As the 2026 Canadian Football League (CFL) season approaches, it’s time to gear up for preseason excitement. The preseason officially begins on Monday, May 18, when the Calgary Stampeders face off against the Saskatchewan Roughriders at McMahon Stadium, starting at 3:00 p.m. ET. This event marks the return of football across Canada, even though the outcomes do not weigh in the standings. Here are the top five highlights to watch in the CFL preseason games.
1. Quarterback Playing Time
During preseason, starting quarterbacks usually have limited playtime. However, it is crucial to track their minutes to understand the team’s quarterback hierarchy. Preseason is also a valuable opportunity to see how teams utilize their backup quarterbacks and emerging talent, such as Tre Ford in Hamilton.
2. A Calgary Return
The 2026 preseason opener is taking place at the same location that will host the 113th Grey Cup in November. Fans can envision their favorite teams making it to the championship. With every team starting at a 0-0 record, optimism is high across the league.
3. Depth Chart Movements
While starters don’t always dominate playing time, their in-game moments can reveal a lot about their standing on the team’s depth chart. Preseason games provide a unique perspective on player evaluations post-training camp, allowing both rookies and veterans a chance to stake their claim for larger roles.
4. New Faces in New Places
Preseason offers fans a glimpse of players in their new uniforms, a much-anticipated sight after months of roster changes. Whether it’s A.J. Allen donning Ottawa colors or Wynton McManis representing Hamilton, these moments breathe life into off-season speculation. Viewers can enjoy watching familiar players like AJ Ouellette and Vernon Adams Jr. demonstrating their skills on the field.
5. The Thrill of Football Returns
After a long winter, the arrival of CFL football is a welcome sight for fans nationwide. Preseason may lack a direct impact on the standings, but it represents the beginning of thrilling catches, deep throws, and intense gameplay across Canada. Fans are encouraged to tune into CFL+, TSN, or RDS to experience the excitement once again.
The 2026 CFL preseason games are a golden opportunity for enthusiasts to witness emerging talents and potential storylines unfold. The countdown to kickoff provides hope and inspiration as teams prepare for the competitive season ahead.
