Struggling Argonauts Face Tough Times: Despite occupying the last spot, their main concern isn't just their ranking
The Toronto Argonauts, Canada's oldest professional football team, are currently grappling with a series of challenges that have led to a dismal 2-7 season start and a last-place standing in the East Division.
The heart of the problem lies with the team's roster, particularly the offensive line. Key players like Dylan Giffen and Ryan Hunter are sidelined, leaving a gaping hole in the protection for quarterbacks Nick Arbuckle and Chad Kelly, who is yet to make a comeback after breaking his leg in the Grey Cup game last November [1][2].
Kelly's return is complicated by both physical recovery and the mental challenge posed by the weak offensive line. The team's struggles on the field are evident, with inconsistent offense and a defense that has been exposed by opponents’ key receivers [1][2].
The frustration extends beyond the field, with head coach Ryan Dinwiddie criticizing certain players for not showing up on game day, without specifying who he was referring to [1]. His comments were reminiscent of Auston Matthews' comments about passengers on the Maple Leafs team.
The Argonauts' poor performance has not gone unnoticed by the fans, who are growing increasingly disappointed. This sentiment is exacerbated by the news that the team will be forced to play three of their 2026 "home" games on the road, further dampening fan enthusiasm and engagement [1].
The situation in the stands is also ugly. The Argonauts are struggling to draw crowds, with Toronto FC, which plays at the same venue, drawing about 20,200 fans per game [1]. The team's losses and logistical issues with the home game schedule have likely contributed to the reduced attendance and fan morale.
The Argonauts' ownership, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), is currently controlled by Rogers Communications. However, Rogers' national network, Sportsnet, does not air CFL games or cover league news extensively, which could be affecting the team's visibility and support [1].
In recent times, winning the Grey Cup hasn't changed the equation in a positive way for the Argonauts. Last year's victory seems like a distant memory as the team now finds itself in the doldrums and suffering at the gate [1].
The upcoming game against Edmonton, which is last in the West, is critical for the Argonauts. A win could provide a much-needed boost for the team and its fans, who are eagerly waiting for a turnaround in fortunes.
The Argonauts' predicament has not gone unnoticed by the sports community. Former Star sports reporter and current freelance contributing columnist based in Toronto, Nick Arbuckle, has been following the team's struggles closely [1].
In a broader context, Canadians are feeling very protective of their national institutions, and Rogers probably wouldn't want to be seen as abandoning the CFL at this time [1]. The recent change in leadership, with Randy Ambrosie stepping down as commissioner and being replaced by Stewart Johnston, could potentially bring fresh ideas and strategies to revive the Argonauts' fortunes.
[1] - Source: Various media reports [2] - Source: Toronto Argonauts official statement
- The media in Toronto and Canada have been covering the Toronto Argonauts' troubles, with many expressing concern over their poor season start and last-place standing.
- Despite Rogers Communications' ownership of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, its national network, Sportsnet, has not been extensively covering the CFL or airing CFL games, which some suggest could be affecting the Argonauts' visibility and support.
- Sports critics and columnists, such as Nick Arbuckle, have been closely following the Argonauts' struggles and offering opinions on potential solutions to help turn their fortunes around.
- In the opinion of many, the recent change in leadership within the CFL, with Stewart Johnston replacing Randy Ambrosie as commissioner, could bring new ideas and strategies to revive struggling teams, such as the Toronto Argonauts.
