Dejon Brissett of the Toronto Argonauts hoisted the Grey Cup after their victory over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the 111th CFL championship game held in Vancouver on Sunday, November 17, 2024. (Photo credit: Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press)
VANCOUVER – Before the Grey Cup even began, Toronto Argonauts head coach Ryan Dinwiddie shared a heartfelt message with wide receiver Dejon Brissett, expressing how proud he was of him. By the night’s end, Brissett had given his coach even more reasons to feel proud.
Brissett delivered an impressive performance, contributing 45 receiving yards and scoring a critical touchdown that helped propel the Argonauts to a 41-24 victory over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, securing the CFL championship. The 28-year-old from Mississauga, Ontario, was honoured as the game’s most valuable Canadian.
"I reminded him during warmups that he was my first draft pick and how proud I am of his growth," Dinwiddie noted. "He truly validated my faith in him tonight."
Brissett’s journey this season was not without hurdles. Early on, a knee injury kept him sidelined for over three months, limiting his production during the regular season to just 171 yards and three touchdowns—far from his 2023 career-best of 594 yards and five touchdowns. However, his resilience was evident in his standout performance during the championship.
The game-changing moment for Brissett came in the fourth quarter when he caught a 17-yard pass from quarterback Nick Arbuckle in the end zone. Brissett described how the play was well-rehearsed in practice, with Arbuckle meticulously guiding him through its execution. “Nick explained the timing he wanted, and I made sure to get it right. It paid off,” Brissett shared.
Arbuckle, stepping in for injured starter Chad Kelly, who suffered a broken ankle in the East Division final, was named the Grey Cup’s most valuable player. The 31-year-old quarterback threw for 252 yards, securing two touchdowns despite also tossing two interceptions. Brissett praised Arbuckle’s commitment, describing him as "a third coach on the field," adding that the victory was as much for Arbuckle as for the team.
Reflecting on the recognition, Brissett said the individual honours were a testament to the collective strength of the team. Nonetheless, being named the most valuable Canadian held special meaning for him. "This game is part of our Canadian identity. It means everything to me," he stated.
Adding to the significance of the night, Brissett’s family, including his parents and his brother Oshae, a former Toronto Raptors player and current Boston Celtics athlete, were present to celebrate with him. This year, Oshae also experienced championship glory, having won the NBA title in June.
"It’s rare for all of us to be together in one place. To share this moment and celebrate this win with them means everything," Brissett said, his voice filled with emotion. "It truly means the world."
