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Jake Ceresna Impresses Blue Bombers Fans Virtually, Records Career-High Sacks in 2026 Opener
On February 10, 2026, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers announced a marquee free‑agent signing: former New York Jets defensive end Jake Ceresna. The same day the club added offensive tackle Jarell Broxton, Canadian receiver Tommy Nield, and veteran cornerback Jonathan Moxey, giving the West‑division side a significant roster boost ahead of the 2026 CFL season.
Ceresna’s first public appearance for the Bombers came not on the field but behind a screen. A 15‑minute virtual media day streamed from the team’s media room let fans in on his thoughts. Though he was not physically in Winnipeg, the video reception was strong and his comments resonated with the fan base. In a brief statement, Ceresna said, “Go where you’re wanted,” a line that many interpreted as a nod to his decision to leave the NFL after a season of limited playing time and a brief stint with the Ottawa Redblacks.
The club confirmed that Ceresna signed a one‑year contract that includes a performance‑bonus structure. The 2026 season opened on June 4, with the Bombers hosting the Calgary Stampeders at the new Canadian Football League stadium in Calgary. In the 28‑21 victory, Ceresna recorded a career‑high three sacks, the most productive defensive play by a Bombers rookie in week one of the 18‑game schedule, according to a CTV News article dated June 12.
Ceresna’s arrival follows a career that has spanned several leagues. He played college football at Cortland, was signed by the New York Jets in 2016, and later spent time with the Ottawa Redblacks, Toronto Argonauts, Edmonton Elks and New York Giants. His experience in both American and Canadian football is expected to add depth to the Bombers’ defensive line.
The Bombers, a community‑owned franchise founded in 1930, have won the Grey Cup 12 times, most recently in 2021. Their 2026 schedule includes 18 regular‑season games and, if the team qualifies, a playoff run that could culminate in the 113th Grey Cup scheduled for November 15 in Calgary.
The addition of Broxton, Nield, Moxey and Ceresna was part of a broader strategy by the Bombers’ management to strengthen both offensive and defensive units. Broxton, a former first‑round pick, is expected to anchor the offensive line. Nield, a Canadian receiver, will provide a domestic option in the passing game. Moxey, a seasoned defensive back, is anticipated to bring veteran leadership to the secondary.
Ceresna’s performance in the opener has already drawn comparisons to his best season with the Jets, when he recorded five sacks in 2017. Head coach Paul Friesen praised the player’s effort in a post‑game interview, noting that Ceresna’s “intensity and technique were on full display.” Friesen also highlighted the importance of the defensive line’s role in creating pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Looking ahead, the Bombers will face a challenging West‑division schedule that includes games against the BC Lions, Saskatchewan Roughriders, Edmonton Elks and Calgary Stampeders again. The team’s defensive coordinator has indicated that the focus will be on maintaining pressure and limiting big plays, a strategy that Ceresna’s sack totals suggest is already in motion.
As the season progresses, the Bombers’ front office will monitor Ceresna’s health and performance. The player’s contract includes a clause that allows the team to extend his stay if he meets certain statistical benchmarks. The club’s management has expressed confidence that the player will continue to contribute to the team’s defensive scheme.
The 2026 CFL season is the league’s 72nd season of modern professional Canadian football. The regular season is scheduled to end on October 24, after which the top six teams will compete in the playoffs. The Bombers’ strong start, highlighted by Ceresna’s three sacks, sets a positive tone for the remainder of the campaign.
In summary, Jake Ceresna’s arrival in Winnipeg has been met with enthusiasm from fans, even though his initial media appearance was virtual. His powerful showing in the opening game against Calgary demonstrates the immediate impact he can have on the Bombers’ defense. The club’s roster additions this offseason position the team for a competitive season, with the potential to contend for the Grey Cup in Calgary on November 15.
Ceresna’s first public appearance for the Bombers came not on the field but behind a screen. A 15‑minute virtual media day streamed from the team’s media room let fans in on his thoughts. Though he was not physically in Winnipeg, the video reception was strong and his comments resonated with the fan base. In a brief statement, Ceresna said, “Go where you’re wanted,” a line that many interpreted as a nod to his decision to leave the NFL after a season of limited playing time and a brief stint with the Ottawa Redblacks.
The club confirmed that Ceresna signed a one‑year contract that includes a performance‑bonus structure. The 2026 season opened on June 4, with the Bombers hosting the Calgary Stampeders at the new Canadian Football League stadium in Calgary. In the 28‑21 victory, Ceresna recorded a career‑high three sacks, the most productive defensive play by a Bombers rookie in week one of the 18‑game schedule, according to a CTV News article dated June 12.
Ceresna’s arrival follows a career that has spanned several leagues. He played college football at Cortland, was signed by the New York Jets in 2016, and later spent time with the Ottawa Redblacks, Toronto Argonauts, Edmonton Elks and New York Giants. His experience in both American and Canadian football is expected to add depth to the Bombers’ defensive line.
The Bombers, a community‑owned franchise founded in 1930, have won the Grey Cup 12 times, most recently in 2021. Their 2026 schedule includes 18 regular‑season games and, if the team qualifies, a playoff run that could culminate in the 113th Grey Cup scheduled for November 15 in Calgary.
The addition of Broxton, Nield, Moxey and Ceresna was part of a broader strategy by the Bombers’ management to strengthen both offensive and defensive units. Broxton, a former first‑round pick, is expected to anchor the offensive line. Nield, a Canadian receiver, will provide a domestic option in the passing game. Moxey, a seasoned defensive back, is anticipated to bring veteran leadership to the secondary.
Ceresna’s performance in the opener has already drawn comparisons to his best season with the Jets, when he recorded five sacks in 2017. Head coach Paul Friesen praised the player’s effort in a post‑game interview, noting that Ceresna’s “intensity and technique were on full display.” Friesen also highlighted the importance of the defensive line’s role in creating pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Looking ahead, the Bombers will face a challenging West‑division schedule that includes games against the BC Lions, Saskatchewan Roughriders, Edmonton Elks and Calgary Stampeders again. The team’s defensive coordinator has indicated that the focus will be on maintaining pressure and limiting big plays, a strategy that Ceresna’s sack totals suggest is already in motion.
As the season progresses, the Bombers’ front office will monitor Ceresna’s health and performance. The player’s contract includes a clause that allows the team to extend his stay if he meets certain statistical benchmarks. The club’s management has expressed confidence that the player will continue to contribute to the team’s defensive scheme.
The 2026 CFL season is the league’s 72nd season of modern professional Canadian football. The regular season is scheduled to end on October 24, after which the top six teams will compete in the playoffs. The Bombers’ strong start, highlighted by Ceresna’s three sacks, sets a positive tone for the remainder of the campaign.
In summary, Jake Ceresna’s arrival in Winnipeg has been met with enthusiasm from fans, even though his initial media appearance was virtual. His powerful showing in the opening game against Calgary demonstrates the immediate impact he can have on the Bombers’ defense. The club’s roster additions this offseason position the team for a competitive season, with the potential to contend for the Grey Cup in Calgary on November 15.
