Elks make defensive splash to open CFL free agency

Winnipeg Blue Bombers defensive back Tyrell Ford (30) intercepts the pass intended for Saskatchewan Roughriders receiver KeeSean Johnson during CFL action in Winnipeg on Sept. 7, 2024. (John Woods/The Canadian Press) (John Woods/THE CANADIAN PRESS)

Defence was the priority for Ed Hervey on Day 1 of Canadian Football League free agency.

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The Edmonton Elks general manager made a big splash Sunday, landing some new and familiar names to bolster the Elks' defensive lineup, according to TSN football insider Farhan Lalji.

They include:

• Nyles Morgan, linebacker, to a two-year extension. Morgan is the Elks' staring middle linebacker and recorded 111 tackles last season.

• Jake Ceresna, defensive line, to a one-year deal. The Elks traded the 30-year-old all-star rush end to the Toronto Argonauts a year ago for receiver Kurleigh Gittens Jr. and a draft pick.

• David Beard, offensive line, to a two-year deal. The 31-year-old Sherwood Park native and grad of the University of Alberta played the last two seasons with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats after being traded there by the Elks.

• Tyrell Ford, defensive back, to a two-year deal. The 26-year-old Ford is the twin brother of Elks quarterback Tre Ford and was a CFL all-star for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2024.

• Brett Boyko, offensive lineman, to a two-year deal. The Elks had released Boyko last week.

• Royce Metchie, safety, to a two-year deal. The Canadian safety comes to Edmonton from the Grey Cup-champion Argonauts.

The Elks open training camp in mid-May and will begin the 2025 regular season on the road June 7 in Vancouver against the B.C. Lions before their home opener June 19 against the Montreal Alouettes.