Drooid Logo
Back to story perspectives

Full Breakdown

Tre Ford Signs with Hamilton Tiger-Cats: A New Chapter for the Quarterback

2/3/2026, 7:06:15 AM

Tre Ford's Transition to the Tiger-Cats

Tre Ford, a quarterback from Niagara Falls, Ontario, has signed a two-year contract with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, as reported by 3DownNation's Justin Dunk. This agreement extends through the 2027 season, positioning Ford as a potential backup to veteran quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell. Ford, 27, was recently released by the Edmonton Elks after a challenging season where he lost his starting position following a 1-4 record.

Career Overview

Ford's professional career began when he was selected by the Edmonton Elks in the first round (eighth overall) of the 2022 CFL Draft. Over four seasons with the Elks, he participated in 60 games, completing 359 of 534 passes for a total of 4,651 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions. Additionally, he contributed 1,129 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns. Prior to his professional career, Ford excelled at the University of Waterloo, where he won the Hec Crighton Trophy in 2021, awarded to the best player in Canadian university football.

Official Statements & Responses

Scott Milanovich, head coach of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, expressed optimism about Ford's potential impact on the team. He stated, “Tre is a talented young quarterback who will add value to our QB room... I am very excited to work with him and look forward to helping him become the player that he knows he can be.” Milanovich emphasized that Ford will be evaluated based on his performance in practice and games, while also highlighting Mitchell's role as the team's captain and starting quarterback.

Criticism & Opposition

Despite the positive outlook from the Tiger-Cats' coaching staff, some analysts have raised concerns about Ford's transition to a backup role after a tumultuous season with the Elks. Critics argue that his previous performance may not fully prepare him for the competitive environment in Hamilton, particularly under the shadow of an established quarterback like Mitchell.

What's Next for Tre Ford

As Ford joins the Tiger-Cats, he will have the opportunity to learn from Mitchell and compete for the backup quarterback position. His performance in training camps and preseason games will be crucial in determining his role within the team as the CFL season approaches.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “Tre is a talented young quarterback who will add value to our QB room,” — Scott Milanovich, Head Coach, Hamilton Tiger-Cats
  • “Like all of our quarterbacks, he will be judged based on what we see in the meeting rooms and practice, as well as the way he performs in the games. Bo Levi Mitchell is our Captain and unquestioned starter at quarterback, and Tre will have a great opportunity to learn from him and compete for our backup quarterback job. I am very excited to work with him and look forward to helping him become the player that he knows he can be.” — Scott Milanovich, Head Coach, Hamilton Tiger-Cats