The Edmonton Elks have been outsiders for far too long, now, missing the Grey Cup playoffs for five seasons straight.

In those five seasons, the Elks started out 3-3, 2-4, 0-6, 0-6, and, last year, 1-5.

Each year, changes came and hopes were raised, with the team looking improved as training camp opened.

RELATED » 5 Things to Know for 2026: Saskatchewan Roughriders » 5 Things to Know for 2026: Montreal Alouettes » 5 Things to Know for 2026: BC Lions » 5 Things to Know for 2026: Ottawa REDBLACKS » Subscribe to the CFL’s official YouTube channel » Subscribe to the CFL’s newsletter for exclusive offers and league updates

After another miserable start in 2025, Edmonton began to turn things around by mid-season, and with plenty of returning players gearing up for 2026, as well as some eye-catching free agency additions, hopes are once again raised.

Could this year be different?

Here are five things to know about the Edmonton Elks.

It’s Cody Fajardo’s team from Day 1, in 2026.

Last year, the Elks had the veteran quarterback on their roster as backup to the young, inconsistent Tre Ford but Fajardo took over as the starter in Week 8. The Elks responded with a more consistent offence and a record of 6-7 under Fajardo, with four of those losses coming against Saskatchewan, Calgary and Hamilton (twice) by a total of just 11 points.

This time, Fajardo comes into the campaign with a full off-season of prep work and of playbook digestion, and the knowledge that he is the undisputed QB1 from the........

© CFL