Ottawa Redblacks extend Canadian OL Drew Desjarlais through 2026

Photo courtesy: Scott Grant/CFLPhotoArchive.com

The Ottawa Redblacks have signed Canadian offensive lineman Drew Desjarlais to a contract extension through 2026 where he’ll remain one of the highest-paid non-quarterbacks in the CFL.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to stay in Ottawa, and continue to build on the success that we’ve had this year,” said Desjarlais in a statement. “The chance to remain a part of this group, and keep playing in front of RNation is super exciting.”

By the end of this extension, Desjarlais will have earned over $1 million over four seasons in Ottawa, per his longtime agent Fred Weinrauch. His new deal includes a $50,000 roster bonus on Jan. 15, 2025, $15,000 in marketing money, and a $20,000 bonus for reporting to training camp and passing his physical. In 2026, Desjarlais is also due an off-season roster bonus of $25,000 on Jan. 15, 2026.

“Since Drew arrived in Ottawa, he has demonstrated the leadership qualities and high-end ability that have made him one of the top offensive linemen in the CFL,” said head coach Bob Dyce. “We are delighted to have him locked in as a part of our team for the next two years.”

Desjarlais was a first-round pick of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the 2019 CFL Draft out of the University of Windsor. He won two Grey Cups with the Blue Bombers and was named a West Division all-star in 2021.

The 27-year-old native of Belle River, Ont. signed with the Redblacks ahead of the 2023 season following a one-year stint in the NFL with the New Orleans Saints.