Winnipeg Blue Bombers returner Trey Vaval is coming off a record-breaking rookie season, leading the CFL in punt return yards and return touchdowns. But as training camp opens, the 25-year-old is focused on a different role: full-time defensive back.
Last August, Vaval became the first Bomber to return both a punt and a kickoff for a touchdown in the same game. He was named the league's Most Outstanding Rookie and Most Outstanding Special Teams Player.
Now, with key departures in the secondary, Vaval is in contention for a starting cornerback job. He started four games at field-side corner last year and had 21 defensive tackles and an interception.
Head coach Mike O'Shea praised Vaval's physicality and thirst for knowledge but noted the mental discipline required at corner. Running back Brady Oliveira, the 2024 MOP, trained with Vaval during the off-season and called him the "blueprint" for American rookies in the CFL.
Vaval also worked out for six NFL teams this winter, including the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints. His ultimate goal? Win the Grey Cup.