Dennis Haley.

Hamilton, Ontario - The Hamilton Tiger-Cats announced today that the team has acquired import defensive back Jerome Dennis from the B.C. Lions in exchange for import linebacker Dennis Haley.

"We're pleased to add Jerome's speed and physical style of play to our team," said General Manager Bob O'Billovich. "He's a skilled special teams player who will have an opportunity to earn a starting spot in our secondary."

Dennis, a 6-1, 190-pound native of Carson, California made 26 defensive tackles, 28 special teams tackles, one quarterback sack and two fumble recoveries in 43 regular season games over the course of three years (2007-09) with the Lions. He signed with the Lions as a free agent in May of 2007 after a stint with the NFL's Indianapolis Colts.

Before turning pro, Dennis played four seasons at Utah State, where he racked up 95 tackles (66 solo) and two interceptions while returning 37 kickoffs for 921 yards (24.9 avg).

"This is a good opportunity for both players," said Lions GM and head coach Wally Buono. "The depth we currently have at defensive back enables us to acquire a player in Dennis Haley who has a good foundation as a pro as well as some CFL experience at the linebacker spot."

Haley started all four games he appeared in during his rookie CFL season with the Tiger-Cats last year and recorded 18 defensive tackles, one special teams tackle and one interception.

The Salem, Virginia native was originally signed by the New York Jets in 2005 and spent time with the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49'ers before coming north in 2009.