The Ottawa Redblacks have made a significant roster move by releasing veteran kicker Lewis Ward, a decision announced less than a month before the start of their 2026 training camp. The team emphasized that Ward will forever be remembered as a franchise great, highlighting his remarkable contributions both on and off the field.
A Legacy of Excellence
Shawn Burke, the Redblacks' vice-president of football operations, expressed deep gratitude for Ward's service. "As an organization, we would like to thank Lewis for everything he brought to our football club," Burke stated. "He accomplished so many great achievements during his time here. The accolades and records speak for themselves. He will be forever known as a Redblack great."
Ward, a 33-year-old former University of Ottawa Gee-Gee, established himself as one of the most consistent kickers in professional football history. His career peaked in the late 2010s, when he set a record that remains unmatched.
Record-Breaking Streak
As a rookie in 2018, Ward began a consecutive field goal streak that captivated the Canadian Football League. The streak continued until August 17, 2019, when he finally missed a 31-yard attempt during a game against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats at TD Place. That remarkable run resulted in 69 straight successful field goals, a record that still stands today.
For context, Ward's achievement dwarfs the National Football League record of 44 consecutive field goals held by Adam Vinatieri. His performance earned him the CFL's top rookie and most outstanding special-teams player awards for the 2018 season.
Recent Performance Decline
Despite his historic success, Ward's production has declined in recent years. In 2024, he made 58 of 66 field-goal attempts, achieving an 87.9 percent success rate that ranked sixth in the nine-team league. Last season, his seventh with the Redblacks, he connected on just 35 of 46 attempts, resulting in a 76.1 percent efficiency rating that was the worst in the CFL.
Additionally, Ward missed two convert attempts in three of the past four seasons, signaling a downward trend in his consistency. These factors likely contributed to the team's decision to release him ahead of the new season.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The Redblacks' main training camp is scheduled to begin on May 10 at TD Place, with rookie camp starting on May 6. Ward's release comes at a pivotal time as the team prepares for the upcoming campaign, marking the end of an era for one of the franchise's most iconic players.
While his on-field performance may have waned, Lewis Ward's legacy as a Redblack great remains firmly intact. His record-breaking streak and early career accolades ensure that he will be remembered as a key figure in the team's history, even as the organization moves forward without him.
