The Ford Brothers: A Tale of Twin Success and Reunion

The story of Tre and Tyrell Ford, identical twin brothers from Niagara Falls, Ontario, is one of incredible talent, perseverance, and the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. After years of separate journeys in professional football, the brothers have reunited as teammates with the Edmonton Elks of the Canadian Football League (CFL). Their reunion has brought immense joy not only to themselves but also to those who have witnessed their growth, including their former University of Waterloo head coach, Chris Bertoia. For Bertoia, who has known the twins since their high school days, their journey is nothing short of inspiring. “It’s really a neat story, and I’m super proud of those guys,” he said. The Fords’ ability to balance their individual identities while maintaining a strong bond has made their reunion all the more special.

Rising Stars at the University of Waterloo

The Ford brothers first made their mark on the football field during their time at the University of Waterloo, where they played under Coach Bertoia from 2017 to 2021. Tre Ford, a quarterback, quickly emerged as a standout player, earning the title of Canadian university football’s top rookie in 2017. By 2018, he became the starting quarterback and led the Waterloo Warriors to their first playoff appearance in over a decade. His success continued in the following seasons, guiding the team to its first postseason victory since 1999. Tre’s stellar performance earned him the Hec Crighton Trophy in 2021, awarded to the most outstanding player in Canadian university football. He also received the prestigious Lois and Doug Mitchell Award as U Sports’ top male athlete for 2021-22.

Tyrell Ford, on the other hand, excelled as a cornerback during his time at Waterloo. He became a two-time second-team all-Canadian in 2019 and 2021, showcasing his defensive prowess. Over four seasons, he appeared in 30 games, recording 94 tackles, six sacks, six interceptions, and 20 pass knockdowns. Tyrell also made a significant impact on special teams, returning 40 kickoffs for 733 yards and 82 punts for 1,139 yards, including three touchdowns. His impressive college career earned him a spot in the second round of the 2022 CFL Draft, where he was selected 13th overall by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

The Journey to Professional Football

Tre Ford’s professional journey began when he was drafted by the Edmonton Elks in the first round of the 2022 CFL Draft, with the eighth overall pick. He signed a three-year deal to remain with the team, marking the start of his CFL career. Despite his early success in college, Tre faced challenges in Edmonton, initially playing behind established quarterbacks like Taylor Cornelius, Jarret Doege, and McLeod Bethel-Thompson. However, he has since established himself as the team’s starting quarterback and face of the franchise, amassing 18 career starts with a 9-9 record over 38 regular-season games.

Tyrell Ford’s professional journey took a different path. After being drafted by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2022, he was released in January 2023 to pursue an opportunity with the NFL’s Green Bay Packers. Although he was part of the Packers’ final cuts, Tyrell returned to the CFL and quickly became a standout player. In his 2023 season with the Blue Bombers, he earned CFL All-Star honors with 51 tackles and seven interceptions, finishing second in the league behind Rolan Milligan Jr. of the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Tyrell’s performance also earned him the league’s best defensive and coverage grades from Pro Football Focus, an American-based sports analytics company.

A Dream Reunion in Edmonton

The reunion of the Ford brothers in Edmonton was made official in 2023 when Tyrell signed with the Elks during free agency, joining his brother Tre on the same team for the first time since their days at Waterloo. For Bertoia, this moment was a testament to the brothers’ hard work and dedication. “Good on Edmonton for signing them both and getting them back together,” he said. “I think it’s something that’s certainly a dream of theirs to play professionally together.” The reunion has also brought excitement to their former coach, who can now watch both brothers in action during the same game.

More Than Just Twin Brothers

While the Ford brothers share an unbreakable bond, they have distinct personalities that set them apart. According to Bertoia, Tre is the more serious and even-keel of the two, often focused on his craft, while Tyrell is more talkative and laid-back. Despite their differences, both brothers are known for their work ethic, leadership, and ability to balance professionalism with a sense of humor. Bertoia recalled a time when the twins playfully took a photo of themselves sitting at his desk while he was away, showcasing their mischievous side. “They’re still kids at heart and like to have fun, but they also want to win,” he said.

As the Ford brothers continue their journey with the Edmonton Elks, their reunion serves as a reminder of the power of determination, talent, and brotherly love. The story of Tre and Tyrell Ford is not just about football; it’s about two individuals who have pursued their dreams together, supporting each other every step of the way. Their reunion is a dream come true, and their shared success on and off the field continues to inspire everyone who follows their journey.