The Arizona Cardinals dealt with Edmonton Elks punter Jake Julien on Friday, according to the NFL's trade transfer.
Julien returned to the Elks midseason after being released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in training camp. In eight games, he carried 49 times for 2,503 gross and 1,980 net yards, averaging 51.1 yards per cleat, and made two special teams tackles.
The 27-year-old had a standout season with the Elks in 2024, when he led the CFL in rushing average (54.0 yards) and netting average (40.0 yards). He broke the league record for most punts in a single season, set by John Ryan in 2005, and tied for the league lead with eight punts inside the 10-yard line. He also recorded 15 singles. including a memorable overtime game winner.
The Barrie, Ontario native was originally selected by the Ottawa Redblacks in the fourth round of the 2021 CFL Draft. He decided to return to school for his senior year at Eastern Michigan University and signed with the New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent in 2022, although he was released in training camp.
Julien signed with the Buccaneers last offseason after working for at least six NFL teams. Arizona celebrated its second workout this offseason after attending New Orleans Saints.
NFL Practice Window opened on Monday, November 17th.. The window to sign with an NFL team opens January 5, 2026 and ends February 10, 2026 at 12:01 pm EST.
NFL teams must request permission from CFL franchises to train players, and that request cannot be denied. Julien is under contract with Edmonton through 2026, although CFL players could opt out of their agreements north of the border if an NFL team offers a contract. Edmonton will retain its rights for the duration of the canceled contract.
The Cardinals are already out of the playoffs and sit in last place in the NFC West with a 3-11 record. They will host the Atlanta Falcons (5-9) on Sunday, December 21st at 4:05 pm EST.
