Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Saskatchewan Roughriders excel in CFLPA report cards

The world of Canadian football is not just about touchdowns and tackles; it's also about the behind-the-scenes operations that contribute to a franchise's success. The latest report cards from the CFL Players' Association (CFLPA) shed light on the operational side of the league, revealing which teams excel in various areas that impact player experience and overall franchise health.

As fans eagerly await the start of the season, understanding how these teams are evaluated can provide insight into their potential performance and overall culture. The recent evaluations have highlighted both triumphs and areas needing improvement, making it essential for teams to continuously adapt and grow.

Performance and profitability of the Saskatchewan Roughriders

The Saskatchewan Roughriders, a storied franchise in the Canadian Football League (CFL), have consistently been a powerhouse, both on and off the field. Recent evaluations indicate that they not only enjoy robust performance in games but also maintain a healthy financial profile. Economic factors such as merchandise sales, ticket revenues, and community support contribute to their profitability.

In the latest CFLPA report card, the Roughriders earned five As, indicating excellence in critical areas like:

• Coaching staff
• Football operations
• Strength and conditioning
• Team travel
• Training camp

However, they received a C for the treatment of families, indicating room for improvement in how the organization supports players and their loved ones during games and events.

Hamilton Tiger-Cats’ on-field success and off-field excellence

Last season, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats demonstrated impressive prowess on the field, finishing at the top of the East Division in 2025. Beyond their competitive edge, they have been recognized for their exceptional off-field operations. The Tiger-Cats achieved five As and five Bs in the recent report cards, showcasing a well-rounded approach to team management.

Key areas where the Tiger-Cats excelled include:

• Football operations
• Facilities and equipment
• Strength and conditioning
• Team travel
• Training camp

Players praised the organization for its commitment to excellence, with one stating anonymously, “This club is the class of the CFL and goes beyond the call of duty,” further noting that they even hosted Thanksgiving dinner for players and their families.

Salary cap implications for the Roughriders

The salary cap is a crucial element in maintaining fairness and competitiveness within the CFL. For the Saskatchewan Roughriders, understanding and navigating this financial framework is essential for building a winning team. The current salary cap, set by the league, dictates how much each team can spend on player salaries, impacting both recruitment and retention strategies.

This cap ensures that all teams have a fair chance at assembling competitive rosters, promoting parity across the league. As the Roughriders strategize for future seasons, they must balance the desires for star players with the realities of the salary cap.

CFLPA survey insights: players' perspectives

The CFL Players’ Association distributed a comprehensive 78-question survey, capturing feedback from 381 players about their experiences across various teams. This feedback is invaluable for teams to understand how they can enhance player satisfaction and operational efficiency.

The survey covered several key areas, including:

• Quality of facilities
• Strength and conditioning programs
• Medical staff and therapy
• Travel experiences
• Nutrition and dietary support

Scores were averaged to create a more comprehensive picture of each team's strengths and weaknesses, allowing franchises to identify specific areas needing improvement.

Notable grades and areas for improvement in the league

While many teams performed well, a few garnered significantly lower grades, highlighting areas in dire need of attention. For instance, the B.C. Lions received an F for their nutrition and diet programs, with players expressing serious concerns about the quality of food provided, stating, “The overall nutrition of our team is very below par and what it should be for a professional football team.”

The Montreal Alouettes faced harsh criticism for their family treatment during games, receiving an F for that category. A player commented that “family support and treatment on gameday is non-existent,” indicating a critical area for the franchise to address.

In contrast, the Edmonton Elks made noteworthy improvements from previous evaluations, although they still faced criticism regarding rehabilitation services and accommodations for visiting players, which were described as “unacceptable” by survey respondents.

Comparative performance of other franchises

Aside from the top-performers, teams like the Toronto Argonauts and Calgary Stampeders also had mixed reviews. The Argonauts achieved high marks for their therapy and medical staff and travel arrangements but encountered lower scores in coaching staff evaluations.

The Calgary Stampeders faced challenges in their medical staff and treatment of families, with players noting insufficient attention and resources in these areas. This inconsistency across the league emphasizes the need for franchises to prioritize player wellbeing and support systems.

The role of the CFLPA and future evaluations

The CFLPA's collaboration with experts like Dr. Desmond McEwen from the University of British Columbia enhances the validity of these evaluations, ensuring that feedback is not only comprehensive but also actionable. The primary goal of the survey is to spotlight teams setting positive examples while identifying where improvements can be made.

This initiative mirrors practices from other professional sports leagues, like the NFL, which have also begun implementing player feedback mechanisms to enhance team operations.

As the CFL continues to evolve, the importance of player perspectives becomes increasingly evident, paving the way for better conditions and more fulfilling experiences for athletes on and off the field.