The Edmonton Elks have made a significant move to solidify their special teams unit, announcing a contract extension for Canadian long-snapper Julien Grant that will keep him with the club through the 2026 Canadian Football League season.
This new deal represents a strong vote of confidence in the 30-year-old veteran, who has become a reliable and consistent presence in the Elks' lineup since joining the team. Grant's specialized role, while often underappreciated by casual fans, is absolutely critical to the success of field goals, extra points, and punts.
A Pillar of Special Teams Stability
General Manager and Head Coach Chris Jones emphasized Grant's importance to the team's structure. "Julien has been a model of consistency and professionalism in our special teams unit," Jones stated. "Securing a player of his calibre for the long term allows us to build with confidence and maintain stability in a crucial phase of the game."
Since arriving in Edmonton, Grant has demonstrated remarkable reliability in his snapping duties, contributing directly to the success of kicker Dean Faithfull and the special teams squad. His veteran presence also provides invaluable leadership for younger players developing their skills.
Proven Track Record in the CFL
Julien Grant brings extensive CFL experience to the Elks' roster. The Brampton, Ontario native previously showcased his talents with the Toronto Argonauts, where he contributed to a Grey Cup championship team. This championship pedigree adds a winning mentality to the Elks' locker room as the organization continues its rebuild.
The contract extension signals the Elks' commitment to building a competitive team from the ground up, recognizing that championship teams require excellence in all three phases of the game: offense, defense, and special teams.
With Grant's future secured, the Elks can now focus their offseason efforts on addressing other roster needs while knowing they have one of the CFL's most dependable long-snappers locked in for multiple seasons.
