Money in the Banks

The B.C. Lions announced they have re-signed veteran defensive back Korey Banks.

"Over the past number of years, Korey has been a central figure in our defence and on our team," Lions general manager and vice-president of football operations Wally Buono said in a press release. "Having him under contract is a big part of our foundation moving forward and this is a very important extension."

The 32-year-old has been with the Lions since 2006 and has been named a West Division all-star in each of his seasons with the team.

"If the defence was a single player then Korey would definitely be the heartbeat of that player," head coach Mike Benevides said. "Even now, as he enters his ninth season, he is simply one our league's best defensive players. His versatility and athletic ability are unmatched and I'm thrilled to know he's with us."

Banks has won two Grey Cups with the Lions, one in 2006 as well as one this past season when the Lions defeated the Winnipeg Blue Bombers at B.C. Place Stadium in Vancouver.

"I think we proved last year that we have very talented core players on both sides of the ball and I fully expect us to be contending for a championship in 2012," Banks said.

Prior to joining the Lions in 2006, Banks spent two seasons with the Ottawa Renegades where he was named a CFL East Division all-star in 2005 following a 10-intereception season.

In eight seasons in the CFL, Banks has recorded 346 tackles, 21 sacks, 34 interceptions and seven touchdowns.