Pile staying with Argos

THE CANADIAN PRESS

TORONTO -- The Toronto Argonauts re-signed veteran linebacker Willie Pile on Friday.

Pile, the Argos' defensive captain, became a free agent Wednesday and signed through the 2013 season.

"We are excited Willie has decided to continue playing and will be back in the Double Blue," general manager Jim Barker said in a statement. "He is a great team leader and he was highly productive last season.

"Willie has been an Argo since he entered the CFL and is dedicated to the Toronto community. He provides a great example to our younger players of how to be a true professional."

Toronto also agreed to terms with quarterback Jarious Jackson, according to a league source. Jackson spent seven seasons with the B.C. Lions before being released Feb. 1 and will back up veteran Ricky Ray.

Pile joined the Argos as a free agent in '07. Since then, he has registered 399 tackles, 42 special-teams tackles, 12 interceptions, 12 sacks, and 13 forced fumbles.

"I'm excited to re-sign with the Toronto Argonauts and I look forward to earning the trust and respect of my new coaching staff and teammates," Pile said. "Toronto has become my second home and I can't wait to see our fans and compete to bring them many wins this season.

"With (defensive co-ordinator) Chris Jones's track record coaching defences, I'm confident we can be both productive and dominant as a unit."