Only two players from Winnipeg made it to the 2025 CFL All-Stars. Evan Holm and Trey Vaval are the few selected. This is the lowest number for Winnipeg in 10 years.
Holm, a defensive back, and Vaval, a rookie return specialist, got their first All-Star nods. They were chosen by The Football Reporters of Canada and CFL coaches. This shows respect from all over the league.
No offensive players from Winnipeg were picked. This shows where the team fell short. But Holm and Vaval’s achievements kept Winnipeg in the spotlight.
These selections are a wake-up call for Winnipeg fans. Holm and Vaval’s skills show how important individual players are. The Blue Bombers aim to use this recognition to boost their performance against other teams.
Breaking: Two Blue Bombers named to 2025 All-CFL Team
The winnipeg blue bombers made a big splash with 2 blue on the 2025 All–CFL Team. This news spread like wildfire across Canada. Both players received their first All-CFL honours, highlighting a season of strong defence and returns.
Stories on cfl.ca and elsewhere highlighted these selections as a highlight of a challenging year. Fans were keenly interested in all awards in the cfl + conversation.
Who made the All-CFL roster: Trey Vaval and Evan Holm
Trey Vaval was chosen as the returner after his impressive field swings and timely scores. Evan Holm was picked for defensive back for his consistent coverage and takeaways. These players were key in keeping games close and turning the tide late for the winnipeg blue bombers.
How the voting works: FRC members and CFL head coaches
Football Reporters of Canada and CFL head coaches make the selections. This process is detailed on cfl.ca and in the club’s release. The voting values both consistent performance and stats, often favouring special teams and secondary play.
Why only two all-stars after a disappointing season
The offence didn’t get any recognition, and the team’s results affected the voting. Voters chose players who excelled in defence and returns, where impact was clear. The total of two all-stars reflects the team’s history, showing why 2 blue made it and others didn’t.
Spotlight on Trey Vaval: Rookie return phenom and all-star
Trey Vaval made field position a weekly advantage. For the blue bomers fans, his speed and vision changed the game. His calmness shone across all cfl teams.
In a year looking for excitement, Trey was a bright spot. He showed he could be a star in the making.
League-leading returns: punts, missed field goals, and total TDs
He led with 75 punt returns and 957 yards. He added 918 yards on 37 kickoffs. Most impressively, he had 391 yards on missed field goals, breaking a record.
His stats scored points. He had four return touchdowns, the most in the CFL. This showed his skill and the excitement of his fans.
Record-breaking moments: 128-yard missed FG return vs. Ottawa
In September, he made a 128-yard missed field goal return. This set a Winnipeg record. He also had 199 yards on a missed field goal return, showing his speed and control.
Every time he found a gap, it seemed like a given. A burst, a cut, then he was gone. His plays were talked about in cfl teams’ scouting rooms.
A two-way contributor: starts at cornerback and first career interception
He also played cornerback, starting four times. He had 21 tackles, including four on special teams. He got his first interception against Montreal, showing his reading skills.
His contributions on both sides of the ball earned him awards. He was named Most Outstanding Rookie and Most Outstanding Special Teams Player in the West Division. Trey Vaval’s career is on the rise, and the blue bomers fans are excited.
Evan Holm’s breakout: Defensive back earns first All-CFL nod
Evan Holm became the heart of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers defence this season. His performance made big waves in the CFL. Fans and stats both agreed he was a standout.
Team-leading interceptions and shutdown coverage
Holm led the team with four interceptions and many pass breakups. Quarterbacks often avoided him, which helped his teammates. This strategy made the field tighter for everyone.
Durability and consistency: 59 consecutive starts
Starting from September 17, 2022, Holm has played in 59 games straight. This is a rare feat for a defensive back. His consistency helped the team, even with injuries and changes.
Holm as the club’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player
The team named him Most Outstanding Defensive Player for 2025. He had 55 tackles, six knockdowns, and more. His West Division all star nod was well-deserved, making him a key figure in CFL news.
Winnipeg Blue Bombers
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are a beloved team in Winnipeg and the cfl. They are known for their depth, coaching, and player growth. Fans admire their core, which has led to successful playoff runs.
In 2021, the team had 11 players shine. Zach Collaros led the offence, while linemen like Stanley Bryant and Pat Neufeld protected him. Kenny Lawler stretched the field.
On defence, Willie Jefferson and Jackson Jeffcoat were key. Adam Bighill, Brandon Alexander, Dee Alford, and Deatrick Nichols also played a big role.
In 2025, Evan Holm and Trey Vaval were recognized. They highlighted the team’s defence and return game. Their efforts were critical in close games against tough opponents.
The winnepeg blue bombers identity is built on physical play, efficient special teams, and smart tactics. This approach keeps them competitive in the cfl, even with fewer awards.
| Season | All-CFL Selections | Notable Bombers | Primary Impact Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 11 | Zach Collaros, Stanley Bryant, Pat Neufeld, Jermarcus Hardrick, Kenny Lawler, Willie Jefferson, Jackson Jeffcoat, Adam Bighill, Brandon Alexander, Dee Alford, Deatrick Nichols | Elite protection, vertical threats, dominant front seven, disciplined secondary |
| 2025 | 2 | Evan Holm, Trey Vaval | Shutdown coverage, explosive return game |
| Trend | High to focused | From broad roster acclaim to select standouts | Resilience in defence and special teams keeps Winnipeg competitive within cfl teams |
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are always evolving while keeping their core values. In Winnipeg, this mix of growth and success has cemented their cfl legacy.
Context: Fewer Bombers all-stars and how it compares historically
In a season filled with cfl news, Winnipeg’s two selections are notable. They show a change in Winnipeg Blue Bombers history. The smaller number of all stars suggests a shift from recent highs. This year, the offence didn’t have any all stars.
Lowest total in 15 years and rare years without offensive all-stars
This is the lowest count for Winnipeg in 15 years. In 2015, Jamaal Westerman was the only all star. From 2012 to 2015, the team had one All-CFL pick each year. This highlights how rare it is for the offence to miss out on all the stars.
High-water mark: 11 All-CFL selections in 2021
In 2021, Winnipeg reached a high with 11 honourees. Names like Zach Collaros and Stanley Bryant were among them. This year is a highlight in Winnipeg Blue Bombers history.
Only a handful of seasons without any Bombers all-stars
Complete shutouts are rare: 1964, 1975, 1995, and 1998. These years are part of a small list without offensive players as all stars. The 2025 count shows a leaner cycle, not a collapse. It’s a reminder of the ups and downs in Canadian sports history.
Note: The context above frames how an all star count can rise and fall across decades. It offers perspective for readers who track cfl news and care about Winnipeg Blue Bombers history.
Vaval by the numbers: CFL-leading return production
Trey Vaval made field position a key asset for Winnipeg. His speed, vision, and balance were evident in every return. This made his stats a big topic in Canada, from IG Field to TV.
In a season full of stories, his performance was a standout. It caught the eye of fans and analysts alike, under the spotlight of the CFL +.
4 return TDs: kickoff, punt, and missed field goal scores
He scored four return touchdowns: two on kickoffs, one on a punt, and one on a missed field goal. Each touchdown changed the game’s momentum. It also made Winnipeg’s special teams unit stronger.
957 punt return yards and CFL-best missed FG return yardage
He led the CFL with 957 punt return yards on 75 attempts. He also had 391 missed field goal return yards, a Blue Bombers record. His 128-yard return against Ottawa set a club record, and 199 yards that day set a CFL record.
He also had 918 kickoff return yards, ranking fifth in the league. This made him a key player in Winnipeg’s success.
Award buzz: Most Outstanding Rookie and Special Teams finalist
Vaval was named Winnipeg’s Most Outstanding Rookie and Special Teams Player. He was also a West Division All-Star. He’s a Grey Cup week finalist for both league awards, showing his impact in Canada.
Holm by the numbers: Takeaways, tackles, and impact plays
Evan Holm’s stats show he’s a key player in the blue bombers defence. His performance improved each week, catching the eye of fans and analysts. He’s becoming a standout player in the secondary.
55 defensive tackles and six pass knockdowns
Holm made 55 defensive tackles, showing his quickness and accuracy. He also had six pass knockdowns and a tackle for loss. These stats highlight his role in keeping the defence strong.
Four interceptions and two forced fumbles
He led Winnipeg with four interceptions, proving his ability to read the game. His two forced fumbles added to his impact. His performance has earned him recognition among CFL teams and fans.
Special teams value: additional tackles and field position
Holm contributed six special teams tackles, helping control field position. His work on special teams supports the team’s coverage. His stats are significant in the tight West race.
| Category | Metric | On-field impact |
|---|---|---|
| Defensive tackles | 55 | Drives slowed early; fewer yards after contact |
| Pass knockdowns | 6 | Denied rhythm throws; forced longer downs |
| Interceptions | 4 | Top mark on team; flipped possession in key moments |
| Forced fumbles | 2 | Created extra takeaways; momentum swings |
| Tackle for loss | 1 | Backfield stop that set up predictable passing downs |
| Special teams tackles | 6 | Improved net field position and coverage integrity |
What this means for Winnipeg in the West Division landscape
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers now focus on defence and special teams. Evan Holm and Trey Vaval are key in tight games. This change shows where the team is strong and where it needs to grow.
Against top teams, small advantages can win games. Vaval’s returns and Holm’s coverage control the game’s pace. This is critical in cold weather and late in games.
The offence needs to improve without an All-CFL pick. They must work on protection, second-down efficiency, and red-zone scoring. Success in these areas will boost the team’s overall performance.
Playing the Argonauts is a big test. Toronto’s fast pace and special teams push Winnipeg to keep drives going. This game shows how they compare to teams that rely on big plays and turnovers.
Key takeaway for the West race: field position plus ball security equals control. The Blue Bombers’ outlook remains strong. Finding balance can lead to more wins, even against teams with new strategies.
| Competitive Lever | Current Strength | West Division Impact | Adjustment Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Return Game (Trey Vaval) | Elite field-position gains | Short fields versus physical cfl teams | Maintain blocking integrity on edges |
| Coverage/Takeaways (Evan Holm) | Consistent ball disruption | Limits explosives, aids clock control | Increase disguised looks on second-and-long |
| Offensive Efficiency | Inconsistent finishing drives | High leverage in Winnipeg weather games | Sharpen red-zone sequencing and pass pro |
| Special Teams Depth | Reliable core units | Edges in November football | Reinforce gunners and interior lanes |
| Inter-Division Benchmark | blue bombers vs argonauts litmus | Translates lessons to West rivals | Match tempo, avoid hidden-yard losses |
Former Bombers across the league: familiar faces on the All-CFL Team
Across the league, bonbers alumni are making big impacts. Several names are on the all star list, showing their skills from offence to special teams. Fans in Winnipeg will remember these stories, even as they now play for rival cfl teams.
Kenny Lawler’s resurgence, Jermarcus Hardrick’s recognition
Kenny Lawler is back to his best, making sharp cuts and catching high passes. His return to form has given his new team a reliable deep threat.
Jermarcus Hardrick is recognized again for his strength, clean hands, and leadership. His play helps protect the quarterback and boosts the running game, key in close games.
Lirim Hajrullahu’s selection and ties to Winnipeg
Lirim Hajrullahu has been clutch, making important field goals and precise kickoffs. His consistency shows the skills he developed in Winnipeg, helping in tight games.
His ability to perform under pressure is valuable to cfl teams. With his calm and quick execution, he can turn close games into wins.
How ex-Bombers shape rival CFL teams
These bonbers alumni elevate their teams. They bring experience, a shared language, and playoff savvy. This helps new teammates adjust quickly.
Their high standards affect practice and games. For contenders, this edge can influence seeding. For rebuilds, it sets a high bar to follow.
| Player | Current Club | Role | Signature Strength | All-Star Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenny Lawler | Hamilton | Receiver | Explosive vertical routes and contested catches | Drives chunk plays and red-zone efficiency |
| Jermarcus Hardrick | Saskatchewan | Offensive Tackle | Anchor pass sets and run-lane creation | Stabilizes protection and tempo on offence |
| Lirim Hajrullahu | Toronto | Kicker | Clutch accuracy and directional kickoffs | Flips field position and secures late points |
All-star selection process: How CFL.ca, FRC voters, and coaches decide
The All-CFL roster is chosen in two steps. First, players are picked for their division teams. Then, the national ballot combines votes from the Football Reporters of Canada and CFL coaches. This decides the league-wide honours.
Team releases and cfl.ca share the final list. This keeps the flow of cfl news consistent for all fans.
In 2025, Evan Holm and Trey Vaval moved from West Division to All-CFL status. They were chosen after the FRC review and coach tallies were combined. The method looks at season-long performance, opponent strength, and game impact.
How ballots are finalized is based on timing and verification. After division results post on cfl.ca, ballots are checked. Totals are audited, and ties are resolved using guidelines.
Clubs confirm the results, and the league publishes the list. This way, all fans see the same outcome.
Digital chatter can add noise, from a WhatsApp boomber blast to quick takes on weekly lists. But the official count remains with the FRC and head coaches. That’s why the final All-CFL reveal aligns with league records and club reports.
Conclusion
The 2025 All-CFL reveal shows the Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ strong points. Trey Vaval shines on special teams with four return touchdowns and 957 punt return yards. He also holds a CFL record for most missed field goal return yards in a game.
Evan Holm stands out on defence with 55 tackles and four interceptions. He has also made six knockdowns and two forced fumbles. His streak of 59 straight starts is impressive.
Winnipeg’s all star selection is the fewest in years, but it’s fitting. It reflects a season where defence and returns were key. The team’s focus on these areas is clear.
The selection process involved votes from Football Reporters of Canada and CFL head coaches. It highlights the Bombers’ influence beyond their own team. Players like Kenny Lawler and Jermarcus Hardrick have made their mark elsewhere.
The Bombers are looking to the future. They aim to strengthen their coverage and return game. The off-season will focus on bringing back offensive star power.
In short, the Bombers plan to build around Trey Vaval’s speed and Evan Holm’s defensive prowess. They aim to turn these all star performances into wins next season.