Braedyn Wagner brings size and edge to Axemen defensive line

Braedyn Wagner brings size and edge to Axemen defensive line
February 3, 2026

The Acadia Axemen football program has added size, strength, and proven production to its defensive front with the commitment of Braedyn Wagner, a 6-foot-2, 285-pound defensive lineman from Calgary, Alta.

Wagner will join the Axemen for the 2026 U SPORTS season after graduating from Springbank Community High School and plans to study business at Acadia.

A consistent presence in the trenches, Wagner played three seasons with the Springbank Phoenix, competing in the Rockyview Football Association from 2023 to 2025. He served as a team captain for two years and earned multiple individual honours, including the team’s coaches award in 2024 and defensive player of the year recognition in 2025. He was also named a league all-star during his senior season.

Wagner continued his development through spring football with the Calgary Wildcats, where he competed for three seasons in the Calgary Spring Football Association. During that time, he helped the Wildcats capture two league championships and established himself as one of the league’s top defensive linemen. He earned Defensive Lineman of the Year honours twice, was named a CSFA all-star, and received the Fighting Heart award. Wagner started every game across two full regular and playoff seasons with the program.

At the provincial level, Wagner represented the Alberta Golden Bears Selects, serving as a tournament captain and contributing defensively throughout select competition. Earlier in his career, he also competed with the Springbank Phoenix junior program, earning lineman of the year honours and league all-star recognition.

Wagner has consistently produced statistically. In his final spring season with the Calgary Wildcats, he recorded 27 tackles and four sacks. His strongest single-game performance came during a city championship, where he finished with eight tackles and a sack. Across three spring seasons, he totaled 53 tackles and six sacks.

Wagner said committing to Acadia represents more than just football.

“Committing to Acadia means embracing a family culture driven by respect, toughness, and community involvement,” Wagner said. “I’m excited to be pushed to become a better player, student, and person while representing the Axemen with everything I have.”