Canadian Trio Makes History in NFL Draft, Stiggers Inks with Jets

Theo Johnson and Giovanni Manu have become the second and third Canadian prospects to be drafted into the NFL this year after being picked on Saturday. Johnson was selected by the New York Giants in the fourth round, 107th overall. The Ontario-born tight end from Penn State University appeared in 45 games over the past four seasons. The 6-foot-6, 260-pounder caught 77 passes for 938 yards and 12 touchdowns. This past season, he set career highs with 34 receptions, 341 yards and seven TDs. Manu, a 6-foot-8, 350-pound tackle, was selected 19 spots later by the Detroit Lions. Originally from Tonga, the tackle grew up in Pitt Meadows and played his college football at the University of British Columbia. On Friday, Ontario-born offensive lineman Isaiah Adams was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the third round. Adams, Johnson and Manu are currently ranked first, second and eighth, respectively, by the Canadian Football League’s Central Scouting Bureau. The CFL draft will be held on Tuesday.

Canadian Trio Makes History in NFL Draft, Stiggers Joins New York Jets

Toronto, Ontario - Three Canadian prospects achieved NFL draft history on Saturday, with Theo Johnson and Giovanni Manu becoming the second and third Canucks drafted this year.

Johnson Drafted by New York Giants

Theo Johnson, a 6'6", 260-pound tight end from Ontario's Penn State University, was selected by the New York Giants in the fourth round, 107th overall. Johnson played 45 games over the past four seasons, amassing 77 receptions for 938 yards and 12 touchdowns. He set personal bests last season with 34 receptions, 341 yards, and seven touchdowns.

Manu Joins Detroit Lions

Giovanni Manu, a 6'8", 350-pound tackle from Tonga who grew up in Pitt Meadows and played for the University of British Columbia, was picked 19 spots later by the Detroit Lions.

Historic Canadian Draft Representation

The previous day, Isaiah Adams, an offensive lineman from Ontario, was drafted in the third round by the Arizona Cardinals. Adams, Johnson, and Manu are ranked first, second, and eighth, respectively, by the Canadian Football League's (CFL) Central Scouting Bureau. The CFL Draft is scheduled to take place on Tuesday.

Stiggers Signs with Jets

In another major development, Toronto Argonauts cornerback Qwan'tez Stiggers was selected by the New York Jets in the fifth round (176th overall). Stiggers recorded five interceptions with the Argos last season, earning CFL Rookie of the Year honors and an East Division All-Star selection.

A Booming Canadian Presence

The recent NFL Draft has showcased the remarkable talent and depth of Canadian football players. With three Canadians drafted this year, it marks a significant milestone for the country's football program. The success of Adams, Johnson, Manu, and Stiggers reflects the growing recognition of Canadian talent on the international stage and promises an exciting future for the sport in Canada.