A record six members of the University of Windsor Lancers were selected in Tuesday's Canadian Football League Draft, highlighting a strong showing for local talent. Eight players with ties to the region were among the 74 picks in the eight-round draft.
Lancers Set New Mark
The six Lancers selected broke the previous school record of four set in 2025, which itself surpassed the old mark of three from 2016. Head coach Jean-Paul Circelli praised the achievement.
"To have six student-athletes selected speaks volumes," Circelli said. "It shows the rest of the country that Windsor is a special place, that develops great talent and that we're building the right way."
First Lancer Off the Board
Defensive back Ethan John was the first Lancer chosen, going to the Toronto Argonauts in the second round with the 16th overall pick. The 24-year-old Minnesota native expressed gratitude.
"I'm grateful to be the first (Lancer) off the board," John said. He admitted adjusting to the Canadian game was challenging after moving from cornerback to halfback. "The Canadian game's a lot tougher on defensive backs, but it helped me learn spatial awareness and leverage. I really like the Canadian game."
More Lancers Selected
Running back Liam Talbot was taken by the Montreal Alouettes in the fourth round (37th overall). The five-foot-11, 210-pound Talbot, who also returns kicks, missed part of last season due to injury but remained confident. "I was not worried after I got the call that I got invited to the (CFL) Combine," the 22-year-old said.
Montreal also selected defensive back Harrison Daley in the fifth round (46th overall). "It's an incredible opportunity to be selected by such a great organization," Daley said. "They're getting a physical and relentless player."
The British Columbia Lions took receiver Tyriq Quayson in the sixth round (49th overall). Quayson transferred to Windsor after also competing in track and field at Laurier.
In the eighth round, the Toronto Argonauts selected running back Weagbe Mombo with the 67th pick. The five-foot-11, 215-pound Mombo, a Toronto native, said, "I'm just so happy to even see my name called, let alone be able to be selected by my hometown CFL team."
Two picks later, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers drafted record-setting kicker Brady Lidster with the 69th overall pick. "I'm grateful for the opportunity and ready to work," Lidster said.
Local Talent Shines
In addition to the six Lancers, two other players with local ties were drafted, underscoring the depth of football talent in the Windsor area. The 2026 draft marked a historic moment for the program and the region.
