Cincinnati Football: Joel Dublanko drafted with first overall pick in 2024 CFL Draft

Cincinnati Bearcats face Iowa State Cyclones in Big 12 matchup at Nippert Stadium in 2023
Cincinnati Bearcats face Iowa State Cyclones in Big 12 matchup at Nippert Stadium in 2023 / Kareem Elgazzar/The Enquirer / USA TODAY
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After spending time in the NFL in recent years, Cincinnati Bearcats linebacker Joel Dublanko was drafted atop the 2024 CFL Draft this week!

Dublanko finished his Bearcats career with 233 tackles and 7.5 sacks in 64 appearances on the way to taking home All-AAC honors as a senior.

The former Bearcats standout showcased his potential for the Seattle Seahawks in the past and will play for the Edmonton Elks next year!

"I've gotten better from when I was in college and I think I'm the fastest I've ever been now," Dublanko told Sports Illustrated in an interview.

Cincinnati Football: Joel Dublanko drafted with first pick in 2024 CFL Draft

Cincinnati product and Bearcats star defensive lineman Jowon Briggs was selected during the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft last week!

During his memorable career with the Bearcats, Briggs developed into a key part of the defense with 130 tackles and eight sacks in three years.

The Cincinnati native improved his draft stock after having an impressive performance at the inaugural Big 12 Conference Pro Day in March.

Stay tuned for the latest recruiting updates and transfer portal rumors as the Bearcats coaching staff continues to put together the 2024 roster!

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