Ian Smart, one of three players released by Lions.

THE CANADIAN PRESS

VANCOUVER -- The B.C. Lions have released running back Ian Smart, defensive back LaVar Glover and defensive lineman Nautyn McKay-Loescher, the team announced late Thursday.

"LaVar, Ian and Nautyn have been very good players for our club and we thank them for their services," Lions head coach and GM Wally Buono said in a release.

Glover was signed as a free agent by the Lions in 2006 and compiled 116 tackles, seven interceptions and two touchdowns with B.C.

Smart also joined the Lions in 2006, after his early season release by the Montreal Alouettes. In 2009, the Kingston, Jamaica, native returned 20 kickoffs for 399 yards, to go along with 16 punt returns for 119 yards.

McKay-Loescher was originally selected by the Lions in the 2004 CFL draft and re-signed with the club in March 2009 after a stint with Hamilton. In five CFL seasons, the Toronto native has 46 tackles and 26 sacks.

Meanwhile, the Lions also announced that linebacker JoJuan Armour has retired.

"JoJuan was a leader on the field and in our dressing room and we wish him the very best," said Buono.

In six seasons with B.C., Hamilton and Calgary, Armour amassed 295 tackles and 16 sacks.