David Ungerer III has become a recognizable name in Canadian Football League circles after achieving his ultimate goal of winning the Grey Cup championship with the Toronto Argonauts.
The talented wide receiver’s journey from a college walk-on to professional champion showcases determination and skill in football’s most competitive environment.
His story represents the American dream realized on Canadian soil, where hard work and persistence have paid off with championship glory.
David Ungerer’s Biography
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David Ungerer III |
| Date of Birth | September 16, 1995 |
| Age | 29 years old |
| Height | 5’9″ (175 cm) |
| Weight | 171 lbs (78 kg) |
| Nationality | American-Canadian |
| Current Team | Toronto Argonauts |
| Position | Wide Receiver |
| College | University of Idaho |
| Turned Professional | 2019 |
| @david_ungerer |
Early Career
David Ungerer’s football story began in Pullman, Washington, where he was born into a football family. His father, Dave Ungerer, worked as a college football coach for over 30 years, which meant football was literally in David’s blood from day one.
In fact, he was born on a game day when his father was coaching at the University of Maryland, and his dad brought him the game ball from their victory that same night.
Growing up as a coach’s son, Ungerer moved frequently as his family followed his father’s coaching career from school to school. This constant relocation taught him adaptability and resilience, qualities that would serve him well in his professional career.
Despite the football environment, young David initially preferred basketball and had to develop his passion for football over time.
His high school career at Pullman High School showcased his athletic abilities. He played multiple positions and demonstrated the versatility that would become his trademark. The small-town environment in Pullman, located just seven miles from the University of Idaho campus, kept him close to his future college destination.
His high school success earned him recognition, but he remained relatively under the radar compared to highly recruited prospects.
Professional Career
David Ungerer’s professional journey began when the Hamilton Tiger-Cats selected him 11th overall in the second round of the 2019 CFL Draft. This selection made him only the fourth University of Idaho player to be drafted in the modern CFL era, highlighting the significance of his achievement.
His rookie season in 2019 was limited by a hamstring injury that kept him out for the first two months, allowing him to play only 10 games where he caught just 2 passes for 44 yards.
The 2020 season was cancelled due to the pandemic, but Ungerer returned stronger in 2021 as a regular starter with Hamilton. He recorded his first career touchdown on a memorable 23-yard reception from Dane Evans during the Labour Day Classic against Toronto on September 6, 2021.
That season established him as a reliable target with 15 receptions for 187 yards and one touchdown in 14 games.
His breakout moment came when he signed with the Toronto Argonauts as a free agent on March 9, 2023. In his first season with Toronto, Ungerer exploded for career-highs with 41 catches for 579 yards and three touchdowns in 18 games.
This performance earned him a two-year contract extension through the 2025 season in October 2023.
David Ungerer’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, David Ungerer’s estimated net worth is approximately $500,000 to $750,000.
Contract
David Ungerer signed a significant two-year contract extension with the Toronto Argonauts in October 2023, keeping him with the team through the 2025 season. This extension came after his breakout 2023 campaign where he recorded career-highs in receptions, yards, and touchdowns.
The contract represents a substantial increase from his previous deals with Hamilton, reflecting his improved performance and value to the team. While exact salary figures are not publicly disclosed due to CFL privacy policies, the extension demonstrates the Argonauts’ confidence in his abilities and potential for continued growth.
Salary
CFL player salaries typically range from the league minimum of approximately $65,000 CAD to over $500,000 CAD for star players. As an established receiver with Grey Cup championship experience, Ungerer likely earns in the middle tier of this range, estimated between $120,000 to $180,000 CAD annually.
The 2025 CFL salary cap increased to $6,062,365, representing growth in league revenues that benefits all players. His salary has grown progressively from his rookie contract in 2019 to his current extension, reflecting his development and increased contribution to team success.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Estimated Earnings (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Hamilton Tiger-Cats | $75,000 |
| 2020 | No Season (COVID-19) | $0 |
| 2021 | Hamilton Tiger-Cats | $95,000 |
| 2022 | Hamilton Tiger-Cats | $110,000 |
| 2023 | Toronto Argonauts | $140,000 |
| 2024 | Toronto Argonauts | $160,000 |
| 2025 | Toronto Argonauts | $175,000 |
Career Statistics
| Year | Team | Games | Receptions | Receiving Yards | Touchdowns | Average Per Reception |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | HAM | 10 | 2 | 44 | 0 | 22.0 |
| 2021 | HAM | 14 | 15 | 187 | 1 | 12.5 |
| 2022 | HAM | 14 | 16 | 225 | 1 | 14.1 |
| 2023 | TOR | 18 | 41 | 579 | 3 | 14.1 |
| 2024 | TOR | 12 | 32 | 425 | 1 | 13.3 |
| 2025 | TOR | 5 | 15 | 194 | 0 | 12.9 |
| Totals | 73 | 121 | 1,654 | 6 | 13.7 |
College Career Statistics
| Year | Games | Receptions | Receiving Yards | Touchdowns | Punt Returns | Punt Return Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 10 | 8 | 96 | 0 | 11 | 65 |
| 2016 | 11 | 6 | 27 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2017 | 12 | 39 | 432 | 6 | 12 | 78 |
| 2018 | 11 | 70 | 702 | 4 | 14 | 198 |
| Totals | 44 | 123 | 1,257 | 10 | 37 | 341 |
FAQs
Where was David Ungerer born and what is his athletic background?
Ungerer was born on September 16, 1995, in Pullman, Washington. He played high school football at Pullman High and starred for five seasons as a wide receiver at the University of Idaho, finishing with 116 catches for 1,225 yards and 10 touchdowns.
What draft pick was Ungerer and which CFL team selected him?
Hamilton Tiger-Cats drafted Ungerer 11th overall in the second round of the 2019 CFL Draft, recognizing his speed and reliability as a receiver and return specialist after a strong college career at Idaho.
How did Ungerer’s rookie CFL season unfold?
Ungerer made his CFL debut in August 2019, played 10 games as a rookie, and tallied two catches for 44 yards. He also contributed as a punt returner and appeared on the post-season roster, though he did not play in the Grey Cup.
What was significant about Ungerer’s first touchdown in the CFL?
Ungerer scored his first career CFL touchdown in September 2021 during the Labour Day Classic against Toronto, catching a 23-yard pass that highlighted his growing role with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
What are Ungerer’s most recent stats with the Toronto Argonauts?
He set career highs in 2023 with Toronto, recording 41 receptions for 579 yards and three touchdowns while starting in seven games. In 2024, he played 12 games after injury, adding 32 catches for 425 yards and a touchdown, then contributed in Toronto’s Grey Cup win.
