UND Connection Deepens: C.J. Siegel Joins Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Adding to the growing bond between the University of North Dakota (UND) and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, C.J. Siegel, former UND defensive back, has officially joined the CFL organization, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers confirmed on Wednesday.
Siegel’s transition to professional football maintains the UND flavor within the Blue Bombers, as he joins former teammates Brady Oliveira and Evan Holm on the roster.
During his time at UND, Siegel’s contributions were significant, serving as a team captain in 2022 and 2023. His on-field prowess included starting 52 games at cornerback, where he etched his name in Division I history, ranking third in career pass breakups with 29, fourth in interceptions with six, and ninth in solo tackles with 115.
In his standout performance last season, Siegel earned second-team all-Missouri Valley Football Conference honors, showcasing his defensive skills with 28 tackles and a pivotal 59-yard interception return in UND’s victory over North Dakota State.
Additionally, Siegel played a vital role in UND’s special teams, contributing to the team’s nation-leading average of 21.0 yards per kickoff return.
Joining Siegel, Brady Oliveira solidifies his presence with a two-year contract extension, having been named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Canadian after a remarkable 2023 season, amassing 1,534 rushing yards and notable contributions in receiving.
Meanwhile, Evan Holm, hailing from Edina, Minnesota, continues to shine for the Blue Bombers, earning recognition as a CFL All-Star following his standout performance in 2023, where he secured two interceptions.
As the Blue Bombers gear up for the preseason opener against the Saskatchewan Roughriders on May 20, the UND connection stands as a testament to the talent fostered by the university.
Beyond the Blue Bombers, the UND legacy extends across the Canadian Football League, with Mason Bennett representing the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Tyron Vrede on the roster for the Ottawa Red Bulls.
With the CFL season looming, the UND presence promises to make waves on the Canadian football stage, showcasing the caliber of talent nurtured by the university.