Nick Mardner worked hard on the field on his first day of the CFL, staying late to catch passes from quarterback Jeremiah Masoli.

Wearing jersey number 84, Mardner had a wonderful day, as did the Redblacks, who signed 6-foot-6 receiver and this year’s No. 2 overall choice in the CFL Draft on Monday.

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It turns out that if you want to catch footballs for a living, being tall and quick is a fairly good combo.

This is where I’m meant to be,” said Mardner, who is coming off a mini-camp invite from the New York Giants. “I need to get up to speed with some of the guys who’ve been here a few more days than me.

“I learned a lot (in the NFL look), it was a good experience to get in there with some high draft picks and see how it works.”

“I’m looking to see him learn and show the athletic ability he has,” said Redblacks coach Bob Dyce. “He’s a couple of days late, but we’re super excited to have him.

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The ceiling will be high with Mardner, whose size and pass-catching abilities will give him a chance to be an impact player. There’s probably a lot more in the toolbox than what he showed last year with the Auburn Tigers, when he was hampered by a foot issue and played four games.

Prior to transferring to Auburn, Mardner recorded 19 catches for 218 yards and three touchdowns in 2022 with Cincinnati. He previously suited up for Hawaii from 2018-2021, where he made 62 receptions for 1,270 yards and nine touchdowns.

“I feel like I’m pro ready,” said Mardner. “I’ve been pro ready for the past couple of years. I’m really excited to learn from some of the older guys who have been in this league and proved themselves. I’m excited to watch them work and try to do the same thing.