Courtesy of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers

The CFL has once again dipped into the New England region to find talent. Boston College offensive tackle Kevin Cline and UMass punter Keegan Andrews were both selected by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers this week in the CFL Draft.

Kevin Cline’s journey to the CFL is as much a story of heritage as it is of physical dominance. Standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 320 pounds, the former Eagles standout qualified for Canadian citizenship through his mother, making him a prized “National” prospect. After a six-year collegiate career in Chestnut Hill where he appeared in 44 games and anchored the right side of the line, Cline was selected 20th overall in the second round of the Canadian Draft. Although he recently signed an undrafted free agent contract with the Miami Dolphins, the Blue Bombers viewed his high-ceiling potential as worth the draft capital.

Should he return to the CFL, he follows in the footsteps of his father, Mike Cline, who previously starred on the defensive line for the Ottawa Rough Riders in the late 1980s.

Joining Cline in Winnipeg is Keegan Andrews, who was snagged in the second round of the CFL Global Draft with the 13th overall pick. The UMass punter, a native of Australia, has been a consistent weapon for the Minutemen’s special teams unit over the last several seasons. Known for his ability to flip the field and his 6-foot-3 frame, Andrews represents the increasing influence of international talent on the Canadian game.

Andrews selection underscores a successful week for the Blue Bombers front office, which targeted high-level specialists and lineman with experience in the United States.

While both players are currently navigating the transition to the NFL, their selections mark a significant achievement for their respective programs.

For Boston College and UMass, seeing a tackle and a punter go in the same draft cycle highlights the diverse talent pool being cultivated in the Massachusetts collegiate scene. As the CFL prepares for its summer kickoff, Winnipeg now holds the rights to two New England prospects who have options.