Breaking News: The Edmonton Elks have cut quarterback Tre Ford, forfeiting a $110,000 roster bonus, making him an unrestricted free agent. Ford, who was touted as the starter, was benched after a 1-4 start last season, with Cody Fajardo taking over and leading the team to a 6-7 record. Ford spent three years with the Elks, completing 67% of his passes and throwing for 4,651 yards with a 10-13 record in 23 starts.
Elks Release Tre Ford: What’s Next for the Former CFL Star Quarterback?
Tre Ford’scontract torn up, future uncertain
The Edmonton Elks have parted ways with Canadian quarterback Tre Ford, tearing up his contract just days before he was set to receive an $110,000 offseason roster bonus. Ford, who was expected to earn up to $417,500 including bonuses and incentives in the 2026 CFL season, is now a free agent.
From starter to benchwarmer
Just a year ago, Elks general manager Ed Hervey had high hopes for the 27-year-old, handing him a contract befitting a starting CFL quarterback. However, Ford’s tenure at the helm was short-lived. After a disappointing 1-4 start to the 2025 season, Cody Fajardo was introduced as the new starter, and Ford never took another snap.
Did you know? Ford completed 67% of his passes, throwing for 4,651 yards, 29 TDs, and 19 interceptions in 60 CFL games. His six-foot, 190-pound frame and 9.1 yards per carry rushing average made him a dynamic threat on the ground too, scoring 9 total majors. Still, it wasn’t enough to keep his starting job.
Fajardo’s emergence and Elks’ struggles
Fajardo’s insertion into the lineup breathed life into the Elks’ season. He went 6-7 as a starter, throwing for 3,408 yards, 14 TDs, and 7 interceptions. Meanwhile, Ford, starting the first five games, went 1-4 with 984 passing yards, 5 TDs, and 3 interceptions.
The Elks finished 7-11, missing the playoffs for the fifth straight year, and ranked ninth in net offence and defence, with the fifth-best turnover differential. Justin Rankin led the team in rushing (1,013 yards), Kaion Julien-Grant in receiving (820 yards), and Joel Dublanko in tackles (80). Average attendance fell by 7.1% to 19,050.
Elks’ decision: Necessary or premature?
The Elks’ decision to release Ford begs the question: was it necessary or premature? Ford has shown promise, but inconsistency has marred his CFL career so far. Here’s what some fans and experts are saying:
@CFLFan4Life: “Let’s see if Ford can find his form elsewhere. The Elks tried, but sometimes a change of scenery is best for both parties.”
@CFLInsider: “Ford’s release is a gamble. He still has plenty of upside. Some team will take a chance on him, but it’s a risk given his inconsistency.”
What’s next for Tre Ford?
The NFL has shown interest in Ford’s services in the past. With his dual-threat abilities, another chance south of the border could be on the cards. Or perhaps another CFL team will give him another shot at redemption. The speculation is rife, but one thing is clear: Tre Ford’s future in the CFL is uncertain.
FAQs
Was Tre Ford injured?
No, Ford was not injured during the 2025 season. His benching was purely performance-related.
Could Ford return to the Elks in the future?
While anything is possible in the CFL, it seems unlikely given the Elks’ decision to release him and the emergence of Cody Fajardo.
Final Thoughts
The CFL quarterback landscape just got a bit more interesting. Tre Ford’s release from the Elks raises questions about his future and the Elks’ decision-making. With the 2026 season still far off, only time will tell how this situation unfolds.
Call to Action
What do you think about the Elks’ decision to release Tre Ford? Is it a necessary move or a gamble that could backfire? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to explore more of our CFL coverage here at 247Sports!