The Edmonton Elks are setting their sights on a Grey Cup championship as they open training camp, with quarterback Cody Fajardo leading the charge. Fans, long starved for success, are eager for a turnaround.
Training Camp Begins with High Hopes
On May 10, 2026, the Elks kicked off their training camp in Edmonton, with Fajardo taking snaps under the watchful eye of coaches. The team is determined to build on last season's improvements and make a deep playoff run.
Fajardo, who joined the Elks in 2024, has brought stability to the quarterback position. His leadership and experience are seen as key to the team's success. "We have the pieces to compete for a championship," Fajardo said. "It's about executing and staying healthy."
Fan Expectations High
Elks fans have endured several losing seasons, but there is renewed optimism. Season ticket sales have surged, and the atmosphere at camp is electric. "Fans are yearning for a winning team," said head coach Jarious Jackson. "We feel that energy and want to deliver."
The Elks have bolstered their roster through free agency and the draft, adding depth on both sides of the ball. Key acquisitions include defensive lineman Shawn Oakman and receiver Steven Dunbar Jr.
Grey Cup Aspirations
The Elks have not won the Grey Cup since 2015, and the drought weighs heavily. But with a talented core and a favorable schedule, the team believes this could be their year. "We're not just aiming for the playoffs; we want to hoist the trophy," Jackson emphasized.
Training camp will be crucial in determining the final roster. The team will scrimmage against the Calgary Stampeders in a preseason game later this month before opening the regular season on the road against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
As the Elks prepare, the message is clear: the time for winning is now.
