Three former UConn football stars are taking their talents north of the border, signing with Canadian Football League teams ahead of the 2026 training camp. It's a familiar path for Huskies who don't land on an NFL roster, and these three are ready to make their mark in the CFL.

First up, defensive back Wright joined the Ottawa Redblacks on April 23, just days before the CFL draft. Wright's journey to Canada has been a winding one. After a standout 2024 season at UConn—where he recorded 46 tackles, a sack, and a memorable 96-yard fumble return for a touchdown against Temple—he spent the 2025 NFL preseason with the Cleveland Browns and attended minicamp with the Philadelphia Eagles. But a spot on the 53-man roster never materialized, leading him to Ottawa.

The Redblacks didn't stop there. On December 4, 2025, they also signed defensive lineman Stafford. A Pennsylvania native, Stafford played three seasons at UConn (2022-2024), racking up 109 tackles, two fumble recoveries, and a sack. He also showed his versatility by lining up in the backfield 15 times, scoring six touchdowns. In his final season, he earned a spot on the 2025 East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 Watch List.

Rounding out the trio, defensive back Harris Jr. signed with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on May 2, shortly after the CFL draft. Harris Jr. took the scenic route to Storrs, spending time at Iowa Central Community College, Indiana State, and New Mexico before finishing his college career at UConn. In 10 games for the Lobos in 2024, he posted 29 tackles and showed the versatility that caught Winnipeg's eye.

For fans of UConn football, seeing these three former Huskies head to the CFL is a reminder that the path to professional football isn't always through the NFL. The CFL offers a competitive stage where players like Wright, Stafford, and Harris Jr. can continue to develop and showcase their skills. And for those of us who love the game, it's another reason to keep an eye on the league up north.