The Canadian Football League (CFL) has seen numerous legendary figures grace its fields, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. From quarterbacks to receivers, running backs, and defensive players, the CFL's history is rich with iconic athletes who have redefined the game.
1. Doug Flutie
Position: Quarterback
Years in CFL: 1990–1997
Career Achievements:
- Six-time CFL Most Outstanding Player Award winner
- Three-time Grey Cup champion (Calgary in 1992, Toronto in 1996 and 2007)
- CFL records for single-season passing yards (6,619) and touchdowns (48)
Doug Flutie's impact on the CFL is undeniable. His exceptional skills and leadership on the field solidified his position as one of the greatest quarterbacks in CFL history.
2. Milt Stegall
Position: Wide Receiver
Years in CFL: 1995–2008
Career Achievements:
- CFL's all-time leading receiver with 15,153 yards
- Record for most touchdowns in CFL history (147)
- Nine-time CFL All-Star
Milt Stegall's exceptional career as a wide receiver has cemented his status as one of the CFL's greatest players. His record-breaking performances and longevity in the league showcase his unmatched skill and impact on Canadian football.
3. John Helton
Position: Defensive Lineman
Years in CFL: 1969–1982
Career Achievements:
- Ten-time CFL All-Star
- Inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 1986
- Played a pivotal role in leading the Stampeders to a Grey Cup championship
John Helton's dominance as a defensive lineman and his extensive list of accolades make him a standout figure in CFL history. His impact on the game and his contributions to the teams he played for have solidified his place among the league's elite players.
4. Allen Pitts
Position: Slotback
Years in CFL: 1990–2000
Career Achievements:
- Held the league's all-time receiving yards record at the time of his retirement (14,891 yards)
- Six-time CFL All-Star
- Two-time Grey Cup champion (Calgary in 1992 and 1998)
Allen Pitts' exceptional career with the Calgary Stampeders and his impact on the game as a prolific receiver have firmly established his legacy as one of the top players in CFL history.
5. Michael "Pinball" Clemons
Position: Running Back, Kick Returner
Years in CFL: 1989–2000
Career Achievements:
- 682 receptions for 7,015 yards
- Rushed for 5,341 yards
- Part of six Grey Cup championship teams
"Pinball" Clemons' electrifying performances and versatility on the field have made him one of the most iconic and beloved figures in CFL history. His impact as a player and later as a coach and executive demonstrates his enduring influence on Canadian football.
6. Damon Allen
Position: Quarterback
Years in CFL: 1985–2007
Career Achievements:
- Second all-time passing yards leader in the CFL (72,381 yards)
- Third on the all-time CFL games played list with 370
- Inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2012
Damon Allen's illustrious career as a quarterback and his remarkable achievements in the CFL have solidified his status as one of the league's all-time greats.
7. Anthony Calvillo
Position: Quarterback
Years in CFL: 1994–2013
Career Achievements:
- CFL's all-time passing leader with 79,816 yards
- CFL's all-time passing touchdowns leader with 455
- Three-time Grey Cup champion
Anthony Calvillo's extraordinary career as a quarterback and his numerous records and accolades place him among the most influential and successful players in CFL history.
8. George Reed
Position: Running Back
Years in CFL: 1963–1975
Career Achievements:
- Second on the all-time touchdown list with 137
- Second in all-time rushing yards with 16,116
- Eleven seasons with 1,000 rushing yards, a CFL record
George Reed's exceptional career as a running back and his remarkable achievements with the Saskatchewan Roughriders have cemented his place as one of the most prolific players in CFL history.
9. Garney Henley
Position: Defensive Back, Wide Receiver
Years in CFL: 1960–1975
Career Achievements:
- Inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 1979
- Played 216 games for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats
- Exceptional performance as both a defensive back and wide receiver
Garney Henley's versatility and exceptional skills as a defensive back and wide receiver have solidified his status as one of the most influential and respected players in CFL history.
10. Mike Pringle
Position: Running Back
Years in CFL: 1992–2004
Career Achievements:
- CFL's all-time rushing leader with 16,425 yards
- Three-time CFL Most Outstanding Player
- Exceptional performances for various CFL teams
Mike Pringle's remarkable career as a running back and his record-breaking achievements in the CFL have firmly established his legacy as one of the top players in league history.
These top 10 CFL players of all time have not only redefined the game but have also inspired generations of football enthusiasts, leaving an enduring impact on Canadian football that will be celebrated for years to come.