CFL draft: Edmonton Elks take linebacker with No. 1 pick [Video]

Joel Dublanko didn’t have to wait long to learn where he’ll be starting his CFL career.

The Edmonton Elks selected the rugged linebacker first overall in the CFL draft Tuesday night. The six-foot-three, 240-pound Dublanko was regarded as the most pro-ready draft prospect.

After his college career at Cincinnati, he spent time in the NFL with the New Orleans Saints and Seattle Seahawks before playing in 2023 with the USFL’s Philadelphia Stars. An American, Dublanko was eligible for the CFL draft due to the fact he has a Canadian parent.

Dublanko was in Edmonton on Tuesday night but said he still felt nervous waiting to hear his name called.

“I had a good feeling about it,” he told reporters Tuesday night on a CFL video conference. “It’s an exciting time for me and my family.

“I’m really blessed and excited to be here.”

Edmonton had the first selection after finishing last in the West Division with a 4-14 …