Packers waive former Laurier QB, 2024 Hec Creighton Trophy winner Taylor Elgersma

Canadian Taylor Elgersma has found himself on the outside looking in as the Green Bay Packers made their final cuts to trim their roster down to 53 players. The former Wilfrid Laurier star quarterback was placed on waivers along with several other Canadians who were released by NFL teams.

Elgersma, hailing from London, Ont., could potentially find a spot on the Packers’ practice roster if he clears waivers. Despite a strong preseason performance where he completed 16-of-23 passes for 166 yards and a touchdown, the six-foot-five quarterback will not start the season on Green Bay’s active roster.

In addition to Elgersma, other Canadians who were released by NFL clubs include tight end Nikola Kalinic, receiver Ajou Ajou, offensive linemen Sidy Sow and Kyle Hergel. The San Francisco 49ers also released three quarterbacks, including Canadian Kurtis Rourke who is currently recovering from knee surgery.

Kalinic, a Toronto native, was hoping to make the Atlanta Falcons’ roster after spending time with the Los Angeles Rams. Ajou, who signed with the Indianapolis Colts in January, had a solid preseason showing with four catches for 27 yards. Sow, a Bromont, Que., native who played collegiately at Eastern Michigan University, was entering his third season with the New England Patriots.

Hergel, a Toronto native who was selected in the first round of the 2024 CFL draft by the Saskatchewan Roughriders, was looking to build on his rookie season with the New Orleans Saints. Wilson, a former Winnipeg Blue Bomber, was released by the New York Jets as he looks to pursue opportunities in the NFL.

Despite the disappointment of being released, these Canadian players will continue to work towards their NFL dreams and look for opportunities to showcase their talents on the football field. Whether it’s on an active roster, practice squad, or through other avenues, these players remain determined to make their mark in professional football.