Toronto Argonauts fans have a renewed sense of optimism as the team bolsters its roster with the addition of linebacker Enock Makonzo and wide receiver Dymere Miller. The signings, announced February 18, 2026, aim to address key needs as the Argonauts look to rebound from a challenging 2025 season and contend for a Grey Cup championship. The acquisition of Makonzo, a highly touted Canadian prospect, is particularly significant, offering a potential long-term solution at a crucial defensive position. This influx of talent comes as the Argonauts prepare for the 2026 CFL season, hoping to improve upon their 5-13 record from the previous year.
Makonzo’s journey to Toronto has been marked by both promise and setbacks. Originally selected fourth overall in the 2022 CFL Draft by the Edmonton Elks, the Lachine, Quebec native showcased his potential in two seasons, recording 67 defensive tackles, two sacks, and two forced fumbles in 22 regular-season games. However, a series of unfortunate events, including an injury that sidelined him for the entirety of the 2025 season after signing with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and subsequent stints with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, have delayed his full impact on the league. According to his Wikipedia page, Makonzo was born May 1, 1997, to Congolese parents. He initially attended Cégep du Vieux Montréal before pursuing his collegiate career in the United States.
A Collegiate Foundation and CFL Aspirations
Before entering the CFL, Makonzo honed his skills at both New Mexico Military Institute and Coastal Carolina University. At Coastal Carolina, the 5’10”, 189-pound linebacker made a significant impact, amassing 150 total tackles, 21.5 tackles for loss, and five forced fumbles over 27 games. His collegiate performance established him as a premier draft prospect, leading to his initial selection by the Elks. The Argonauts are hoping that a change of scenery and a stable environment will allow Makonzo to finally realize his potential and become a cornerstone of their defense. His ability to contribute both against the run and in pass coverage will be vital as Toronto seeks to improve its defensive ranking, which stood at sixth in the CFL in 2025.
Miller Brings Receiving Threat to Toronto
Joining Makonzo in Toronto is American receiver Dymere Miller. The five-foot-eleven, 184-pound Miller brings a promising resume to the Argonauts’ receiving corps. After going undrafted by the New York Jets in 2025, Miller is looking for his opportunity to make an impact in the CFL. He finished his collegiate career at Rutgers University, where he recorded 59 catches for 757 yards and four touchdowns in 13 games. Prior to Rutgers, Miller excelled at Monmouth University, where he amassed an impressive 168 receptions for 2,387 yards and 17 touchdowns over three seasons, earning FCS All-American honors in 2023. His ability to create separation and make contested catches could provide a valuable boost to Toronto’s passing attack.
Argonauts Aim to Rebound in 2026
The Argonauts’ 2025 season was marked by challenges, finishing third in the East Division with a 5-13 record and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2019. A significant factor in their struggles was the absence of franchise quarterback Chad Kelly, who was sidelined with a fractured leg sustained in the previous year’s East Final. Nick Arbuckle stepped in, throwing for 4,370 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions, earning the team’s nomination for Most Outstanding Player. However, the Argonauts’ overall offensive and defensive statistics revealed areas for improvement. They ranked seventh in net offense, sixth in net defense, and seventh in turnover differential. Attendance as well saw a slight decrease, averaging 15,109 fans per game.
The addition of Makonzo and Miller represents a clear effort by the Argonauts to address these shortcomings and build a more competitive roster. The team will be looking for both players to contribute immediately, providing depth and playmaking ability on both sides of the ball. As the Argonauts prepare for the upcoming season, the focus will be on integrating these new additions into the team’s system and building a cohesive unit capable of challenging for a playoff berth. The next key date for the Argonauts will be the start of training camp, where coaches will initiate evaluating the team’s progress and finalizing their roster for the 2026 season.
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