Toronto Argonauts Notebook: A chance to start things right in training camp
With the 2025 CFL Draft now in the books, the Toronto Argonauts are turning their attention to training camp with a blend of optimism and realism.
As is always the case in the CFL, Toronto had to figure out how to fill some of the holes left by players who left in free agency. The Argos defence saw their fair share of players leave but fortunately, they were able to retain some including Wynton McManis who was clearly the top priority to bring back.
The draft itself won't immediately help fill in some of those necessary areas, but what do we need to know about the newest players drafted by the Argos, and what are some things to watch as training camp is set to open?
How the Argos approached the draft this year
The Argos added a mix of high-upside futures and players who could make an immediate impact.
Some of the picks are also dealing with some injuries so expect a few to not be on the field during the early part of camp.
Head coach Ryan Dinwiddie acknowledged that while some picks are still recovering from injuries, the front office was confident in their value long term.
“We feel like we got some really good players, not only for this season but also for the future,” Dinwiddie said. “Some of these guys were really high on our board.”
Among the most notable selections were defensive linemen Jeremiah Ojo and Paris Shand, both of whom have drawn interest from NFL camps.
The strategy here is that while both could be looking to spend time chasing NFL opportunities, the chance of one or both making it to the CFL was hard to pass up.
“Paris was my No. 1 player on the board,” Dinwiddie revealed. “I was surprised he made it to our second pick, especially with the money he signed for down south.”
The Argos only selected three offensive players in the draft, which wasn't a coincidence, as the Argos felt that they didn't need to address that side of the ball as much.
Dinwiddie also attributed it to the way the draft board played out.
“We liked the O-line class, didn’t love the receivers, and we already have depth there,” he explained. “We grabbed a running back late who we really liked, but overall, the value was more on the defensive side.”
One of those offensive additions, offensive lineman Gavin Coakes, stood out in pre-draft interviews and has experience around elite units at the collegiate level and the Argos see him fitting into a leadership role down the stretch.
An RB pick that brings versatility
One of the team’s late-round picks, running back Joey Zorn, also impressed Dinwiddie with his toughness and versatility.
“We’re going to find a place to put him on the field and groom him,” Dinwiddie said.
Expect the Argos to take things slow with Kelly
Starting quarterback Chad Kelly continues recovery from the gruesome ankle injury he suffered in the East Final, and it's something the team will closely monitor.
“We’re thinking about easing him into it,” Dinwiddie said. “Hopefully, around mid-camp, we’ll start ramping things up.”
New Faces, New Identity
The Argos will feature some fresh faces not just on the field, but on the coaching staff as well. Jason Shivers joins the team as co-defensive coordinator alongside Kevin Eiben, a pairing the head coach hopes will inject new ideas into the defence.
“We’re going to be a little bit different on defence,” Dinwiddie said. “Jason brings a fresh perspective, and Kevin keeps some continuity. It’s a good combination.”
Greg Marshall joins the staff, replacing Demetrious Maxie as the defensive line coach. Dinwiddie praised Marshall's old-school mentality and leadership style.
A Team with a Chip on Its Shoulder
Despite a Grey Cup win and a nice run of success since Dinwiddie took over as coach, he knows the Argos will have doubters.
“Every year, people don’t pick us,” he said. “So we’ve got something to prove.”
As the team prepares to open camp in Guelph, Ont., Dinwiddie is focused on building chemistry and letting competition drive improvement.
“New team, new identity,” he said. “We’ve got to find new ways to win football games.”