Defensive reinforcement as BC Lions land C.J. Coldon

BC Lions have strengthened their secondary with the signing of American defensive back C.J. Coldon.

The 27-year-old joins the Lions after being released by the Ottawa Redblacks, where he featured in 17 games last season. Coldon started every game at cornerback, recording 55 defensive tackles, one special teams tackle, three interceptions, and a forced fumble.

Originally from Belleville, Illinois, Coldon first entered the CFL with the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2024 but was cut during final roster decisions. He later signed with Ottawa in September, making an immediate impact in his debut appearance.

Before his CFL career, Coldon spent time with the Minnesota Vikings after going undrafted in 2023, featuring on their practice squad. At the collegiate level, he earned All-Big 12 honourable mention honours with the University of Oklahoma in 2022 and was named second-team All-Mountain West while at the University of Wyoming in 2021.

The Lions have also added defensive lineman Casey Sayles and linebacker Darnell Sankey following their respective releases from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Montreal Alouettes.

Meanwhile, the club saw a key departure with All-CFL offensive lineman Jarell Broxton joining the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

Looking ahead, the Lions hold the seventh overall pick in the upcoming CFL Draft, with training camp set to begin in May. They will open their preseason schedule against the Edmonton Elks before kicking off the regular season against the Roughriders in June.