The Edmonton Elks are taking a different approach this season by naming their best quarterback as the starter from the outset. Unlike last year, when Cody Fajardo began the season on the sidelines, the veteran signal-caller will lead the team into the 2026 regular-season opener against the Ottawa Redblacks on Saturday.
A Fresh Start for Fajardo
Fajardo joined the Elks as a free agent in 2025 but was relegated to a backup role while the team hoped for a breakout performance from Tre Ford. The Elks started 1-4 with Fajardo on the bench, and the experiment failed to yield results. Now, with new ownership and a desire to return to winning ways, the team is turning to Fajardo, who was the Grey Cup MVP in 2023 with the Montreal Alouettes.
“Yeah, that’s the CFL. Things happen fast, and the longer you play the more you’re going to get humbled,” said Fajardo, 34. “I’ve had quite my share of being humbled and I think it helps you grow as a person. It helps you mature. Early on in my career, I faced some things that I didn’t handle really well, but later on in my career, I just want to be mature. And I want people to realize, ‘Cody’s a great guy off the field, not just on the field.’ That’s what I want my legacy to be remembered as, and that was the goal.”
From Backup to Leader
Fajardo waited patiently for his opportunity, helping the team in any way he could. When he finally took over as QB1 in Week 8 of the 2025 season, he completed 26 of 33 passes for 346 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions against the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Despite a 21-18 loss, his performance signaled a turning point.
The Elks were eliminated from playoff contention for the fifth straight year in Week 20, but the decision to start Fajardo earlier could have changed their fortunes. This season, the team is committed to putting their best players on the field from the start.
A New Era for the Elks
The Elks have struggled since rebranding in 2020, enduring a 22-game home losing streak and declining attendance. New ownership took over in 2024, aiming to restore the franchise's former glory. By naming Fajardo the starter, the Elks hope to end their playoff drought and re-engage fans.
“This is about winning,” a team source said. “We need our best players on the field, and Cody gives us the best chance to succeed.”
The Elks will kick off their 2026 campaign on Saturday at 5 p.m. on TSN and 880 CHED.
