Section 4: Players & Officials
Team Composition — 12 Players
This is one of the most fundamental differences from American football:
- On the field: 12 players per side — one more than NFL/NCAA's 11
- Extra player: Typically an additional defensive back or slotback/receiver. The wider field demands more coverage.
- Roster: 46-player active roster, plus a practice roster
- Canadian ratio: The CFL mandates a minimum number of Canadian (non-import) players on the roster and in the starting lineup, ensuring Canadian talent development
Offensive Positions
- Quarterback: Same role as NFL
- Running backs: Halfback (tailback) and fullback, same as NFL
- Slotbacks: Unique to Canadian football — positioned between the offensive line and the wide receivers, often used in motion. Functions similarly to a slot receiver or H-back in NFL terminology.
- Wide receivers: Typically 2, positioned near the sidelines
- Offensive line: 5 linemen (center, 2 guards, 2 tackles) — same as NFL
Game Officials
The CFL uses a crew of 7 officials, similar to the NFL. The CFL also employs a Command Centre in Toronto for video review of all plays, similar to the NFL's replay system.
Canadian Player Ratio
A unique CFL regulation:
- Each team must have a minimum of 21 Canadian (national) players on its 46-player roster
- A minimum of 7 Canadian players must be in the starting lineup (offense or defense)
- Players are classified as "national" (Canadian citizen or permanent resident) or "international" (all others)
- This rule has no equivalent in the NFL or any other major North American professional league