THE CANADIAN PRESS
MONTREAL — Offensive lineman Paul Lambert and veteran linebacker Diamond Ferri have both agreed to multi-year contracts with the Montreal Alouettes, opting to remain with the defending Grey Cup champions instead of testing the free agent market next month.
Lambert, heading into his eighth season with the team, signed a one-year deal with an option. The 34-year-old played in 13 games last season, one in which quarterback Anthony Calvillo remained upright long enough to lead the league by completing 72 per cent of his passes en route to being named the CFL’s most outstanding player.
"I’m very happy with this contract. As a Montrealer, it’s amazing for me to be able to play at home with the Alouettes," Lambert, a two-time East Division all-star, said in a release Friday. "I know I can contribute to the offensive line, and if everything goes as planned, I’ll be doing this for a few more years to come."
Ferri, who signed for two years plus an option, has started in 46 games with the Alouettes since signing with the team three years ago. He recorded a pair of tackles in last fall’s dramatic Grey Cup win over the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
"It’s great to be back with the Alouettes," Ferri said. "I’m looking forward to joining forces with my teammates to play in front of the best fans in a new stadium this season."
The team did not reveal the financial details of either contract.
"Paul is a great contributor to our team, both on and off the field, and he will continue to play a major role as one of our starting offensive linemen," Als general manager Jim Popp said. "Diamond is one of the most physical players on our team and he gives our defence an edge other teams don’t have."
