Edmonton Elks 2025 Season So Far - Record: 1–6 → 5th in CFL West Division

 

The 2025 season marks the Elks’ 67th in the CFL and 76th overall, as they bid to improve on their 7–11 record from 2024 and break a six‑year playoff drought. A major organizational shake‑up led to Chris Morris being named President & CEO, with Ed Hervey returning as GM and Mark Kilam stepping in as permanent head coach — a structure intended to stir true change after interim chaos in 2024 

On offense, the hiring of Jordan Maksymic as offensive coordinator brings continuity from his recent success with the BC Lions’ passing attack. And on defense, former all‑star linebacker J. C. Sherritt joins as defensive coordinator, bringing serious turnover‑oriented credentials.

🚀 Roster Upgrades and Canadian Focus

The off‑season featured a strong national flavor. Tre Ford (qb) and Tyrell Ford (db) reunited for the first time since college; both are marquee Canadian talents. Other key national recruits included Kurleigh Gittens Jr., Kaion Julien‑Grant, Royce Metchie, Robbie Smith, and David Beard on the offensive line.

Tre Ford signed a three‑year extension, affirming his role as undisputed QB1, while the Elks traded McLeod Bethel‑Thompson to bring in veteran Cody Fajardo, adding experience and competition at the pivot position.

The defense was reinforced with returning Jake Ceresna, plus incoming playmakers Jared Brinkman, Royce Metchie, and Robbie Smith — all part of Toronto’s recent Grey Cup team.

In the CFL Drafts, Edmonton added national depth with selections including Darien Newell, Skyler Griffith, Isaiah Knight, and offensive linemen such as Silas Hubert and Domenico Piazza.

📅 Early Season Recap: 1–6 and Still Looking

Despite the promise, the Elks began the regular season with a disappointing 1–6 record, placing them 5th in the West Division as of mid‑season.

🔹 Game 1 @BC Lions – Lost 31‑14

They led 7–3 at halftime but were overwhelmed in the second half. Tre Ford (starting quarterback) scrambled for 54 rushing yards and threw for 178 yards, including a spectacular back‑field escape play, but BC pulled away in the third quarter.

🔹 Game 2 vs Montréal – Lost 38‑28

In their home opener, Ford threw for 308 yards and two touchdowns, and also scored on the ground. The Elks surged in the fourth quarter (22 points), but couldn’t complete the comeback. Rookie linebacker Nick Anderson had nine tackles, but defensive consistency remains an issue.

🔹 Remaining Games

After a bye Week 2, they fell to Winnipeg (23–36) and BC (14–32), before finally earning their sole win: 39–33 over Ottawa in Week 5 at Commonwealth Stadium, with Justin Rankin and the offense showing spark. A pair of tight losses followed:

• 18–21 at Saskatchewan

• 24–28 vs Hamilton
  The Elks currently sit at 1–6, yet their remaining schedule includes home games and divisional matchups that still offer hope

🔍 Key Themes & Challenges

💡 Offensive Identity & Execution

Tre Ford flashes brilliance — especially with his mobility — but the offense struggles to consistently move the chains. Coach Kilam has cited issues maintaining drives and sustaining pressure on opposing defenses .

🛡️ Defense Needs Consistency

Despite adding playmakers, the defense has allowed too many big plays and slow starts. Sherritt’s unit showed fight late vs. Montréal but lacked early intensity. Anderson stressed the need to avoid mistakes and improve execution every snap.

🇨🇦 National Core at Heart

One standout element is the national core. Ford, Gittens, Metchie, Julien‑Grant, and others energize the team’s identity. That depth should pay dividends as the season progresses — if consistency improves.

🧠 Depth & QB Situation

Cody Fajardo provides a reliable backup and potential relief, but starting decisions will revolve around Ford’s growth. The Elks built depth at weapons, including reinforcing the receiving corps and offensive line.

📊 Outlook: Can They Still Turn It Around?

With a strong nucleus and several winnable games ahead, the Elks remain within reach of a playoff push — especially if they can capitalize on valuable home contests and divisional rivalries. Turnarounds are possible with improved discipline and consistency.

Prognosis wise: while the early record is poor, the building blocks are in place. If Tre Ford and the Canadian core can mature, and the defense starts stronger, Edmonton still has a chance to challenge for a playoff spot.