Multiple CFL signings have happened in the past 48 hours, from re-signings, to extensions and to free agency signings. The LWOS CFL department takes a look at the four key CFL signings.
Latest CFL Signings
Chris Milo Extends with Redblacks through 2017
Originally signed by the Ottawa Redblacks on July 31, after being released from the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Milo was a key asset to Ottawa’s special teams en route to their Grey Cup visit. The 29-year-old Laval University product kicked 32/36 field goals and 34/39 extra points, good enough for fourth and third best conversions in the league, respectively. Milo was already signed through the 2016 season but extended his contract by one year.
After punter Anthony Alix went down with an injury late last season, Milo assumed punting duties and did a fantastic job. He shares the record for longest punt in pro football after he booted the ball 108 yards back in the 2011 season. His accuracy this season gave opponents long fields and almost sealed an Ottawa division championship with his coffin punt against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats last season.
After making his second trip to the Grey Cup this past fall, the Montreal native will look to help the Redblacks return to the title game for the next two seasons.
Dominic Picard Signs with the Alouettes
The Montreal Alouettes continue to add local flair to their offensive line with the signing of national Dominic Picard. The ten-year veteran will join his fourth team after stints with the Toronto Argonauts, Saskatchewan Roughriders and most recently, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. The Quebec native was signed to a one-year contract.
Picard has started 143 out of his 151 career appearances and will likely be a solid depth player for the Alouettes. After All-Star centre Luc Brodeur-Jourdain went down with an injury last season, the team was thin at the position and it showed on the field. Picard will add security to the group of offensive linemen.
The All-Star from the University of Laval was the top offensive lineman for the Argonauts in 2011 and for the Roughriders in 2012 and 2014. Picard has one Grey Cup ring, which he won alongside Milo, in 2013.
Bowman and Austin Signings
As seen in previous articles by LWOS, John Bowman signed a one-year deal with the Alouettes and coach Kent Austin extended his contract with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats by four years, through the 2019 season.
These are good signings for both veterans of the league and their clubs. Bowman led the league in sacks last season, with 19, despite being benched for two games and Austin has turned Hamilton into the powerhouse of the East Division. The two will battle it out in 2016 for a spot in the Grey Cup, representing the East.
Stay tuned for the latest CFL signings as the off-season continues.
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