The Ottawa Renegades were a Canadian Football League (CFL) franchise representing Ottawa, Ontario, from 2002 to 2006. Known for their passionate fan base, the Ottawa Renegades CFL team aimed to restore the city’s football legacy after years without a franchise. Despite challenges, they remain a key part of Ottawa’s sports history.
Established
2002
City
Ottawa
League History
2002 - 2006 / Canadian Football League
Team History
2002 - 2006 / Ottawa Renegades
Nickname
Renegades - The Ottawa Renegades of the Canadian Football League (CFL) have a long and storied history, dating back to their formation in 2002. But what many fans may not know is that their nickname has an interesting origin story.
The team was originally called “the Rough Riders” after a famous cavalry unit from Canada's past – but this name was changed before they even took to the field for their first game. The reason? Another CFL team had already taken it – Saskatchewan's Roughriders! So, with time running out, the owners decided on “Renegades” as it reflected Ottawa's rebellious spirit and commitment to football excellence.
Ottawa Renegades Origin
In addition, there were other reasons behind choosing such an edgy name: it would draw attention from potential sponsors, give them something unique to the market, and make sure that no other teams could copy them! And so far, these goals have been achieved - as evidenced by how well-known they are today amongst sports fans across Canada and beyond!
To further celebrate this rich heritage of theirs, every year since 2003, they've held special events like "Rally Day," where players dress up in old-fashioned military uniforms reminiscent of those worn by members of The Rideau Regiment during World War I - adding yet another layer onto this fascinating story behind one of our country's most beloved professional football teams.
Championship
Grey Cup 0
Stadium
2002 - 2006 / Frank Clair Stadium
Owner
2006 / Bernie Glieberman, Bill Smith and Brad Waters
2002 - 2005 / Bill Smith, Gillis, Kisma, Brad Waters and Baker
- 2002
- 2007
-
Renegades Team Formation
The Ottawa Renegades returned Canadian Football League action to Canada’s capital in 2002. Ottawa had been without a team since 1996 when the Ottawa Rough Riders folded. The logo chosen draws similarities to the logo used by the Rough Riders for much of their existence up until 1992. The Renegades played four seasons and never qualified for the playoffs. -
No Return to CFL
With the team losing $3.8 million in 2005, and the possibility of losing an additional $2.3 million to $5.8 million in 2006, the organization requested financial assistance from the CFL, which the league was not willing to provide. On March 22, 2006, Bernie Glieberman decided to stop funding the Renegades. While the CFL previously took over operations of the Toronto Argonauts and ...
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Ottawa Renegades History
The Ottawa Renegades history began in 2002 when the team joined the Canadian Football League (CFL), bringing professional football back to Ottawa after a decade-long absence. The Renegades quickly built a strong local following, with dedicated fans eager to see their city return to the national football history spotlight. Although their time in the CFL was short-lived, the Renegades made a lasting impression through exciting performances and talented players.
In their inaugural 2002 season, the Ottawa Renegades faced the typical challenges of a new franchise but showed potential. By 2003, they finished the season with an 8–10 record, marking a significant improvement and returning playoff football to Ottawa. That season became one of the most memorable moments in Ottawa Renegades history, as the team won their East Division Semi-Final against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Unfortunately, their journey ended in a heartbreaking one-point loss at home to the Montreal Alouettes in the East Final, who later became the Grey Cup champions.
The 2004 season brought new hope as the Renegades continued to compete fiercely in the Canadian Football League. They posted a solid 9–8–1 record, showcasing consistency and growth under head coach Joe Paopao. However, the Ottawa Renegades CFL narrowly missed the playoffs due to a tiebreaker lost to the Toronto Argonauts on point differential. Despite the setback, their performance strengthened their place in CFL football history as a competitive and determined franchise.
Under Joe Paopao’s leadership, several moments stood out in the Ottawa Renegades history. Quarterback Kerry Joseph, who would later become one of the CFL’s top players, delivered thrilling fourth-quarter comebacks, including two victories over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in September 2003. Running back Josh Ranek also made his mark in Canadian Football League records with an incredible 257-yard rushing game against the Saskatchewan Roughriders in August 2004 — one of the finest single-game performances in CFL history.
Renegades Achievements
Unfortunately, despite flashes of brilliance and loyal fan support, the team struggled with declining attendance and ownership instability. By the end of the 2005 CFL season, ownership led by Bernie Glieberman decided to suspend operations. This left the passionate Ottawa fan base heartbroken, marking an emotional and unfinished end in the Ottawa Renegades CFL history chapter.
Notable Player Performances
Throughout their short run, the Renegades produced several standout players who left a mark in Canadian football history. Kerry Joseph became one of the league’s top dual-threat quarterbacks, while Josh Ranek’s rushing records remain an iconic part of CFL lore.
Memorable Seasons
The 2003 and 2004 campaigns remain highlights in Ottawa Renegades history, showcasing resilience, thrilling victories, and playoff contention. Though they never captured a Grey Cup title, the Renegades proved that Ottawa’s passion for football was alive and strong.
Legacy in Canadian Football
Even after the franchise folded, its spirit paved the way for the return of the Ottawa Redblacks in 2014, continuing the city’s proud tradition in CFL football history. The Renegades’ story remains an important chapter in both Ottawa’s sports culture and the broader Canadian Football League legacy.
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history