After the 2013 CFL Draft, the league changed its eligibility rules so that an NCAA player’s draft year would correspond with the completion of his college eligibility. In theory, the benefits should be twofold. First of all, and most importantly, much of the guesswork has been eliminated in terms of projecting the likelihood of losing a given prospect to the NFL. The secondary advantage that was supposed to be gained is that top prospects from NCAA programs would now be able to attend the CFL Combine without jeopardizing any remaining college eligibility. Well, for a number of top players in the Class of 2015, the terms “willing” and “able” don’t necessarily go together, as the following invitees (listed alphabetically) were either unwilling or unable to be in Toronto this weekend.

Brandon Bridge (QB, South Alabama, 6’5”, 235 lbs.): While his game isn’t as refined as Jesse Palmer’s was coming out of college, ‘Air Canada’ is the most physically gifted quarterback prospect ever produced in this country. Blessed with size, mobility, and a very strong arm, the native of Mississauga, Ontario has spent the past two summers honing his craft alongside the NCAA’s top QBs at the renowned Manning Passing Academy. Since completing his senior season, he has participated in the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl and the NFL Combine. Described by some as a “poor man’s Colin Kaepernick,” he is expected to be in an NFL camp this summer. Bridge’s Pro Day will take place on Monday.

Brett Boyko (OT, Nevada-Las Vegas, 6’7”, 310 lbs.): As a four-year starter, primarily at left tackle, and two-time All-Mountain West selection, this Saskatoon product has as impressive a résumé as any prospect in this class. He attended last month’s NFL Combine and was also invited to the East-West Shrine Game but didn’t participate due to injury. His NFL stock may have fallen slightly over the last year but he should still be drafted.

Christian Covington (DT, Rice, 6’3”, 300 lbs.): The son of Canadian Football Hall of Famer Grover Covington and undisputed best player in the Class of 2015 became eligible for the CFL Draft when he declared for early entry to the NFL Draft. The Vancouver native was projected by many as a potential first round NFL pick prior to suffering a season ending knee injury. Still rehabbing, but expected to make a complete recovery, he will definitely be selected in the NFL Draft.

Alex Mateas (OC, Connecticut, 6’4”, 309 lbs.): Originally a Penn State recruit, he became a three-year starter at centre for the Huskies and was also named a team captain as a senior. He was selected to play in the College Gridiron Showcase in January and is considered the early favourite to be chosen first overall by his hometown Ottawa Redblacks in the May 12 draft. Still holding on to some NFL hopes, he will work out at UConn’s Pro Day on Tuesday.

Matthew Norzil (REC, 6’2”, 190, Laval): In terms of skill and talent, he’s one of the elite players in this class, however injuries have clouded his status. After missing most of the last two seasons due to a knee injury, he tested off the charts at Wednesday’s Montreal regional combine. Unfortunately, however, he later injured a hamstring during one-on-ones, preventing him from participating in the CFL Combine this weekend.

Tyler Varga (RB, Yale, 5’11”, 224 lbs.): The 2011 CIS Rookie of the Year enjoyed similar dominance in three Ivy League seasons, averaging 124.4 rushing yards per game in that time. Strong showings at the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine (despite not running due to injury) have boosted his stock south of the border to a point where he is expected to crack an NFL roster.