Stampeders release LB Nate Holley so he can pursue NFL opportunities

Calgary Stampeders linebacker Nate Holley poses with the trophy for the most outstanding rookie award at the CFL Awards. (Nathan Denette/CP)

Sportsnet Staff August 19, 2020, 2:20 PM

The Calgary Stampeders have granted linebacker Nate Holley his release in order to allow him to pursue opportunities in the NFL.

Holley was named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Rookie in 2019 after recording 100 tackles, including 78 defensively while adding three pass knockdowns, a sack and an interception in all 18 games.

NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that Holley was drawing interest from teams after the 2020 CFL season was cancelled.

The reigning CFL Most Outstanding Rookie, Calgary LB Nate Holley, is expected to have NFL workouts now that the Canadian season has been canceled, per source. Former Kent State star, who had brief stints with the #Vikings and #Rams, awaiting final clearance. He’ll have a market.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 17, 2020

Before joining Calgary, the 25-year-old spent time signed with the Los Angeles Rams in 2018 but was released at the end of training camp. The former Kent State start was also signed by the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent after not being selected in the 2017 NFL but did not make the final roster.

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