LIVESTREAM CFL Preseason: Edmonton Elks @ BC Lions, May 23, 23:00 CET (11 pm, 5 pm ET)

AFI | American Football | 05/23/2026

This Saturday, the BC Lions will host the Edmonton Elks in a preseason matchup that serves as an important evaluation opportunity for both teams as they prepare for the upcoming Canadian Football League season. The Lions are coming off a strong 2025 campaign, finishing with an 11-7 record, while the Elks are looking to turn things around after struggling in recent years.

BC Lions: Hungry for Success

The Lions enter the 2026 season motivated and focused on their goal of reaching the Grey Cup. After falling short in the Western Final against Saskatchewan, the team is eager to prove they can compete at the highest level. Quarterback Nathan Rourke is back and ready to lead the charge, having thrown for 5,290 yards and 31 touchdowns last season. However, in this preseason game, fans should expect limited playing time for Rourke and other starters as the coaching staff evaluates younger talent and potential roster additions.

Key offensive players like Keon Hatcher Sr. and Hugo Tekedam will also see reduced action, allowing the coaching staff to assess the depth of the roster. The Lions will want to establish their offensive identity early, but the focus will be on giving opportunities to those fighting for a spot on the final roster.

Watch live. Edmonton Elks @ BC Lions, May 23, 23:00 CET (11 pm, 5 pm ET)

Edmonton Elks: Aiming for Improvement

The Elks have missed the playoffs for five consecutive seasons, but there’s hope for a turnaround in 2026. With veteran quarterback Cody Fajardo now firmly in control, the offense is looking to find its rhythm. Fajardo took over as the starter last season and led the team to a more consistent performance. However, like the Lions, the Elks will limit Fajardo’s playing time in this preseason matchup to evaluate younger players, including backup Taylor Powell.

The addition of receiver Austin Mack, who previously thrived with Fajardo in Montreal, could provide a much-needed boost to the passing game, but fans should expect to see a mix of starters and newcomers as the team assesses its options. The Elks will also be looking to improve their defense, which struggled last season, and the addition of defensive end Malik Carney should help increase their sack totals, though he may not see extensive action in this game.

What to Watch For

As this is a preseason game, the emphasis will be on player evaluation rather than game strategy. Fans can expect to see a mix of starters and younger players vying for roster spots, with both teams focusing on solidifying their depth charts.

While the starters may see limited action, fans can still expect an entertaining clash as both teams gear up for the challenges ahead.