Rourke Triumphs as Top Winner at CFL Awards
The CFL Awards showcased standout performances in Canadian football, with Nathan Rourke capturing two prestigious honors. The BC Lions quarterback won both the George Reed Most Outstanding Player and the Most Outstanding Canadian awards on November 13, 2025. This recognition reflects Rourke’s impressive season, following his 2022 win for the Most Outstanding Canadian.
Nathan Rourke’s Dominance in CFL
Nathan Rourke finished the regular season as a key player for the B.C. Lions. He ranked second in passing yards, totaling 5,290. Rourke also achieved 31 touchdown passes, showcasing his offensive prowess. Additionally, he stood out as the league’s leading rushing quarterback, with 564 rushing yards, a 9.2-yard average, and 10 rushing touchdowns.
Under Rourke’s leadership, the Lions secured an impressive 11-7 record, marked by a six-game winning streak. His performance was pivotal in helping the team claim second place in the West Division.
Finalists for Top Awards
- Bo Levi Mitchell: The Hamilton Tiger-Cats quarterback was a finalist for the Most Outstanding Player. He led the league with 5,296 passing yards and a career-high of 36 touchdowns.
- Isaac Adeyemi-Berglund: The defensive lineman from the Montreal Alouettes was a finalist for the Most Outstanding Canadian award, achieving a career-best 11 sacks.
Trey Vaval’s Double Win
In a significant achievement, Trey Vaval of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers won both the Most Outstanding Rookie and the Most Outstanding Special Teams Player awards. Vaval led the CFL in several categories, including punt returns and total yards. His remarkable performance included 75 punt returns, accumulating 957 yards with one touchdown.
Additionally, Vaval excelled in kickoff returns, scoring on two occasions, which was the highest in the league.
Recognition for Veteran Players
- Lirim Hajrullahu: The Toronto Argonauts kicker was a finalist for the Most Outstanding Special Teams Player, setting a CFL record with 12 field goals from over 50 yards.
- Devin Veresuk: The Hamilton Tiger-Cats linebacker was also a finalist for the Most Outstanding Rookie, finishing the season with 67 tackles.
Jermarcus Hardrick Wins Top Lineman
Jermarcus Hardrick of the Saskatchewan Roughriders earned the Most Outstanding Offensive Lineman award, a recognition of his critical role in the team’s success. He supported quarterback Trevor Harris, who passed for 4,549 yards, and running back A.J. Ouellette, who rushed for 1,222 yards.
Mathieu Betts: Defensive Star
Mathieu Betts of the B.C. Lions secured the title of Most Outstanding Defensive Player, highlighting his extraordinary season. Betts recorded a league-high of 15 sacks and won this award previously in 2023.
The 2025 CFL Awards night celebrated the achievements of players who excelled on the field and contributed to their teams’ success throughout the season.
