Good post. I don't think there is any one reason as to where the CFL has got themselves today.
A thing lack of proper leadership from the top has been key. It has the trickle down effect in so many other areas that are affected. I like Ambosie and his hands on approach and willingness to listen to fans and others that help sustain this league. Lots of work to be done for sure. I think adding another team to balance things out will also help add some credibility, what with having more competition, and an even conference setting.
Keeping Canadians in the game remains a core of this league. It provides an opportunity for interest at the grassroots level to sustain interest, as a lot of guys would never play after college, and others that attain NFL status would likely never have interest in the first place. I guess you could say the league "hides these guys" in the mostly least skill positions, but it still provides the opportunity. A bit of a challenge for GM's that their NFL counterparts don't have to deal with, and can seem unfair to some worthy American players, but part of what makes it unique. I hope they never change it.
I agree completely especially regarding the Canadian content.
For me (like you so perfectly put it) the Canadian content rule is part of what makes the CFL so unique.
The CFL has a unique connection with Canadian Universities and Canadian minor League Football (the grassroots as you put it) because of the Canadian content.
So I am with you....I hope it never changes.
That said the CFL really has to evolve and create more interest. IMO they need to reconnect with the younger fan base and cultivate a relationship with these young fans.
They also have to make the game experience more interesting and not by bringing in bands.
The players need to be more involved...the League needs to make them more accessible.
Perhaps post game meet and greets or something along those lines.
Just throwing stuff out there.