Edmonton Elks Boost Special Teams Signing Returner Javon Leake

Originally posted on CFL on SI | By Anthony Miller | Last updated 2/13/24

The Edmonton Elks look to get some help with their special teams on the first day of CFL free agency. Former Toronto Argonauts returner Javon Leake signed a contract with the Elks on Tuesday.

When it came to special teams in 2023, Leake was among the most exciting players. He led the CFL in punt return yards (1,216) and punt return touchdowns (four). Leake was also sixth in the CFL in kickoff return yards with 793 yards, with an average of 20.9 yards. He was named to the CFL All-Star team and won the league’s Most Outstanding Special Teams Player award.

This was the second CFL season of Leake's career, with both being with the Argos. He has also played running back in the CFL, producing 52 rushing yards and 74 receiving yards.

Enter Sandman

We've signed CFL All-Star returner Javon Leake.

DETAILS | https://t.co/LZ2CXCM9JO #OurTeamOurCity #GoElks #CFLFA @ny_king20 @PlayAlbertaCA pic.twitter.com/qAwxAJ9xP7
— Edmonton Elks (@GoElks) February 13, 2024

Before his CFL career took off, he played in the NFL for two seasons with the New York Giants, Washington Commanders and Detroit Lions. He was a first-team All-Big Ten selection in 2019 at Maryland as a returner.

It’s once again another big loss for the Argonauts, who have let several players walk in free agency. Edmonton gets a massive upgrade on special teams after their top returner CJ Sims finished last year seventh in punt return yards with no touchdowns.

Leake was the first official free agent to sign with Edmonton after the league opened the free agency period Tuesday.

This article first appeared on CFL on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: