It seems like every season the Canadian talent level in the CFL reaches new heights, and so far 2026 has been no exception. National players have been making a major impact on every game.

The Most Outstanding Canadian award may be months away from being decided, but one of the most exciting parts of the early season is how many players are already making their case for the respected accolade. That said, it is a long season and the recognition will be on a full body of work throughout 2026.

With that in mind, here are my top 10 players to keep an eye on for the MOC come the end of the season.

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1. NATHAN ROURKE | QUARTERBACK | BC LIONS

So long as there is a highly talented starting quarterback with Canadian designation in the CFL, they will always be on this watch list.

Nathan Rourke and the Lions are off to a slow start, due in large part to factors outside of his control as the defence works to get stops and slow opposing passers. But Rourke’s numbers should stack up among the league’s top five by season’s end, and that will always be enough to keep him in MOC contention.

2. BRADY OLIVEIRA | RUNNING BACK | WINNIPEG BLUE BOMBERS

Entering Week 4 sitting fifth in CFL rushing, Brady Oliveira and the Bombers remain a work in progress after falling to Edmonton on Thursday........

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