Full Nelson: Elks extend former first-round pick Cole Nelson

The Edmonton Elks have signed Canadian defensive lineman Cole Nelson to a two-year contract extension that will keep him with the club through 2025.

The six-foot-six, 312-pound lineman was a surprise selection by the Elks in the 2021 CFL Draft, going fifth overall in the first round despite never being a full-time starter at the University of Alberta. In the three seasons since, Nelson has dressed for 20 games and recorded 13 defensive tackles.

The 26-year-old had the best season of his career in 2023, starting seven of the 10 games he played at defensive tackle and recording 10 tackles. He has also spent time as an offensive lineman, seeing action at tackle in the preseason.

Prior to arriving in the CFL, the native of Ponoka, Alta. played 17 career U Sports games for the Golden Bears and made 21 total tackles, one sack, and one fumble recovery.

The Elks open the team’s 75th anniversary season on Saturday, June 8 by hosting the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

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