5 CFL rookies who could start on opening night

With the 2015 CFL Draft now over, rookies are setting their sights on their professional football debuts.

Here are five first-year players who may start for their clubs on opening night.

Alex Mateas, Ottawa Redblacks

It's not every day a prospect announces their own draft selection, but Alex Mateas got to do just that. The Ottawa native and former University of Connecticut offensive lineman was praised by Redblacks general manager Marcel Desjardins as capable of starting this season, although it's yet to be determined at what position: center or guard.

Danny Groulx, Edmonton Eskimos

Many believed Danny Groulx could go first overall at the draft. The three-time Vanier Cup winner provides size, grit, and a winning attitude, making him a welcome addition to the Eskimos ahead of the 2015 season. "He’s ready to come in and compete right away and to play right away,” Ed Hervey confirmed to Chris O'Leary of the Edmonton Journal.

Sukh Chungh, Winnipeg Blue Bombers

The Blue Bombers must protect quarterback Drew Willy better. The beastly Sukh Chungh can provide security, and general manager Kyle Walters is aware of it. "He won't be intimidated on day one of training camp to compete with anybody,” Walters said to the Winnipeg Sun's Kirk Penton.

Chris Ackie, Montreal Alouettes

The top-rated defensive back in the draft went to the Montreal Alouettes' fourth overall. Chris Ackie's versatility is his most appealing feature, enabling him to possibly don an Alouettes jersey on opening night. "I'm comfortable playing any position," Ackie told Herb Zurkowsky of the Montreal Gazette. "They can fit me in wherever they need me."

Ese Mrabure-Ajufo, B.C. Lions

Even Ese Mrabure-Ajufo was surprised to be selected fifth overall. "It came right out of left field," Mrabure-Ajufo told TSN Radio. Thanks to new Lions head coach Jeff Tedford, general manager Wally Buono was swayed in utilizing new scouting methods, such as football analyses for the pick. The choice is intriguing, causing many to wonder why value him so highly, and how he will be incorporated.