Stamps Have Busy First Round

Today, the CFL Canadian Draft took place as the Calgary Stampeders selected three players in the first round.

Highlights of each of these players will be available on www.Stampeders.com in the next 24 hours. The last time the Stampeders selected three in the first round was in the 2003 CFL Canadian Draft.  

With the Stampeders first pick, 3^rd overall, the Stampeders selected Offensive Tackle Mike Gyetvai from Michigan State.

“Gyetvai was the top player on our board,” said General Manager Jim Barker. “He does come with some risk as he’s playing at a very high level and will likely have some NFL opportunities. Having three picks in the first round allowed us the flexibility to take the best available player.”

Gyetvai was ranked as the number one prospect in Canada coming into this year’s draft. Following, early success at Michigan State, he was named a starter following the graduation of former starter Sean Poole.  He had previously been named Academic All-Big Ten and was presented the Jim Adams Award (unsung hero) after being selected Scout Team Offensive Player of the Year in 2003.

Using a pick acquired from Toronto, the Stampeders chose fifth overall, selecting Linebacker Justin Phillips from Wilfred Laurier University.

“Phillips is an athlete who’s athleticism, strength and work ethic give him an opportunity to be a quality player in the CFL,” said General Manager Jim Barker.

Following a strong season in 2006, Phillips was named an OUA first-team All-Star and given a spot on the CIS Second Team All-Canadian roster.  In his first two seasons with the Golden Hawks Phillips had varying success and was selected an OUA 2^nd Team All-Star in 2004.

With the Stampeders last pick of the 1^st round the Red and White selected Receiver Jabari Arthur from Akron University.

“Arthur was among the top players on our board,” said General Manager Jim Barker. “Although he has another year of college eligibility and possible NFL opportunities, his talent is too good not to take a chance on.”

In 2006, Arthur totaled 45 receptions for 730 yards and 4 touchdowns throughout the 12 games of his final season in the NCAA.  Previously Arthur had two strong seasons with Akron acting in dual roles as both a quarterback and receiver.