How Did 2019’s Top Three Draft Picks Perform Last Season?

As is the case every year, the Canadian Football League’s highly anticipated draft brings about a number of exciting and surprising picks. Interestingly, this was evident for all to see in 2019. So, let’s take a look at how the top three picks from last year’s draft have performed at their new teams.

Pick One – Shane Richards

In round one of the 2019 draft, Jamaican-born Shane Richards became the first player to be drafted when he swapped college football with the Oklahoma State Cowboys for the 17-time Grey Cup winners, Toronto Argonauts. Despite being selected first, and following his shock at being chosen ahead of other players, the 24-year-old offensive lineman’s maiden season at professional level didn’t quite live up to expectations.

Upon moving to the Toronto Argonauts, the six-foot-eight athlete made only eight appearances throughout 2019. During this time, however, Richards only started one game. That said, the 24-year-old suffered injury problems throughout the campaign which hindered his ability to start, as he spent a total of ten matches on the injured list. Going forward, the offensive lineman undoubtedly has the athletic abilities to be a key player for the Toronto Argonauts, who, as of April 24th, are priced at 9/1 to win the CFL in 2020 at Space Casino.

Pick Two – Jesse Gibbon

Following Richards, Jesse Gibbon was selected second overall in the 2019 draft. Last year, the now 23-year-old moved to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, who were seeking to get their hands on their ninth Grey Cup. During his first full season in the CFL, Gibbon consistently featured for the Tiger-Cats, who topped the table in the East Division before eventually losing in the Grey Cup final against Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Throughout 2019, the six-foot-five player made 17 appearances for the Tiger-Cats, including playing in both of the team’s playoff games in the Grey Cup against Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

Much like 24-year-old Richards, the Hamilton-born athlete is also an offensive lineman. Crucially, Gibbon will be integral if the Tiger-Cats are to get their hands on the 108th Grey Cup in 2020 as they seek to end their 20-year wait to clinch the trophy. As showcased last season, the 23-year-old’s fitness is unlikely to hinder his progress coming into the new season, as he has, thus far, been able to steer clear of injuries.

Pick Three – Mathieu Betts

Of the first four drafts that occurred in 2019, Mathieu Betts was the only selection who operates as a defensive lineman. Prior to last year’s highly anticipated draft, the 25-year-old Canadian was contracted to the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent. However, Betts officially joined Edmonton Eskimos as the third pick following the draft. Despite featuring in only six games for the Eskimos, the six-foot-three athlete hit the ground running.

In his first two appearances, Betts made one defensive tackle, which came against Hamilton Tiger-Cats, and a further two sacks. By the end of the campaign, the defensive lineman recorded another tackle in the East Semi-Final. Having impressed in his rookie season, much is expected of Betts during 2020, as he and his teammates look to secure the Eskimos’ 15th Grey Cup.

Mixed Fortunes from the 2019 Draft

Ultimately, it’s evident from the above three names that the transition from college football to the professional leagues isn’t an easy one to make. That said, Betts, Gibbons, and Richards have time on their sides, and, over the coming seasons, will likely grow to become significant players for their respective teams given their unquestionable talents.