Canadian quarterbacks are experiencing a significant shift, inspired by Tre Ford’s success. Players like Arnaud Desjardins and Jonathan Sénécal believe this is a pivotal time for their careers, with NFL prospects emerging and increased recognition for Canadian talent. As they train together and prepare for potential CFL opportunities, both are focused on honing their skills, with Desjardins considering law as a backup plan and Sénécal willing to wait for his chance to prove himself in the league.
A New Era for Canadian Quarterbacks
RÉGINA | Canadian quarterbacks are witnessing a transformative shift in their career paths, previously hindered by the need to switch positions for advancement. With Tre Ford, who rose through the ranks with the Edmonton Elks and played for the Waterloo Warriors, paving the way, younger players are finding renewed hope. “We can afford to dream big,” expressed Arnaud Desjardins, quarterback for Laval University’s Rouge et Or. “The CFL is becoming more accessible. Tre Ford has walked a similar path and has succeeded, which inspires us to think that we too can achieve such careers. We have earned our place here.”
Historic Opportunities Ahead
Jonathan Sénécal of the University of Montreal Carabins echoes these sentiments, noting the potential for a groundbreaking year for Canadian quarterbacks with NFL prospects like Taylor Elgersma and Kurtis Rourke. “This is a thrilling time for Quebec football, as quarterbacks from our top universities are now being recognized as serious draft candidates. It sets a legacy for the younger generation to aspire to.”
After eight years as rivals, Sénécal and Desjardins are finding common ground as they navigate this crucial stage together. Since arriving in Regina, they’ve been participating in joint interviews for CFL social media and spending significant time together. “The evaluation camp has brought us closer,” Desjardins remarked. “While we’ve always been competitors, this part of our journey together is rewarding. I’m enjoying it.”
Sénécal, regarded as a potential trailblazer for Canadian quarterbacks since his university days, is willing to bide his time with the team that believes in him. “Playing professionally has always been a dream, especially after I chose to pursue the NCAA path for football,” he said. “It’s challenging for a quarterback to break into a CFL lineup, but I’m prepared to wait and invest in the long haul.” He added, “I’m eager to learn for a few years before I get my chance. I want to prove that I can be coached and would prefer to be on a practice squad rather than returning to university for a fifth year.”
Desjardins, confident in his future, has a backup plan awaiting him in a law office after his football career. “Football is my first love, and if I can reach the pros, that would be incredible. If not, I’m excited about my fifth season at Laval,” he stated. Meanwhile, Sénécal has interviews lined up with teams including Edmonton, Montreal, Ottawa, Hamilton, and Saskatchewan, while Desjardins will meet with Winnipeg and Ottawa.
Both quarterbacks are honing their skills during the offseason under the guidance of quarterback coach Myles Gibbon. A former player for the Vanier Cheetahs and in the NCAA, Gibbon imparts his knowledge to some of Canada’s elite quarterbacks. “Myles has transformed my career,” Desjardins noted. “I began training with him at a young age, and we connected multiple times this winter.” Sénécal also trained with Gibbon this offseason, in addition to his gym and running preparations, further enhancing their readiness for the next chapter in their football careers.