Montreal Alouettes‘ standout receiver Tyson Philpot is headed for free agency, initiating a critical period for both the player and the team. Coming off a strong 2025 season where he consistently impacted the Alouettes’ offense,philpot now faces negotiations that will determine weather he remains a key component of Montreal’s roster. The Canadian receiver’s value is amplified by both his on-field performance and his national player status within the CFL’s ratio system, setting the stage for potentially complex contract talks.
MONTREAL – Negotiations have begun with standout receiver Tyson Philpot as his contract with the Montreal Alouettes has expired, leaving his future with the team uncertain.
Philpot is arguably the most impactful offensive player for Montreal alongside quarterback Davis Alexander. His performance has been crucial to the Alouettes’ success, particularly in high-stakes games.
The explosive receiver showcased his talent in the 2025 championship game, hauling in five catches for 87 yards despite facing tight coverage. Alexander even admitted a potential touchdown pass to Philpot was narrowly missed due to a lack of arm strength on the throw.
In the Canadian Football League (CFL), receivers who reach elite status typically command salaries exceeding $200,000. In 2025, Kenny Lawler and Justin McInnis both earned over $250,000, followed by Justin Hardy, Nic Demski, Tim White, and Eugene Lewis with contracts around $225,000, compared to $191,000 for Austin Mack.
Philpot has proven his value surpasses Mack, who was shifted to a wide receiver position with fewer opportunities. Furthermore, Philpot’s Canadian status enhances his value due to the league’s ratio requirements.
“I’m entering uncharted territory,” said Philpot. “I received a contract extension after the Grey Cup in 2023. I love it here, I’m very grateful to the city, and I’ve been so well-received. I would like to stay in Montreal and reach an agreement.”
“But I don’t have a crystal ball. I’ll be discussing things with Danny (Maciocia, the general manager). It needs to make sense for me and my family,” he added.
Philpot has avoided injury throughout his first four seasons in the CFL, a key factor in his consistent production. In 12 games in 2025, he amassed 804 receiving yards. Projecting that over a full 18-game season, he would have exceeded 1200 yards, placing him among the league’s top five receivers.
That yardage total could have been even higher with Alexander as his primary quarterback for a full 18 games, after Alexander took over the starting role for 11 contests.
Maciocia has prioritized retaining the core of the Alouettes’ roster and building around those key players. However, when a receiver demands a salary of over $200,000 per season, teams often consider the possibility of signing two players for the same price.
This situation contributed to the departure of receiver Eugene Lewis.
“I’ve seen Eugene Lewis negotiate a big contract and I’ve seen what happened afterward,” Philpot said. “I’m going to lean on players who have been in the same situation and do what’s best for me.”
Lewis secured a lucrative deal with Edmonton in 2023 and 2024 before playing for Ottawa in 2025, ultimately sacrificing some team success in the process.
“The grass isn’t always greener on the other side,” Philpot admitted as he weighs his options.
Potential Reunion with Twin Brother?
Another significant factor is the possibility of playing alongside his twin brother, Jalen, who has one year remaining on his contract with the Calgary Stampeders.
Tyson Philpot could potentially receive a substantial offer to join Jalen in Calgary. However, the Alouettes receiver also expressed a desire for Jalen to play for a contending team like Montreal.
“It does intrigue me to play with my brother. I’ve seen the Ford brothers (Tre and Tyrell) so it feels more tangible,” Philpot said, referencing the Ford brothers’ recent pairing in Edmonton.
Key Alouettes Facing Free Agency
Several other key Alouettes players are also approaching free agency, according to a list published by 3downnation:
Tyson Philpot (receiver)
Darnell Sankey (linebacker)
Pier-Olivier Lestage (offensive line)
Marc-Antoine Dequoy (safety)
Tyrell Richards (special teams/linebacker)
Alexandre Gagné (special teams/linebacker)
Charleston Rambo (receiver)
Cole Spieker (receiver)
McLeod Bethel-Thompson (quarterback)
Shea Patterson (quarterback)
