The Calgary Stampeders are getting a huge piece of their defence back just ahead of the season opener.
Defensive lineman Jaylon Hutchings has signed a three-year deal with the club, the Stampeders announced Sunday.
Hutchings, 26, signed a reserve/futures contract with the Minnesota Vikings in January, but was waived by the NFL club in April.
The six-foot, 300-pound Texas Tech product was a CFL all-star last season in his first full year in the league.
Last season, he started 17 games and had 39 defensive tackles, including three tackles for loss, eight sacks, one fumble recovery, one forced fumble and two knockdowns. Hutchings also had a pair of sacks and a touchdown in a West semifinal loss to the B.C. Lions.
“It’s great to have Hutch back,” Stampeders general manager/head coach Dave Dickenson said in a statement. “For him to make a three-year commitment to us is a huge deal. He was a force up front for us last season and his return will further bolster our defence and make us a better team.”
The Stampeders open their season Friday against the visiting Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
