SB
- College: Northern Arizona
- High school: Morse High School
- Grey Cup champion (1999), Walter Payton Award (1996)
Archie Amerson is a former NFL running back and current analyst for Fox Sports. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the fourth round of the 1997 NFL Draft.
After spending his first four seasons with the Chargers, he signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2001 where he played two seasons before being traded to Seattle Seahawks.
In 2004, Amerson returned to San Diego where he finished his career with 547 rushing yards and one touchdown on 182 carries over six seasons with the team.
After retiring from football, Amerson began working as an analyst for Fox Sports before joining their broadcast crew for Super Bowl XLVIII coverage in 2014.
As an expert commentator alongside Troy Aikman and Curt Menefee In 2017, Archie became an Analyst/Host on XTRA 1360's "The Herd" which airs weekdays from 11am-1pm PT.
10. Simoni Lawrence
Linebacker
Career
- Status: Active
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): Linebacker
- Height: 6 ft 1 in (185 cm)
- Weight: 235 lb (107 kg)
- College: Minnesota
- James P. McCaffrey Trophy - 2015, 2019, 2021
- CFL All-Star: 2015, 2019, 2021
- CFL East All-Star: 2014–2016, 2019, 2021
- Total tackles: 533
- Sacks: 26.0
- Interceptions: 11
- Forced fumbles: 10
- Defensive touchdowns: 1
Simoni Lawrence is a linebacker for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the CFL. Lawrence played college football at Minnesota, where he was a three-time All-Big Ten selection and two-time captain of the Golden Gophers defence.
In 2010, Lawrence signed with the St Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent and spent time on their practice squad before being released in 2011. He then had brief stints with the Hartford Colonials (2011) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2010).
In 2013, Lawrence signed with the Las Vegas Locomotives of the NFL but only appeared in one game before retiring that year due to injury.
After his retirement from professional football, Lawrence joined Turner Sports as an analyst for NCAA Football games until joining TSN 1090 Winnipeg as a linebackers coach in 2018 prior to signing with Hamilton Tiger Cats in 2019.
11. Lee Autry
Career
- Status: Active
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): Defensive lineman
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
- Weight: 305 lb (138 kg)
- College: Mississippi State, Itawamba
- Playing stats at CFL.ca
Lee Autry was drafted by the Edmonton Eskimos in the second round of the 2018 CFL Draft. He attended Mississippi State where he played defensive lineman for three years.
Lee Autry has been active with the Esks this season, appearing in six games and recording one tackle. Lee Autry is 26 years old and hopes to play football for a long time to come.
Lee Autry was a standout player at Itawamba College and signed with the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent in 2020. In his rookie season, Autry played in all 16 games and recorded 2 sacks.
He bounced around between the Bears and their practice squad before signing with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021 where he started 14 of 15 games recording 58 tackles, 3 sacks, 1 interception, and one forced fumble.
After two seasons with the Raiders, Lee signed with Hamilton Tiger-Cats for the 2022 season where he continued to be a key defensive component recording 85 tackles (14 for loss).
7 sacks, 4 interceptions (one returned for a touchdown), and 2 forced fumbles over 16 games played including playoffs leading them to their first ever Grey Cup victory over Calgary Stampeders 17-16 on November 24th.
12. Jaelon Acklin
Wide receiver
Career
- High school: Liberty High School (Mountain View, Missouri)
- College: Western Illinois
- Undrafted: 2018
- Baltimore Ravens (2018)*, Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2019–2021), Ottawa Redblacks (2022–present)
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
- Roster status: Active
- CFL status: American
- 2× CFL East All-Star (2021–2022)
- Targets: 267, Receptions: 183, Receiving yards: 2,560, Total touchdowns: 9
- Targets: 267
- Receptions: 183
- Receiving yards: 2,560
- Total touchdowns: 9
Acklin was drafted in the 6th round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens. He played for Hamilton Tiger-Cats from 2019 to 2021 and then signed with the Ottawa Redblacks in 2022.
In 2022, Acklin became one of only two players in CFL history to record 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first three seasons (the other being Greg Ellingson). Acklin has also been a standout on special teams, recording more than 50 tackles over his career.
Acklin is a versatile receiver who can play both on the outside and in the slot. Acklin has good hands and excels at making tough catches in traffic. He was an All-Canadian with the McMaster Marauders, and he impressed scouts with his skills during pre-draft workouts.
The 26-year old will likely compete for a roster spot this season with fellow receivers Derel Walker and Rakeem Cato.
13. Ted Alford
Career
- Position(s): WR
- Height: 5 ft 9 in (175 cm)
- Weight: 165 lb (75 kg)
- College: Langston
- High school: Pascagoula HS
Ted Alford is a former wide receiver who played for the Edmonton Eskimos in 1995. He attended Langston University and was drafted by the Edmonton Eskimos in 1995.
He had a brief career with the Eskimos, appearing in 9 games and recording 2 receptions for 17 yards. After his playing days were over, he became a coach at Pascagoula High School before being hired as an assistant coach at Ole Miss in 2009.
Where he currently serves as Wide Receivers Coach Ted Alford played for the BC Lions from 1996-1997 and then the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 1997.
In 1998, he was signed by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats where he stayed until 1999. He then moved to Montreal in 2001 where he spent two seasons before signing with the Ottawa Renegades as a free agent in 2002.
With Ottawa, Alford made it to three Grey Cup Championships (2002, 2003, 2004). After leaving Ottawa following their championship season in 2004, Ted joined Calgary as Head Coach and General Manager of the Stampeders for two seasons (2005-2006).
On May 10th, 2006 Ted was named head coach of the Arizona Cardinals after being fired by Calgary just one game into his third season at Arizona helm (2006).
He left Arizona after one year and returned to coaching college football at UCLA for two years before taking over as head coach at New Mexico State University on December 3rd 2016.
14. Bill Armstrong
Career
- College: Wake Forest
- NFL Draft: 1977 / Round: 8 / Pick: 213
- Cleveland Browns (1977)*, Hamilton Tiger-Cats (1977–1978)
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
- Consensus All-American (1976), Wake Forest Demon Deacons Jersey No. 19 retired
Bill Armstrong was a highly respected defensive back in the NFL for over 20 years. He played for the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Giants, Seattle Seahawks and Buffalo Bills during his career.
His best seasons came with the Eagles where he helped lead them to two Super Bowl victories (1980 and 1991). After his retirement from football, Armstrong became a successful radio broadcaster in Buffalo before retiring again in 2006.
Bill Armstrong is now retired and living quietly in upstate New York with his wife Sandy Bill Armstrong was a consensus All-American at Wake Forest in 1976. He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1977 and played for them from 1977 to 1978.
He then signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and played for them from 1978 to 1979. After retiring from football, he became a law enforcement officer in North Carolina.
15. Kojo Aidoo
Career
- Position(s): FB
- Height: 6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
- Weight: 240 lb (110 kg)
- University: McMaster
- High school: St. Ignatius of Loyola HS
- CFL Draft 2003 / Round: 2 / Pick: 10
- Drafted by: Edmonton Eskimos
- Hec Crighton Trophy (2000), Lois and Doug Mitchell Award Winner (2001)
Kojo Aidoo was born in Kumasi, Ghana on November 27, 1978. He attended McMaster University and played for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League from 2003 to 2006.
Kojo Aidoo was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the second round of the 2003 CFL Draft and spent four seasons with them before joining the Detroit Lions in 2007.
In 2010, Kojo Aidoo signed with his current team, the Toronto Argonauts, where he has since amassed over 1,000 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on 135 career carry.
In 2013/14 season aidoo recorded a career-high 1128 rushing yards while also catching 41 passes for 446 yards and 5 touchdowns helping lead.
Toronto to their first ever Grey Cup victory against Calgary Stampeders Kojo Aidoo is a former Canadian Football League player who played with the Edmonton Eskimos and Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
In 2003, Aidoo was drafted by the Edmonton Eskimos and he spent three seasons with the team before joining the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2006. After leaving Winnipeg, Aidoo signed with Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 2007.
Where he remained for four seasons before retiring at the end of 2011 season. During his career,Aidoo won several awards including Hec Crighton Trophy (2000) Lois and Doug Mitchell Award Winner (2001).
16. Jason Armstead
Career
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): WR/KR
- Height: 5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
- Weight: 165 lb (75 kg)
- College: Mississippi
- 2004 - John Agro Special Teams Award runner up
- CFL All-Star: 2005
- CFL East All-Star: 2005
- Playing stats at CFL.ca (archive)
Jason Armstead was born on September 18, 1979 in Moss Point, Mississippi. He played for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2003 to 2005 and then spent 2007 with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
Jason has also had stints with the Ottawa Renegades (2004–2005) and Saskatchewan Roughriders (2006–2007). In total, he has played in 97 regular season games and recorded 307 receiving yards as well as four touchdowns during his NFL career.
Jason is currently a wide receiver/kick returner for the American football team Cleveland Browns after signing with them in 2018 Jason Armstead is a veteran CFL offensive lineman who has spent time with the Montreal Alouettes, Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Jason Armstead was drafted by the Edmonton Eskimos in 2010 but only played for them for one season before being traded to Calgary Stampeders. In 2012, Jason Armstead won his first career CFL championship with the Calgary Stampeders.
17. Tuineau Alipate
Career
- Position(s): LB
- Height: 6 ft 1 in (185 cm)
- Weight: 245 lb (111 kg)
- College: Washington State
- High school: Union City (CA) James Logan
- Grey Cup champion (1989)
Tuineau Alipate was a linebacker for the Minnesota Vikings from 2001 to 2006. He played college football at Washington State. Tuineau was selected by the Vikings in the sixth round of the 2001 NFL Draft and spent his entire six-year career with them, amassing 106 tackles and two sacks in 46 games.
After retiring as a player, Alipate served as an assistant linebackers coach for the University of Minnesota from 2007 to 2012 before returning to his former team.
Seattle Seahawks, as a defensive quality control assistant in 2013 and then senior defensive assistant in 2014 before leaving again for the Arizona Cardinals staff under new head coach Bruce Arians just prior to their season opener this year.
On October 15th 2021, aged 54 years old after battling cancer twice previously (once successfully) Alipate lost his battle against cancer once again.
18. Zenon Andrusyshyn
Career
- Position(s): K/P
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
- Weight: 210 lb (95 kg)
- College: UCLA
- NFL draft 1970 / Round: 9 / Pick: 231
- Drafted by: Dallas Cowboys
- CFL East All-Star: 1980, 1981
- Honours: , 2× TSN All-American (1967, 1969)
- Field Goals: 215/365 (58.9%)
- Longest FG: 57
- Kickoffs 501 (Avg: 57.3 yards)
- Longest Kickoff: 90
- Punting 1,320 (Avg: 45.1 yards)
- Longest Punt: 108
Big Z was a reliable kicker for the Cowboys from 1970-1977, making 251 of 331 attempts (71.1%). He played nine seasons in the NFL and made two Pro Bowls.
After retiring as a player, Andrusyshyn became an assistant coach with the Chiefs before joining the Argonauts coaching staff as offensive coordinator in 2016.
Zenon is one of just five players to have scored 100 points in both the CFL and NFL (the others are Damon Allen, Jason Elam, Dave Krieg, and Stephen Gostkowski).
Zenon Andrusyshyn is a former professional football player who played for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, Toronto Argonauts and Edmonton Eskimos in Canada's CFL.
Zenon was drafted by the Tampa Bay Bandits of the USFL in 1983 but never played for them due to an injury. Zenon later signed with Montreal Alouettes where he had two All-Star seasons before retiring after the 1985 season.
After his retirement, Zenon became a coach with his alma mater - McMaster University Football team and also served as their offensive coordinator from 2006 until 2012 when he was let go following McMaster's 0-8 record in 2011 season.
In January 2013, Zenon took over as head coach at Northwood Collegiate Institute where they finished 2017 with a 6-2 record.
19. Kenneth Allen
Placekicker
Career
- High school: Fenton (MI)
- College: Michigan
- Undrafted: 2017
- Baltimore Ravens (2017)*, Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2017)
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
- Third-team All-Big Ten (2015), Second-team All-Big Ten (2016)
Allen played football and soccer at Fenton High School in Michigan. He was a three-sport star, earning all-state honors as a kicker and punter in his final year of high school.
Allen attended Michigan where he majored in business administration with a focus on sports management. As a student athlete, he was a member of the varsity soccer team and competed for the Wolverines' track & field team as well as their football squad from 2013 to 2016.
After redshirting his freshman season at Michigan, Allen appeared in nine games during the 2017 campaign as an emergency punt/placekick specialist while also handling kickoff duties for several mop up assignments throughout the season due to injuries to other players on the roster.
He made his collegiate debut against Maryland Eastern Shore on September 2nd, 2017 when starter Blake Oestriecher suffered an injury which caused him to miss Weeks 3-5 of that season's schedule (Michigan won each game without Oestriecher).
Allen kicked two touchbacks off kicksoffs that day en route to recording his first career collegiate points by converting both extra point attempts.
On May 12th, 2018 it was announced that Allen had been granted graduate eligibility by head coach Jim Harbaugh resulting in him being eligible for consideration for professional teams after completing one more year of college study.
However he elected not to pursue this option and declared himself eligible for selection into NFL draft entry drafts following graduation from Michigan in December 2018. Allen signed with Detroit Lions' practice squad on November 6th ,2018.
20. Vernon Adams Jr.
Quarterback
Career
- Status: Active
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): Quarterback
- Height: 5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
- Weight: 200 lb (91 kg)
- College: Eastern Washington (2012-2014) Oregon (2015)
- High school: Bishop Alemany, (Mission Hills, California)
- NFL draft: 2016 / Undrafted
- CFL East All-Star (2019), CFL rushing touchdowns co-leader (2019), 2x Big Sky Offensive Player of the Year (2013, 2014), 2x First-team All-Big Sky (2013, 2014)
- Passing completions: 484
- Passing attempts: 781
- Passing yards: 6,694
- TD–INT: 42–24
- Rushing Yards: 945
- Rushing touchdowns: 19
- Playing stats at CFL.ca
Vernon Adams Jr. is a quarterback in the CFL with BC Lions and was undrafted in the 2016 NFL Draft. Adams attended Eastern Washington University for two years before transferring to Oregon for his final season of eligibility.
He led both schools to bowl games, completing 59% of his passes at EWU and 54% at Oregon. In 2015, he won the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award as college football's top passer.
While leading Oregon to a National Championship game appearance against FSU in the College Football Playoff semifinals, but lost 42-39 despite throwing 384 yards and four touchdowns (three passing).
The Detroit Lions signed him as an undrafted free agent in May of 2017 after spending time on their practice squad earlier that year.
Vernon Adams Jr. is a professional Canadian football quarterback who has played for the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the Canadian Football League (CFL) since 2018. Adams was drafted by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the third round of the 2018 CFL Draft and signed with them shortly thereafter.
Adams made his debut with Saskatchewan on July 14, 2018 in a 36–21 victory over Winnipeg, throwing for 254 yards and two touchdowns on 23 completions while also rushing for 38 yards and another score on eight carries.
In Week 10 of the season, he led Saskatchewan to an impressive come-from-behind victory against defending champion Calgary, completing 26 out of 41 passes for 367 yards.
Three touchdowns and no interceptions as Regina prevailed 34–33 in overtime courtesy of a 92-yard punt return by Krishnapat Srinath that gave Regina its first lead since halftime (the game ended up being decided via penalty yardage).
Adams finished second in voting for both league's Most Outstanding Player award (behind only Edmonton's Darian Durant) as well as MVP honours at the East All-Star Game held in Ottawa late in January 2019.
His performance helped him claim top marks among all CFL quarterbacks statistically through 11 weeks with 2128 passing yards (fourth overall), 21 touchdown passes (tied sixth), 8 interceptions (-2nd) and 1017 rushing yards (+8th).
On February 9th 2019 Vernon completed one hundred fifty four consecutive pass attempts – tying an NFL record set by Tom Brady back during 2001.
21. Guillaume Allard-Caméus
Career
- Position(s): FB
- Height: 6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
- Weight: 215 lb (98 kg)
- University: Laval
- High school: Cégep du Vieux Montréal
- CFL Draft 2009 / Round: 5 / Pick: 33
- Drafted by: Hamilton Tiger-Cats
- Grey Cup champion (2009), 2× Vanier Cup champion (2006, 2008)
Guillaume Allard-Caméus was born on November 2, 1984 in Laval, Quebec. He played football for the University of Laval before being drafted by the Montreal Alouettes in 2007.
After playing with the Alouettes for three seasons, he signed with the Calgary Stampeders in 2011. In 2014, he was released by Calgary and joined the Hamilton Tiger-Cats later that year.
Guillaume Allard-Caméus retired from professional football after playing his final game with Hamilton in 2016. He currently works as a sports commentator for TVA Sports and is also involved in coaching youth football teams across Canada.
Guillaume Allard-Caméus has been married to Julie since 2013 and they have two children together Guillaume Allard-Caméus was drafted by the Hamilton Tiger Cats in the fifth round of the 2009 CFL Draft. Guillaume started his career with Hamilton before moving on to play for Montreal Alouettes in 2009.
In 2010, he joined Saskatchewan Roughriders and played there until 2014 when he retired from professional football due to an injury sustained during a game against Calgary Stampeders.
After retiring as a player, Guillaume has since worked as a scout for various teams including Ottawa Redblacks and BC Lions before joining Edmonton Eskimos earlier this year as an assistant coach under former teammate Darian Durant.
22. Brandon Banks
Wide receiver
Career
- High school: Garner, (Garner, North Carolina)
- College: Kansas State
- Position: Wide receiver / Return specialist
- Undrafted: 2010
- Washington Redskins (2010–2012), Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2013–2021), Toronto Argonauts (2022)
- Grey Cup champion (2022), CFL's Most Outstanding Player Award (2019), CFL All-Star (2014, 2015, 2018, 2019), CFL East All-Star (2014–2019), NFL Kickoff return yards leader (2011), Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Year (2009), Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year (2008)
- Receptions: 11, Receiving yards: 35, Receiving touchdowns: 0, Return yards: 3,793, Return touchdowns: 1
- Receptions: 11
- Receiving yards: 35
- Receiving touchdowns: 0
- Return yards: 3,793
- Return touchdowns: 1
- Receptions: 422, Receiving yards: 5,678, Receiving touchdowns: 44, Rushing touchdowns: 5, Return touchdowns: 13
- Receptions: 422
- Receiving yards: 5,678
- Receiving touchdowns: 44
- Rushing touchdowns: 5
- Return touchdowns: 13
Banks was undrafted in 2010 but signed with the Washington Redskins. In 2013, Banks signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and helped them win Grey Cup that year.
He was traded to the Toronto Argonauts in 2021 and has continued to be a major part of their offence during his time there. In 2022, he will join the Argonauts as a member of their new roster for the upcoming season.
Brandon Banks is a former NFL and CFL player who is considered one of the best returners in league history. Banks was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 2009, but did not make an impact until he signed with the Chicago Bears in 2012.
In his first season with Chicago, Banks led all returners with 1,204 yards on kickoff returns and two touchdowns. He played for the Atlanta Falcons from 2014 to 2019 before joining the Ottawa Redblacks this year as their primary kickreturner and punt Returner.
In 2020, he will join his third team when he signs with the Calgary Stampeders after spending last season with Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Also Played For: kansas state university
23. Larry Dean
Linebacker
Career
- High school: Tifton (GA) Tift Co.
- College: Valdosta State
- Undrafted: 2011
- Minnesota Vikings (2011–2013), Buffalo Bills (2014), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2015)*, Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2016–2018), Edmonton Eskimos (2019), Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2020)*, Saskatchewan Roughriders (2021–present)
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
- Roster status: Injured
- CFL status: American
- CFL East All-Star (2017, 2018), CFL West All-Star (2019), James P. McCaffrey Trophy - 2018
- Tackles: 37, Quarterback sacks: 0, Interceptions: 0
- Tackles: 37
- Quarterback sacks: 0
- Interceptions: 0
- Tackles: 221, Quarterback sacks: 5, Interceptions: 2
- Tackles: 221
- Quarterback sacks: 5
- Interceptions: 2
Dean played linebacker for the Minnesota Vikings from 2011-2013, before signing with the Buffalo Bills in 2014. After two seasons with the Bills, Dean was traded to Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2015.
He spent one season there before being released in 2016 and joining Hamilton Tiger-Cats that year. In 2018, Dean signed a contract extension with Saskatchewan Roughriders which will keep him with the team through 2020.
Dean played college football at the University of Utah, where he was a two-time All-American. He was drafted by the Edmonton Eskimos in the first round of the 2017 CFL Draft and quickly became one of their key players on defence.
In 2018, Dean led all Canadian defensive players with 82 tackles and added 4 sacks to his résumé. In 2019, Dean won both the James P.
McCaffrey Trophy as league MVP and an East All-Star berth for Edmonton Eskimos after recording 101 tackles (second highest total in CFL) along with 5 interceptions (tied for second most).
24. Geno DeNobile
Career
- CFL status: National
- Position(s): G
- Height: 6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
- Weight: 225 lb (102 kg)
- CJFL: Hamilton Tiger-Cats Junior B's
- Honors: Grey Cup Champion - 1957 & 63
Geno DeNobile was a Canadian football player who played for the Ottawa Rough Riders. He died in 1995 after a long illness. Geno DeNobile is best known for his time with the Ottawa Rough Riders, where he won two Grey Cups and was twice named the CFL's Most Outstanding Player.
Geno DeNobile also played eight seasons in the American Football League (AFL). After retiring from football, Geno DeNobile worked as an analyst with TSN and later served as president of TD Bank Group Canada before passing away in 1995 at the age of 55 years old Geno DeNobile was born on October 15, 1951 in Hamilton, Ontario.
He played for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats from 1956 to 1964 and won two Grey Cups with the team. DeNobile also played nine seasons in the Canadian Football League (CFL).
In 1984 he became head coach of the Saskatchewan Roughriders and led them to a Grey Cup victory that year as well. After leaving Saskatchewan, DeNobile spent a few years coaching at different universities before retiring in 1999.
25. Bo Levi Mitchell
Career
- Status: Active
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): Quarterback
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
- Weight: 198 lb (90 kg)
- College: Eastern Washington (2010-2011)
- High school: Katy (Katy, Texas)
- NFL draft: 2012 / Undrafted
- Hand: Right
- 2x Grey Cup champion (2014, 2018), 2x Grey Cup Most Valuable Player (2014, 2018), 2x CFL Most Outstanding Player Award (2016, 2018), 2x CFL All-Star (2016, 2018), 3x CFL West All-Star (2015, 2016, 2018), 2x CFL passing touchdowns leader (2016, 2018), FCS champion (2010), FCS National Championship Game Most Outstanding Player (2010), Consensus first-team FCS All-American (AFCA, AP, TSN, WCFF) (2011), Walter Payton Award (2011), Big Sky Conference Offensive Player of the Year (2011), CFL records, CFL record for most consecutive wins by a starting quarterback (14), CFL record for best starting record for a first-time quarterback (12 Wins, 1 Loss), CFL record for fastest starting quarterback to 60 wins (72 Starts)
- Passing attempts: 3,866
- Passing completions: 2,496
- Completion percentage: 64.6
- TD–INT: 188-89
- Passing yards: 32,541
- CFL Win/Loss Record: 90-25-2
- Playing stats at CFL.ca
Bo Levi Mitchell is a quarterback for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the CFL. He was drafted by the Calgary Stampeders in 2012, but did not play with them until later that year.
He has since played for them for six seasons, racking up over 25,000 passing yards and 150 touchdowns during that time. Mitchell was named an All-Star twice and won the Grey Cup championship in 2018 as part of the Calgary team.
In 2020 he signed with the Tiger-Cats as a free agent and led them to their first playoff appearance in 20 years Bo Levi Mitchell is a professional Canadian football quarterback who has played for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League (CFL) since he was drafted in the first round of the 2008 CFL Draft.
He holds many records, including most consecutive wins by a starting quarterback and best starting record for a first-time quarterback. Bo Levi Mitchell has also won two Grey Cups with Hamilton; in 2014 and 2018.
In 2016, he was named CFL Most Outstanding Player and in 2018, he became the second player to win three straight awards as CFL West All-Star MVP, passing touchdowns leader and All-Canadian receiver respectively.
Outside of playing football, Bo Levi Mitchell is an accomplished student: Consensus first-team FCS All-American at Idaho State University before transferring to Oregon State where he won.
Walter Payton Award as a most outstanding player while being voted Pac 12 Offensive Player of Year twice during his tenure there (2011–2013).
26. Dominic Alford
Career
- High school: Shaker Heights (OH)
- College: Minnesota
- Undrafted: 2011
- Cleveland Browns (2011–2012)*, Carolina Panthers (2012)*, Cleveland Browns (2013)*, Cleveland Gladiators (2014)*, Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2014)
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
Dominic Alford was born in Cleveland, Ohio on February 22nd 1988. Dominic played football and basketball growing up before turning his attention to playing offensive lineman at Shaker Heights High School.
After standout play for the Vikings' linemen during their 2009 season, he went undrafted but signed with the Browns as an undrafted free agent in 2011. He made his NFL debut that year against the Ravens and has been a regular fixture on the Browns' line ever since, making 82 starts over six seasons.
Despite being largely ineffective in 2018 due of injury, Alford is still considered one of Cleveland's most successful draft picks of all time and someone who has greatly contributed to both team success and individual career growth throughout.
his tenure there so far Dominic Alford was drafted in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns.
He played college football at UCLA, where he caught 256 passes for 3,073 yards and 29 touchdowns. In his rookie season with the Browns (2013), Alford had 54 receptions for 763 yards and four touchdowns.
In 2014, he signed with Hamilton Tiger-Cats of Canada's CFL league and had 67 catches for 1,041 yards and six touchdowns in 16 games played.
27. Garney Henley
Career
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): WR/DB
- Height: 6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
- Weight: 180 lb (82 kg)
- College: Huron
- High school: Hayti (SD)
- AFL draft 1960 / Round: Second Selections
- Drafted by: New York Titans
- NFL draft 1960 / Round: 15 / Pick: 173
- Drafted by: Green Bay Packers
- 4× Grey Cup champion (1963, 1965, 1967, 1972), played in 7 Grey Cup games (1961–1965, 1967, 1972)
- CFL All-Star: 1963–1972
- CFL East All-Star: 1963–1972
- Awards: , CFL's Most Outstanding Player Award (1972), 2× Jeff Russel Memorial Trophy (1963, 1972)
- Honours: , Tiger-Cats' Best-of-the-Century Team (1967), University of Guelph Athletics Hall of Fame, Ontario Sports Hall of Fame (2015), South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame, South Dakota Hall of Fame
- Canadian Football Hall of Fame, 1979, College Football Hall of Fame, 2004
Henley was born in 1935 and played football for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats from 1960 to 1975. He is best known for his time with the Green Bay Packers, where he won two Super Bowls in 1967 and 1968.
Henley also played for the Los Angeles Rams, Houston Oilers, and New York Giants during his career. In 2007, he was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame alongside former CFL players Andy Fantuz and Damon Allen.
Henley retired from professional football in 1975 after winning two more Super Bowls with the Green Bay Packers Garney Henley was a four-time Grey Cup champion with the Tiger-Cats. He also played in seven games during the 1961-1965 and 1967-1972 seasons.
In 1972, he was awarded the CFL's Most Outstanding Player Award. Henley is a member of the Guelph University Athletics Hall of Fame and Ontario Sports Hall of Fame as well as South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame and South Dakota Hall of Fame
28. Tommy Joe Coffey
Career
- CFL status: National
- Position(s): OE/WR/K
- Height: 6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
- Weight: 196 lb (89 kg)
- College: West Texas State
- NFL draft 1959 / Round: 8 / Pick: 96
- Drafted by: Baltimore Colts
- 2× Grey Cup champion (1967, 1972)
- CFL All-Star: 1962, 1964–1968, 1970
- CFL East All-Star: 1967, 1968, 1970
- CFL West All-Star: 1962, 1964, 1965, 1966
- Awards: 1962 – Dave Dryburgh Memorial Trophy, 1962, 1967, 1970 – CFL's Most Outstanding Player Award – Runner Up
- Honors: Edmonton Eskimos Wall of Honour – 1988, Hamilton Tiger-Cats Wall of Honour – 1999
- Canadian Football Hall of Fame, 1977
Tommy Joe Coffey was a Hall of Fame-caliber receiver and kick returner in the CFL. He played for the Baltimore Colts, Dallas Cowboys, and Philadelphia Eagles during his 14-year career.
His most memorable moment came in 1969 when he caught two touchdown passes from Johnny Unitas to help lead the Colts to their first Super Bowl victory. Coffey also served as team captain for both Baltimore and Dallas before retiring following the 1978 season.
In 2011, Tommy Joe Coffey was elected into the Canadian Football League's Hall of Fame alongside players like Doug Flutie and Damon Allen. He died on August 25th 2020 at 83 years old after a long battle with cancer Coffey was born in Edmonton, Alberta on January 10th, 1939.
Coffey played for the Edmonton Eskimos from 1959 to 1966 and won two Grey Cups with the team. Coffey also played for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats from 1967 to 1972 and won another Grey Cup with them. Coffey is currently a broadcaster for CFL games on TSN and ESPN Canada.
Coffey has been inducted into both the Canadian Football Hall of Fame and the Edmonton Eskimo Wall of Honour.
29. Troy Davis
Career
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): RB
- Height: 5 ft 8 in (173 cm)
- Weight: 183 lb (83 kg)
- College: Iowa State
- High school: Miami Southridge, (Miami, Florida)
- NFL draft 1997 / Round: 3 / Pick: 62
- Drafted by: New Orleans Saints
- NCAA, , 2× Consensus All-American (1995, 1996), Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (1996), First-team All-Big 12 (1996), First-team All-Big 8 (1995), Jim Brown Award (1996), Chic Harley Award (1996), , CFL, , Grey Cup champion (2005)
- CFL All-Star: 2004
- CFL East All-Star: 2002–2004
- Attempts: 150
- Rushing yards: 446
- Receptions: 36
- Receiving yards: 237
- College Football Hall of Fame
Troy Davis was born in Miami, Florida on September 14th 1975. He attended Iowa State University where he played football and ran track for the Cyclones.
After college, Davis signed with the New Orleans Saints but only made a handful of appearances during his time there. In 2001, Troy moved to Canada to play for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and enjoyed some success before being traded to Edmonton in 2005.
In 2006, Davis left Canada for good and signed with the Toronto Argonauts where he would spend two seasons before retiring from professional football due to injury in 2007.
After retirement from playing professionally, Troy started working as a police officer in Georgia but was fired after just three months due to allegations of misconduct.
On February 23rd 2011 Troy was executed by lethal injection at Folsom Prison despite claims of innocence from many angles including DNA evidence that has since been proven false...and yet people still believe him.
30. Gerry McDougall
Career
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): RB
- Height: 6 ft 3 in (191 cm)
- Weight: 225 lb (102 kg)
- College: UCLA
- 2× Grey Cup champion (1957, 1965), AFL champion (1963)
- CFL East All-Star: 1957, 1958
Gerry McDougall was born in Long Beach, California on March 21, 1935. He attended UCLA and played running back for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats from 1957 to 1961.
McDougall was one of the most prolific running backs in CFL history, rushing for over 10,000 yards and 60 touchdowns during his career. After retiring as a player, McDougall served as head coach of the Montreal Alouettes from 1978 to 1980 before joining ESPN as an analyst and commentator.
In 2017 he was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame along with five other players including Doug Flutie and Franco Harris.
Gerry McDougall passed away at age 87 on January 12th 2019 after a long battle with Alzheimers Disease Gerry McDougall was a CFL player who won two Grey Cups with the Toronto Argonauts.
After retiring from football, Gerry McDougall became an executive in the Canadian Football League. In 2004, he was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame and in 2007 he received Canada's highest civilian honour, The Order of Canada.
31. Darren Flutie
Career
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): WR
- College: Boston College
- 2× Grey Cup champion (1994, 1999), Eskimos Record: Most Receptions – Game (15) - August 7, 1997
- CFL All-Star: 1996, 1997, 1999
- CFL East All-Star: 1998, 1999
- CFL West All-Star: 1994, 1996, 1997
- Canadian Football Hall of Fame, 2007
Darren Flutie is a two-time CFL MVP and NFL record holder with 36 passing touchdowns. He played for the San Diego Chargers and Boston College, winning two championships in his career.
After retiring as a professional athlete, he became an assistant coach at Natick High School before moving on to Newton South HS in 2014 as its head coach. In 2018, he was appointed the new offensive coordinator at Rivers School in Connecticut.
Darren Flutie is one of the most legendary quarterbacks in CFL history. He was a two-time Grey Cup champion with the Phoenix Cardinals and also won awards for being an All-Star multiple times.
Darren Flutie’s journey to become a successful quarterback was not easy, as he had to overcome many obstacles throughout his career including injuries.
However, despite these challenges, it is clear that Darren Flutie was able to achieve great things both on and off the field due to his natural talent and determination.
After retiring from professional football, Darren has continued to make a significant impact in Canadian society by working as an ambassador for various charities.
In addition, he has also been involved in several business ventures which have helped him financially stability after retirement from football.
32. Tommy Grant
Career
- CFL status: National
- Position(s): WR/RB/PR/KR
- Height: 5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
- Weight: 200 lb (91 kg)
- CJFL: Windsor AKO Fratmen
- CFL All-Star: 1964
- CFL East All-Star: 1963, 1964
- Awards: 1956 - Gruen Trophy, 1964 - CFL's Most Outstanding Canadian Award
- Canadian Football Hall of Fame, 1995
Tommy Grant was born in 1935 in Windsor, Ontario. He played football at the collegiate level for the University of Windsor Golden Hawks and then entered professional football with the Toronto Argonauts in 1958.
Grant spent his entire CFL career with Toronto, being named a All-Star eleven times and winning two Grey Cups (in 1963 and 1965). In 1968, he signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats but retired from playing later that year after suffering a knee injury.
After retirement from playing, Tommy served as president of both the Canadian Football League Players' Association (1974-1975) and the CJFL Windsor AKO Fratmen (1982-1983).
Tommy died on October 18th 2011 at age 76 after a long illness Grant is the most decorated Canadian Football player of all time, with 8 Grey Cup championships and 4 All-Star selections.
Grant was a key part of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats dynasty in the 1960s, winning consecutive East Division titles in 1963 and 1964.
His achievements have led him to be inducted into both the Canadian Football Hall of Fame and the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame; he also holds several other distinctions including being named one of Canada's Top 100 Greatest Athletes by Maclean's Magazine in 2003.
Tommy Grant retired from professional football following the 1968 season, but continued to play for amateur teams until his retirement from sport altogether in 1984 at age 50 years old.
33. Orlondo Steinauer
Career
- Status: Active
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): Head coach
- Height: 5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
- Weight: 182 lb (83 kg)
- College: Western Washington
- High school: Lynnwood
- 3× Grey Cup Champion: 1999, 2004, 2012
- CFL All-Star: 1998, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2007
- CFL East All-Star: 1998, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007
- Honors: , Toronto Argonauts Defensive Player of 2002, 2017 Broyles Award Nominee NCAA Fresno State University DC, 2019 CFL Coach of the Year
- Records: , Second in CFL History for All-Time Interception Return Yards, Most wins by a rookie head coach in CFL History (15)
- Playing stats at CFL.ca (archive)
- Canadian Football Hall of Fame, 2021
Orlondo Steinauer is a head coach in the CFL and has been with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats since 2019. He played college football at Western Washington before embarking on a coaching career.
His first job was as an administrator for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 2020, before taking over as Head Coach in 2021. While he's had some less than stellar seasons with the team, his overall record is respectable given that he's only been around for three years so far.
As a coach, Orlondo Steinauer has had more success - including back to back division titles with Toronto Argonauts in 2010 and 2011).
Outside of football, Steinauer is also involved in philanthropy through his work with Project Play Day Canada (a charity event hosted by NFL player Odell Beckham Jr.).
34. Byron Archambault
Career
- Status: Active
- CFL status: National
- Position(s): Special teams coordinator, Linebackers coach, Director of player personnel
- Height: 6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
- Weight: 236 lb (107 kg)
- University: Montreal
- CFL Draft 2015 / Round: 2 / Pick: 17
- Drafted by: Montreal Alouettes
- Vanier Cup champion (2014)
- Honors: First Team All-Canadian (2014)
- Playing stats at CFL.ca
Byron Archambault has been the special teams coordinator for the Montreal Alouettes since 2018. Prior to that, he spent three seasons as a linebackers coach with the team.
He was also director of player personnel for two years before that. A native of Quebec, Archambault played college football at McGill University in Montreal and was drafted by the Alouettes in 2015.
He is currently one of only four Canadian players on Montreal's roster and has appeared in 47 games over his career so far. After playing CIS football for the Montreal Alouettes, Archambault was drafted in the 6th round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans.
In his rookie season with the Titans, he played in 7 games and recorded 1 interception. Archambault is currently a Defensive Assistant with the Montreal Alouettes and will be working on special teams this upcoming season.
35. Willie Bethea
Willie Bethea was an American football player who played defensive end for the Baltimore Colts of the National Football League. He was drafted in the first round (16th overall) of the 1955 NFL Draft and spent his entire career with the Colts, playing from 1955 to 1970.
Bethea twice led the league in sacks, and he also won three consecutive Pro Bowl selections (1965-1967). In 1969, he became one of only four players ever elected to both The Associated Press' All-Pro team and its First-Team All-NFL squad.
After retiring as a player, Bethea served as a coach for several teams over two decades including stints with the Indianapolis Colts (1971–1972), Miami Dolphins (1973–1974), Seattle Seahawks (1978–1981), Buffalo Bills (1982) and Dallas Cowboys (1986).
36. Rocky Dipietro
Career
- CFL status: National
- Position(s): SB
- Height: 6 ft 3 in (191 cm)
- Weight: 210 lb (95 kg)
- University: Ottawa
- CFL All-Star: 1986, 1989
- CFL East All-Star: 1981, 1982, 1986, 1989
- Awards: 1982 - CFL's Most Outstanding Canadian Award, 1989 - CFL's Most Outstanding Canadian Award
- Canadian Football Hall of Fame, 1997
Rocky DiPietro was born in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario on January 30th, 1956. He played college football at Ottawa and was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the 7th round of the 1977 NFL Draft.
Dipietro played for seven seasons with the Bills before signing with Montreal as a free agent in 1985. He spent twelve seasons with the Alouettes before retiring following the 1999 season. Dipietro was inducted into both the Canadian Football Hall of Fame (1998) and Pro Football Hall of Fame (2008).
Rocky is currently an analyst for TSN's CFL broadcast team and also coaches youth football in his home province of Ontario Rocky Dipietro was a CFL All-Star player in 1986 and 1989. He was also named the league's Most Outstanding Canadian Award in 1982.
Rocky Dipietro played for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats from 1978 to 1991 and retired with the team record for most tackles (1,089). After retiring as a player, Dipietro became an assistant coach with his old team, the Tiger-Cats, before being appointed head coach of the Montreal Alouettes in 2006.
37. Earl Winfield
Career
- Status: Retired
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): WR
- College: North Carolina
- CFL All-Star: 1988, 1995
- CFL East All-Star: 1988, 1994
- Canadian Football Hall of Fame, 2013
Earl Winfield is a retired American football player who played for the Toronto Argonauts and Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Earl Winfield was originally drafted by the Baltimore Colts in the eighth round of the 1980 NFL Draft.
He spent three seasons with Baltimore before signing with Toronto in 1984. Winfield played college football at Virginia Tech, where he was an All-American linebacker in 1982 and 1983.
In 1985, Winfield won his first CFL championship with Toronto after recording 116 tackles and four interceptions during the season.
He also received honourable mention for Most Outstanding Canadian that year. After winning another championship with Winnipeg in 1987, Winnfeild retired from professional football following that season to focus on his business interests outside of football (he later became president of The Business Council of Manitoba).
Earl's son EJ Jr., also plays linebacker professionally; he signed as an undrafted free agent with Seattle Seahawks in 2016.
38. Matt Dunigan
Career
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): Quarterback
- Height: 5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
- Weight: 199 lb (90 kg)
- College: Louisiana Tech
- High school: Lake Highlands, (Dallas, Texas)
- Hand: Right
- 2× Grey Cup champion (1987, 1991)
- CFL All-Star: 1985, 1988, 1995
- CFL East All-Star: 1994
- CFL West All-Star: 1985, 1988
- Awards: 1989 Tom Pate Memorial Award, 1993 Jeff Russel Memorial Trophy
- Passing: 3,057/5,476
- Passing %: 55.8%
- Passing Yardage 43,857 (Avg: 8.0)
- Passing TDs: 303
- Interceptions: 211
- Canadian Football Hall of Fame, 2006
Dunigan played quarterback in the CFL for four seasons, most notably with the Calgary Stampeders. After retiring as a player, Dunigan became head coach of the Calgarians and led them to two consecutive Grey Cup championships.
In 2002, he was named general manager of the Eskimos and held that position until 2004. He then moved on to become assistant coaching coach at Louisiana Tech before taking over as head coach at his alma mater—the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs—in 2006.
Under Dunigan's guidance, the Bulldogs have compiled an 82-25 record (.739) including three conference titles and one BCS bowl appearance (2007).
He announced his retirement from coaching after the 2016 season but remains heavily involved in team affairs through advisory roles and occasional speaking engagements or media interviews.
Dunigan was inducted into both Alberta Sports Hall of Fame (2013) and Canadian Football Hall of Fame’s inaugural class (2016).
39. Andy Hopkins
Career
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): RB
- Height: 5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
- Weight: 186 lb (84 kg)
- College: Stephen F. Austin State
Andy Hopkins was a running back for the Canadian Football League (CFL) from 1971 to 1982. He played for eleven seasons, winning two Grey Cups with the Montreal Alouettes in 1974 and 1978.
Hopkins also played for the BC Lions, Edmonton Eskimos, Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Saskatchewan Roughriders during his career. In 2002 he was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame as part of its inaugural class alongside Tony Dungy and Henry Burris.
Andy died on October 1st, 2017 at age 67 after a long battle with cancer Hopkins was a highly-touted player coming out of college, and he made an immediate impact on the Edmonton Oilers in 1971. He played three seasons with the team before moving to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 1973.
Hopkins had a pretty successful career with the Ticats, amassing over 1,000 rushing yards and five touchdowns in each of his first two seasons there.
In 1975, he won his first Grey Cup championship as part of the team's offence. After four years with Hamilton, Hopkins moved to Montreal for one final season before retiring from football at age 26.
He went on to have a successful coaching career beginning with stints at Lamar University and SFA during the late 1990s and 2000s respectively before joining Oklahoma State's staff as offensive coordinator in 2013.
Andy Hopkins is remembered most fondly by fans for his time spent playing football – especially his roles as champion and All-Star quarterback – but he also has several accolades outside of sport including being named Texas' "Outstanding Citizen" in 2003.
40. Ronald Williams
Career
- Status: Retired
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): RB
- College: Clemson
- High school: Ninety Six High School
Ronald Williams is a retired RB from the CFL. He attended Clemson University, where he was an All-American running back in 1991 and 1992. After playing two seasons with the Oakland Raiders, Williams signed with the Atlanta Falcons in 1995 and played for them until 2003.
Williams finished his career with 1,096 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on 209 carries (5 yards per carry). In 2004, he became an assistant coach at his alma mater Clemson University Ronald Williams was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 1993, and spent three seasons with the team.
He played for Rhein Fire in 1995 before playing for BC Lions of the CFL from 1996-1997. In 1998 he was named an East All-Star after helping Hamilton to a Grey Cup victory over Edmonton Eskimos.
Ron then signed with the Edmonton Eskimos where he would play until 2001, when he retired from professional football at age 30 due to injury.
41. Jimmy Edwards
Career
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): RB
- Height: 5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
- Weight: 195 lb (88 kg)
- College: Oklahoma, Northeast Louisiana
- High school: Classen High School
- CFL All-Star: 1976, 1977
- CFL East All-Star: 1976, 1977
- Awards: , CFL's Most Outstanding Player Award (1977), Jeff Russel Memorial Trophy (1976, 1977), First-team Little All-American (1972)
Jimmy Edwards was an American football running back who played for the CFL's Ottawa Rough Riders and Toronto Argonauts. He had a successful career in both leagues, with over 6,000 rushing yards and 50 touchdowns in his CFL career alone.
His death occurred on July 3rd 2002 after suffering a heart attack while playing basketball at home. Jimmy Edwards is remembered as one of the most successful running backs in Canadian Football League history, and will be missed by all who knew him Jimmy Edwards was a CFL All-Star and MVP in 1977.
He played for the Hamilton Tiger Cats from 1976 to 1978, before joining the Minnesota Vikings in 1979. In 1981, he signed with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers where he won two Grey Cups (1982 & 1983).
After retiring as a player, Jimmy became an assistant coach for his former team - the Saskatchewan Roughriders - in 2004 and 2005 seasons.
42. Steve Stapler
Career
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): WR
- College: San Diego State
- Receptions: 353
- Receiving yards: 5,848
- Touchdowns: 40
Steve Stapler was born on June 28, 1958 in Los Angeles, California. He attended San Diego State University and played wide receiver for the Aztecs from 1977 to 1980.
Stapler was drafted by the Houston Oilers in the fifth round of the 1981 NFL Draft and spent four seasons with them before joining the Chicago Bears in 1985.
In 1990, he signed with the New York Giants and remained with them until 1995 when he retired after playing 12 games for them during their Super Bowl season that year.
After his retirement from football, Stapler worked as a television commentator for both college and professional football games before becoming an analyst for Fox Sports West in 2006 where he currently works.
Steve Stapler played for the Toronto Argonauts from 1980 to 1988. During that time, he recorded 353 receptions for 5,848 yards and 40 touchdowns. After his playing days were over, Steve Stapler went on to have a successful career in coaching.
He has been the head coach of both the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Montreal Alouettes since 2001. Steve Stapper is considered one of the best receivers in Canadian football history, and he was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2009.
43. Keith Baker
Career
- Status: Retired
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): Wide receiver
- Height: 5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
- Weight: 185 lb (84 kg)
- College: Texas Southern
- CFL All-Star: 1982
Keith Baker was born on June 4, 1957 in Dallas, Texas. He attended Texas Southern and played wide receiver for the Tigers from 1976 to 1979.
After his playing days were over, Keith transitioned into coaching where he has been an assistant at various levels since 1990 including stints as receivers coach with the Detroit Lions (1991-1994), Green Bay Packers (1995-1997) and Carolina Panthers (1998).
In 2006, Keith took a position as receivers coach with the Philadelphia Eagles before retiring in 2011 after spending one season with the Oakland Raiders as their offensive coordinator/receivers coach.
As of 2018, Keith is retired but still involved in coaching - this time working with youth football players through his involvement with Champion Football Academy out of Houston.
Keith Baker had an impressive eleven-year CFL career that saw him play for the Montreal Alouettes, Hamilton Tiger-Cats, Ottawa Rough Riders and Philadelphia Eagles.
Keith was a two-time All-Star and three-time West Division champion in his playing days. He retired with over 1,000 receiving yards and ten touchdowns on 91 catches throughout his career.
Keith currently resides in Ontario Canada where he is working as a football coach at his alma mater - Lakehead University.
44. Hal Patterson
Career
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): WR/DB
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
- Weight: 190 lb (86 kg)
- College: Kansas
- NFL draft 1954 / Round: 14 / Pick: 165
- Drafted by: Philadelphia Eagles
- 3× Grey Cup champion (1963, 1965, 1967)
- CFL All-Star: 1962, 1963, 1964
- CFL East All-Star: 1954–1958, 1960, 1962–1966
- Awards: 1956 CFL MOP
- Canadian Football Hall of Fame, 1971
Hal Patterson was an NFL and CFL receiver who played for the Montreal Alouettes in 1958. He attended Kansas where he was a two-time All American wide receiver and first team All Big Eight quarterback.
After his playing career ended, Hal became a successful broadcaster for the Kansas City Chiefs and Toronto Argonauts before retiring in 2001.
Hal Patterson died from leukemia at age 79 on November 21, 2011 after a long battle with the disease.(Kansas City Star) Hal Patterson was a standout player in the CFL and played for eight different teams over 11 seasons.
He won three Grey Cups with the Montreal Alouettes, including back-to-back championships in 1963 and 1965. After retiring from playing, he became an assistant coach with Hamilton during its successful run to the 1970 Grey Cup championship game.
He is now best known as a member of Canada's Football Hall of Fame, where he was inducted in 1971.
Also Played For: montreal alouettes
45. Tony Gabriel
Career
- CFL status: National
- Position(s): TE
- Height: 6 ft 4 in (193 cm)
- Weight: 210 lb (95 kg)
- College: Syracuse
- High school: Burlington Central
- 2× Grey Cup champion (1972, 1976)
- CFL All-Star: 1972, 1974–1980
- CFL East All-Star: 1972, 1974–1981
- Awards: 4× CFL's Most Outstanding Canadian Award - 1974, 1976, 1977, 1978, CFL's Most Outstanding Player Award - 1978
- Retired #s: Ottawa Rough Riders #77
- Records: Ottawa Rough Rider record, most career receiving yards (7,484), Ottawa Rough Rider record, most career receptions (444)
- Canadian Football Hall of Fame, 1985
Tony Gabriel was a CFL All-Star and two time Grey Cup champion with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. He also played in the NFL for six seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, Washington Redskins and Philadelphia Eagles.
In 2007, Tony became one of only four players to have been inducted into both the Canadian Football Hall of Fame and the U Sports Athletics Hall of Fame.
Tony is currently retired from professional football but continues to play amateur ball as president of Burlington's Central Catholic High School varsity football team.
Tony married his wife Sheryl in 1977 and they have three children: daughter Tanya (born 1978), son Chris (born 1981) and son Anthony Jr.(1991). Gabriel was one of the most successful CFL players of all time.
He won two Grey Cups and was named the league's Most Outstanding Canadian Award four times. Gabriel also holds several Ottawa Rough Rider records, including most career receiving yards (7,484) and receptions (444).
After playing his entire career with the Rough Riders, Gabriel retired in 1981 at age 36.
46. Tony Champion
Career
- Status: Retired
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): WR
- College: Tennessee Martin
- High school: Humboldt
- CFL All-Star: 1989
- CFL East All-Star: 1989
Tony Champion was born in Humboldt, Tennessee on March 19, 1963. He played football and baseball at Humboldt High School before playing college football for the University of Memphis.
After graduating from Memphis in 1985, he signed with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent and spent two years on their practice squad before being released in 1987.
Champion then joined the Canadian Football League (CFL) where he played for six teams over thirteen seasons, including stints with the Toronto Argonauts and Hamilton Tiger-Cats . He retired from professional football in 2003 after reaching all-star status with both the Argos and Ticats.
Since retiring from professional football, Champion has worked as a broadcaster for CFL games on TSN , Fox Sports 1 , and ESPN Radio Canada . In 2006, he was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame.
47. Al Brenner
Career
- CFL status: American
- Position(s): DB
- Height: 6 ft 1 in (185 cm)
- Weight: 190 lb (86 kg)
- College: Michigan State
- NFL draft 1969 / Round: 7 / Pick: 170
- Drafted by: New York Giants
- CFL All-Star: 1972
- CFL East All-Star: 1972, 1974
Al Brenner was a professional football player who played for the American Football League (AFL) and National Football League (NFL). He had an illustrious career, playing in over 100 games during his 15-year career.
Al Brenner was born on November 13, 1947 in Benton Harbor, Michigan. He attended Clinton High School and played football there before going on to play college ball at Central Michigan University. After graduating from CMU, Al Brenner joined the AFL's Los Angeles Chargers as a defensive back in 1969.
Over the next few years he would go on to play for other teams in the league including Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins and Oakland Raiders before retiring after the 1985 season with the San Francisco 49ers.
Following his retirement from professional football, Al Brenner continued to work as a sports commentator and coach until his death at age 64 in February 2012 due to heart failure.
Final Words
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats are an iconic Canadian football team located in the heart of Hamilton, Ont. The Tigers have had a long and successful history, with many notable players throughout their years.
Some of the most well-known players to ever play for the Tiger-Cats include Bernie Faloney, Larry Smith, Damon Allen and Marshall Faulk. While there are many great Tiger-Cat players who deserve recognition, these five stand out as some of the best to ever wear a Ticat uniform.
