The Ottawa Redblacks have added Brett Rypien to their negotiation list, opening a path that could intersect with the first overall selection in the 2027 CFL draft.
Adding Brett Rypien to the Negotiation List
Rypien, 30, entered the NFL in 2019 as an undrafted free agent with the Denver Broncos. Over four seasons in Colorado, he posted a 2-1 record as a starter. His professional career subsequently took him through stints with the Rams, Seahawks, Jets, Vikings, Bengals, and Colts. Most recently, he was released by the Buccaneers on October 27. Across seven NFL seasons, he has completed 58.3 percent of his passes for 950 yards, throwing four touchdowns and nine interceptions. Prior to his professional career, he started for four years at Boise State, recording 13,578 passing yards and 90 touchdowns.
Canadian Citizenship Potential and the 2027 Draft
While Rypien is currently listed as an American player by Ottawa, he may qualify for Canadian citizenship. Born in Spokane, Washington, he is the nephew of Mark Rypien, a Calgary native who played 15 seasons in the NFL and earned Super Bowl XXVI MVP honors. Brett’s father, Tim, was drafted by the Montreal Expos and Toronto Blue Jays, subsequently playing minor league baseball in Medicine Hat, Alberta. Although it is unknown where he was born, he is younger than Mark by less than three years—roughly the age Mark was when the family reportedly left Canada.
An American player eligible for Canadian citizenship through their parents can be removed from a negotiation list to regularize their status, then enter the league via the draft. The Redblacks hold the first overall pick in the 2027 CFL draft.
Roster Stability Needs in Ottawa
Inclusion on a negotiation list does not guarantee a player’s interest in the CFL. However, with a 1-17 record this season, the Redblacks have a need for stability at the quarterback position.
Worth a look
