Nick Anderson’s big bet on himself hit the jackpot.

The Edmonton Elks linebacker and Vicksburg native was named the Canadian Football League’s Most Outstanding Rookie following a season in which he led the league in total tackles.

Anderson was selected over the other finalist, Hamilton wide receiver Shemar Bridges, at the CFL’s awards show Thursday night in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Anderson, who starred at Vicksburg High and Tulane University, wound up in the CFL after he was cut by the NFL’s New Orleans Saints at the end of training camp in 2023.

“I’m truly blessed, man,” Anderson said during his acceptance speech. “Those that know my story, those that know what I’ve been through, those that have been with me every part of the way, those that are just now coming into my life, know that I’m very dedicated to what I do each and every day. What I do on a daily basis comes down to the pillars of three things that are very important to me. First being God, second being family, and third being football.”

.@NickAnderson14_ accepts his first ever @CFL award. The rookie with the @GoElks put on a show this season. The @JC_BobcatsFB @GreenWaveFB alum.

His speech included 3 pillars. The Lord, his family, and football. Congrats on this award. @TheElksHerd @JC_Bobcats @JuCoFootballACE pic.twitter.com/6hQyPWaWUo

— Justin Aaron (@JustinAaronUH91) November 15, 2024

Anderson won a starting job with the Elks in training camp and continued to excel all season. He had 116 total tackles to lead the league, and 111 defensive tackles to tie teammate Nyles Morgan for the league lead. Total tackles include those made on special teams.

Anderson and Morgan became the first CFL teammates to record 110 or more defensive tackles in the same season.
Anderson also had three sacks, one interception and two forced fumbles.

In addition to the Most Outstanding Rookie Award, Anderson was named to the All-CFL team.

“I would like to thank the Edmonton Elks organization for giving a young Mississippi kid from Tulane University an opportunity to further his talents. When one door is shut they opened another,” Anderson said during his acceptance speech.

“I would like to thank my coaches, my teammates, for having patience with the new kid on the block,” Anderson continued. “I would also like to thank all my friends, my extended family, my Tulane family, my Vicksburg, Mississippi family, and everybody that has supported me throughout my long journey of playing the sport.”

Just the beginning… 🤯
 @NickAnderson14_ is the 5th EE player to take home the @CFL's Most Outstanding Rookie award. His 111 defensive tackles were the 2nd most by a rookie in league history!
 #GoElks | #CFL pic.twitter.com/BNZdpkG3yT

— Edmonton Elks (@GoElks) November 15, 2024