The Calgary Stampeders have secured a key piece of their offensive and special teams puzzle, ensuring the electrifying talents of receiver and return man Erik Brooks remain in red and white. The club announced the re-signing of the American playmaker to a two-year contract, keeping him off the upcoming free-agent market and in Calgary through the 2027 Canadian Football League season.
A Multi-Dimensional Threat Secured
Brooks, 26, was slated to become a free agent on February 10, but the Stampeders moved decisively to lock down his services. The former Fresno State standout has evolved into a multi-dimensional threat for Calgary, impacting games both as a pass-catcher and as a dynamic return specialist. His ability to flip field position and create big plays has been a valuable asset for the Stamps' offence.
"Any time you can get the ball in your hands, I feel like it’s a privilege," Brooks remarked during the 2025 season. "The team puts trust in me that when I have the ball in my hands, I have to take care of the whole team and make something happen."
Breakout Performance in 2025
The 2025 campaign marked a significant breakout for the Irvine, California native. Playing in all 18 regular-season games and making 14 starts, Brooks compiled impressive all-purpose numbers:
- 51 receptions for 824 yards and 2 touchdowns
- 31 kickoff returns for 665 yards
- 33 punt returns for 335 yards and a touchdown
He showcased his big-play capability as a receiver with a pair of 100-yard games, including a career-best 136-yard performance in the regular-season finale against the Edmonton Elks.
An Electric Moment at McMahon
Perhaps his most memorable highlight came in the Labour Day Classic, where he electrified the McMahon Stadium crowd by returning a punt 86 yards for his first career CFL return touchdown. "To finally get one, it felt really good," Brooks said after the game. "I had a couple up here that I was this close to breaking."
He described the roar of the 27,000-plus fans as he broke away: "It was electric. I heard them getting loud. And I just thought, 'Don’t get caught.' Once I got in the end zone, it felt really good. The crowd was, for sure, behind me."
Brooks continued his contributions into the playoffs, appearing in the Western Semi-Final where he added three catches and multiple returns. By securing his signature for two more years, the Stampeders retain a proven, versatile weapon who is just entering his prime, ensuring their offence and special teams units remain potent and unpredictable for the seasons ahead.
