CFLPA files grievance for Stamps’ linebacker Nate Holley to get NFL shot

Screenshot courtesy: Calgary Stampeders

The CFLPA is taking exception to the Calgary Stampeders not releasing linebacker Nate Holley to explore NFL opportunities — filing a grievance on his behalf.

The news comes on Friday afternoon from TSN’s Dave Naylor.

Holley signed with the Stampeders following a stint with the Los Angeles Rams thinking that the “NFL window” would be open for him even though he signed with the Stamps through the 2020 season according to Naylor.

Holley’s NFL representation tells Naylor in the report that Holley was told he would have chances to explore the NFL after the first and second years of the deal.

“Nate’s impression, and what he told me, was that Calgary would give him a window to workout for NFL teams between his first and second year on the contract,” said Kyle Strongin told Naylor.

“At the end of the year, I heard from some NFL teams that Nate was not on the approved workout list given to them by the NFL, which was different than what we anticipated or expected.”

Calgary had previously released defensive back Tre Roberson to check out the NFL.  Winnipeg Blue Bombers did the same for defensive lineman Jonathan Kongbo.

The “NFL window” has continued to be a hot topic in the CFL, where the league and especially the players association seem to support the idea but the league has been having trouble getting the NFL and more importantly the NFLPA on board, leaving the whole thing stuck in purgatory.

Holley played in all 18 games last year where he picked up 78 defensive tackles, 22 special team tackles, one sack and one interception and was named the league’s most outstanding rookie.