The CFL continues to benefit from the USFL-XFL Merger following the UFL’s final cuts. After many players opted to remain down south in 2023 (Wes Hills, and McLeod Bethel-Thompson), the merger from the USFL-XFL cut the American Spring Football workforce in half, forcing many players to take their talents to the Great White North.
Since the Battlehawks began making their cuts, and finalizing their 50-man roster, Two of their former players opted to join the CFL within weeks of getting waived by St. Louis. Jazston Turnetine an Offensive Tackle, and Anthony Witherstone a Defensive Back joined the Montreal Alouettes, and Winnipeg Blue Bombers respectively in the last couple weeks.
Along with Turnetine and Witherstone, Former Battlehawk Chris Cooper and Battlehawks Rookie Signing Erick Black both have made their way to the CFL signing with the BC Lions, and Edmonton Elks respectively.
Former Battlehawks weren’t the only UFL Alums to join the CFL, with this past week, with Jack Coan, Terrell Bonds, Dezmon Patmon, and Carson Taylor to name a few all heading North in an effort to extend their football careers. With the cessation of 8 teams during the off-season, the CFL should see a boost in talent with players options dwindling in the United States as of right now.
