So You Wanna Jump from the Double Blue to the Big Leagues: CFL to NFL, a Statistical Circus Act
Ever watched a CFL game and thought, "Wow, that quarterback could shred defenses in the NFL!" or "That linebacker is a tackling machine – surely the NFL needs him!" Well, buddy, you're not wrong. There have been plenty of CFL stars who've taken their talents south and made a splash in the NFL. But here's the thing: figuring out exactly how many is like counting pigeons in New York City – there's a lot, but a precise number? Fuggedaboutit.
How Many Cfl Players Went To The Nfl |
The Great CFL-to-NFL Migration: More of a Trickle Than a Torrent
There's no official database tracking every CFL player who's ever sniffed an NFL training camp. Some estimates put the number in the hundreds over the CFL's long history. That's a lot of poutine being swapped for kale smoothies, folks.
Here's the reality: the jump from CFL to NFL is a daunting one. The NFL is a bigger, faster, stronger beast. Not every CFL stud can translate their skills. But for those who do, the rewards can be legendary. Think Joe Theismann slinging lasers for the Washington Redskins, or Cameron Wake terrorizing quarterbacks for the Miami Dolphins – both CFL veterans who carved out fantastic NFL careers.
Why Don't More CFL Ballers Become NFL Stars, Eh?
There are a few reasons why the CFL-to-NFL pipeline isn't exactly overflowing. Here's a quick rundown:
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
- Different Game, Different Rules: The CFL field is wider, there are more downs, and the game is just a tad more wide open. An amazing CFL stat line doesn't always translate to NFL success.
- Undrafted Gems: Some CFL stars might have flown under the radar in college, so they never got a shot in the NFL draft. By the time they dominate the CFL, some NFL teams might be hesitant to take a chance.
- Age Matters: By the time some CFL players catch fire, they might be a little long in the tooth for the NFL grind. Father Time may have other plans.
But wait! Don't despair, CFL fans! The transfer does happen, and sometimes it's downright magical. Just look at Brandon Browner, who went from lockdown corner in Calgary to shutting down receivers for the Seattle Seahawks.
The key takeaway? The CFL can be a springboard for talented players, and sometimes, those springboards launch you straight into the NFL stratosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions (Because the Internet Never Sleeps)
How to get from the CFL to the NFL?
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
There's no guaranteed path, but stellar play in the CFL can get you noticed by NFL scouts. Attending NFL combine events and training camps can also help.
How many active NFL players came from the CFL?
There's no definitive answer, but it's likely a small but talented group.
Reminder: Short breaks can improve focus.
Is the CFL easier than the NFL?
The games are different, but both leagues demand top-tier athleticism.
Should I watch the CFL if I'm an NFL fan?
Tip: Keep the flow, don’t jump randomly.
Absolutely! The CFL is a fast-paced, exciting brand of football with its own set of stars.
Who's the best CFL player ever (who also played in the NFL)?
That's a debate for the ages, but legends like Warren Moon and Ricky Williams are definitely in the conversation.