The Four CFL teams that emerge for Adarius Pickett after veteran linebacker becomes free agent

Adarius Pickett Draws Interest From Four CFL Teams After Redblacks Release

Adarius Pickett now has multiple options after parting ways with the Ottawa Redblacks on Tuesday. The move, mutually agreed upon, makes the 29-year-old linebacker a free agent several weeks earlier than anticipated—he had been slated to hit free agency next month. Pickett, a three-time East Division All-CFL selection, is free to negotiate with any CFL team, and sources indicate at least four clubs have already expressed interest, though no deal has yet been finalized.

During his two seasons with Ottawa, Pickett appeared in 31 regular-season games, recording 164 total tackles—136 on defence—along with three sacks and two interceptions. He has also had stints with Toronto in 2023 and Montreal from 2021-22, giving him a wealth of CFL experience.

Pickett’s release comes less than a month after Ottawa acquired linebacker Nyles Morgan from Edmonton. With veterans Jovan Santos-Knox and Frankie Griffin also entering free agency, Redblacks GM and head coach Ryan Dinwiddie suggested the team is evaluating a potential three-down linebacker strategy. While Morgan is expected to compete for a starting role, Dinwiddie expressed appreciation for Santos-Knox and left the door open for his retention.

Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Other CFL Moves

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats have promoted Jarryd Baines from quarterback coach to offensive co-ordinator, handing him additional responsibilities for the team’s offence. Hamilton also added Canadian offensive lineman Chris Kolankowski, a seven-year CFL veteran recently released by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

Meanwhile, former Ticats linebacker Devin Veresuk has signed with the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts. Veresuk, who had 66 tackles, two sacks, an interception, and two touchdowns last season, was named East Division top rookie in 2025.

Other Player Movements

• B.C. Lions: The team secured a two-year deal with American defensive lineman Casey Sayles. The 30-year-old previously spent three seasons with Hamilton, totaling 122 tackles, 18 sacks, and a forced fumble in 51 games.

• Winnipeg Blue Bombers: GM Kyle Walters is taking a patient approach with Canadian quarterback Tayler Elgersma. The 2024 Hec Crighton Trophy winner, drafted 18th overall, has kept his NFL options open after attending multiple workouts and being cut by the Green Bay Packers.

• Saskatchewan Roughriders: Veteran kicker Brett Lauther remains with the Grey Cup champions for now, despite a subpar 2025 season. Lauther, 35, made 39 of 54 field-goal attempts, his lowest success rate in Saskatchewan. He is due a $25,000 roster bonus on Feb. 1.

• Toronto Argonauts: The team continues discussions with veteran linebacker Wynton McManis ahead of free agency next month. McManis, six-foot, 220 pounds, contributed 62 tackles, four sacks, two interceptions, and a forced fumble in 13 games last season. GM Mike Clemons expressed optimism about extending McManis’s stay in Toronto.

With multiple key players moving and free agents on the market, the CFL offseason is shaping up to be highly active, with teams making strategic decisions to strengthen rosters ahead of the 2026 campaign.