Québécois Michael Brodrique signs a new contract

The Canadian Football League (CFL) free agent market is heating up in the nation's capital.

The Ottawa REDBLACKS have officially confirmed the signing of national linebacker Michael Brodrique for the 2026 season. This strategic move allows the organization to strengthen its defensive unit and special teams with an elite athlete from Quebec.

At 27 years of age, Brodrique is no stranger to knowledgeable observers. A first-round pick (2nd overall) in the 2023 CFL Draft, he spent the last three seasons with the Edmonton Elks. During his time in Alberta, the 6-foot-3, 227-pound linebacker played in 38 regular-season games, recording 19 tackles on special teams, two tackles on defense, and one quarterback sack.

A native of Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac, this physical player stood out as one of the most athletic prospects in his class. His return to the East represents a golden opportunity for the REDBLACKS to capitalize on local talent that has already proven itself in the trenches of the league.

A return to his roots for the former Carabins pillar

Before beginning his professional career in the West, Michael Brodrique was a dominant figure in québécois university football. He brilliantly represented the Université de Montréal Carabins, where his versatility and defensive instincts caught the attention of CFL scouts.

By joining Ottawa, Brodrique is joining a defensive unit that is increasingly relying on domestic depth. This signing comes shortly after the announcement of A.J. Allen's contract extension, confirming the Ottawa general manager's desire to solidify the core of his defense. For French-speaking fans in the Ottawa-Gatineau region, the arrival of a Carabins product adds an undeniable local flavor to what promises to be an exciting season at TD Place.

This content was created with the help of AI.