The Ottawa Redblacks released defensive back Shadwel Nkuba II on Thursday, according to the CFL Transactions page.
Shadwel Nkuba II is six foot and weighs 190 pounds. The 24-year-old from Lewisville, Texas, signed with the Ottawa Redblacks on May 6, 2026. In 2026, he made two tackles and two tackles on special teams in two preseason games. Nkuba II appeared in one regular-season game against the Edmonton Elks with two tackles.
Collegiately, Nkuba II began his collegiate career as a redshirt Freshman at East Central University in 2020, but did not play for the Tigers due to the cancellation of the season. Next, he transferred to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (2023-24) with 13 tackles (11 solos, 2 assists) and five pass breakups in 17 games for the Rajin’ Cajuns.
Then, he transferred to Illinois State in 2025, where he was named First Team All-MVFC, MVFC Newcomer of the Year, and All-American after finishing the season with a career-high 79 tackles (45 solos, 34 assists), 2.5 tackles for loss, one sack, five interceptions, 13 pass breakups, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery in 17 games for the Redbirds.
