Jason Shivers

Jason Shivers is currently serving as the Assistant Head Coach, Defensive Coordinator, and Linebackers Coach for the Edmonton Elks in the Canadian Football League (CFL). His return to the Elks marks a significant point in his coaching career, as he previously held the position of defensive backs coach with the team from 2014 to 2015, during which he contributed to their victory in the 2015 Grey Cup.125

Background and Playing Career

Shivers played five seasons in the CFL, primarily with the Toronto Argonauts from 2007 to 2009 and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats from 2010 to 2011. Before his CFL career, he was drafted in the fifth round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams, and he spent part of that season with the Chicago Bears.45

Coaching Career

Shivers began his coaching career as a defensive assistant with the Toronto Argonauts in 2013. He then joined the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2016 as a defensive backs coach and was promoted to defensive coordinator in 2019, a role he held until the end of the 2023 season.134 His experience includes:

• 2019-2023: Defensive Coordinator, Saskatchewan Roughriders
• 2016-2018: Defensive Backs Coach, Saskatchewan Roughriders
• 2014-2015: Defensive Backs Coach, Edmonton Eskimos
• 2013: Defensive Assistant, Toronto Argonauts

Recent Developments

In March 2024, Shivers was officially announced as part of the Elks' new coaching staff, which aims to improve upon a challenging previous season.67 His extensive experience and previous success with Chris Jones, who is also back as head coach, are expected to play a crucial role in revitalizing the team's performance.23

Shivers' deep understanding of defensive strategies and player development is anticipated to significantly impact the Elks' defense as they prepare for the upcoming season.