The Hamilton Tiger-Cats have made significant selections in tonight’s CFL draft, acquiring eight national players, notably offensive lineman Nathaniel Dumoulin-Duguay, chosen in the first round as the seventh overall pick.
Dumoulin-Duguay, aged 24, demonstrated his prowess by participating in all eight games for Laval last season, earning the title of second-team all-Canadian. Standing at 6’3 and weighing 293 pounds, the Rimouski, Quebec native played a total of 20 games over three seasons with the Rouge et Or, earning recognition as a U Sports first-team all-Canadian in 2022 while contributing to the school’s Vanier Cup victory that same year. His impressive performance at the CFL combine, including posting the fastest 40-yard time for an offensive lineman and the third most bench press reps overall (25), underscores his potential. Prior to his tenure at Laval, Dumoulin-Dugay served in the Canadian Army.
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In the second round, with the 16th overall pick, the Tiger-Cats secured defensive lineman Luke Brubacher, aged 23, who showcased his skills during his tenure at Laurier. Brubacher played in 10 games last season, registering notable statistics including 18 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and six sacks. Standing at 6’5 and weighing 246 pounds, the Listowel, Ontario native played 27 games over three seasons for the Golden Hawks, displaying versatility and athleticism. Brubacher’s accomplishments extend beyond the football field, as he is set to attend mini-camp with the NFL’s New York Jets later this month, underscoring his potential for further success.
In the fourth round, with the 34th overall pick, the Tiger-Cats added defensive back Daniel Bell, aged 22, who showcased his abilities at Mount Allison University. Bell played in eight games last season, amassing impressive statistics including 63 tackles, five tackles for loss, and one sack. Standing at 6’1 and weighing 218 pounds, the Saint John, New Brunswick native displayed consistency and reliability throughout his collegiate career, contributing significantly to the Mounties’ defensive efforts.
Continuing their selections, in the fourth round with the 36th overall pick, the Tiger-Cats acquired running back Matthew Peterson, aged 23, from the University of Alberta. Peterson’s exceptional performance last season, where he registered 1,317 yards on 158 carries and four touchdowns, earned him the title of Canada West Player of the Year. Standing at 5’10 and weighing 210 pounds, the Brooks, Alberta native showcased his versatility, accumulating 2,248 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns over his four seasons with the Golden Bears.
In the fifth round, with the 43rd overall pick, the Tiger-Cats bolstered their lineup with linebacker Ryan Baker, aged 24, from the University of British Columbia. Baker demonstrated his defensive prowess last season, registering 80 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, one interception, and several other notable statistics. Standing at 6’2 and weighing 220 pounds, the North Vancouver, British Columbia native displayed consistency and leadership throughout his collegiate career, contributing significantly to the Thunderbirds’ defensive efforts.
Continuing their draft selections, in the sixth round with the 52nd overall pick, the Tiger-Cats acquired defensive back Jonathan Giustini, aged 23, from the University of Alberta. Giustini showcased his versatility and athleticism, contributing significantly to both the defensive and special teams units. Standing at 5’10 and weighing 202 pounds, the Calgary, Alberta native displayed consistency and reliability throughout his collegiate career, making significant contributions to the Golden Bears’ success.
In the seventh round, with the 61st overall pick, the Tiger-Cats added offensive lineman John Kourtis, aged 24, from the University of Saskatchewan. Kourtis demonstrated his versatility by playing multiple positions throughout his collegiate career, showcasing his adaptability and football IQ. Standing at 6’4 and weighing 307 pounds, the Toronto, Ontario native displayed consistency and reliability throughout his collegiate career, making significant contributions to the Huskies’ offensive line.
Concluding their draft selections, in the eighth round with the 70th overall pick, the Tiger-Cats acquired defensive lineman Mitchell Townsend, aged 22, from the University of British Columbia. Townsend demonstrated his prowess on the defensive side of the ball, contributing significantly to the Thunderbirds’ success. Standing at 6’3 and weighing 227 pounds, the North Vancouver, British Columbia native showcased his versatility and athleticism throughout his collegiate career, making significant contributions to both the defensive line and special teams units.
