With five preseason games already in the books, the countdown to the 2026 CFL season is almost over.

But before we get to the regular season, there’s still lots to dissect and talk about.

Here are five things we’ve learned throughout the preseason so far.

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OTTAWA’S QBS ARE QUITE ALRIGHT

Heading into the 2026 season, Dru Brown is the starting quarterback for the REDBLACKS. He’s been their No. 1 guy, despite missing significant time because of injuries over the last few seasons.

So in Ottawa’s preseason opener, Brown was not thrust into action. Instead, it was the backups, Jake Maier, Bryson Barnes and Max Duggan, who stood behind centre, leading the REDBLACKS’ offence.

Maier and Barnes saw the majority of the action. Maier played in the first two quarters, connecting on 10 of 14 passes for 155 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. Barnes saw action in quarters three and four, throwing for 109 yards........

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