The Montreal Alouettes have signed American running back AJ Rose.
• Also read: Eugene Lewis would also leave the Alouettes
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This was announced by General Manager Danny Maciocia in a press release on Monday.
The 25-year-old had a stellar college career with the University of Kentucky Wildcats. In 44 games, including 24 as a starter, he rushed for 1,971 yards and 13 touchdowns on 341 carries. He also caught 24 throws for 233 yards and a major.
After being passed over by all 32 NFL teams in the 2021 draft, the Cleveland native worked on the Minnesota Vikings practice team. He also attended Los Angeles Rams training camp last year.
“We’re delighted to add such an explosive and exciting player as AJ to our roster. He was highly recommended to us by our former player Anwar Stewart, who trains with the University of Kentucky Wildcats. We can’t wait to see him on Canadian soil this spring,” said Maciocia.
Rose’s addition to the “Sparrows” lineup comes less than 24 hours before the free agent market opens in the Canadian League. In the group of Alouettes running backs from last season, there is only Walter Fletcher who could be free on Tuesday. In fact, William Stanback and Jeshrun Antwi should be back in 2023, they have valid agreements for this season.
The Alouettes release Mike Moore
The Montreal Alouettes decided to end their association with defensive tackle Mike Moore on Monday
The 29-year veteran addressed the issue on his social media.
“I want to thank the Montreal Alouettes for the past season and for allowing me to continue to be a professional athlete in the sport I love. I wish all the boys the best of luck. It was a pleasure playing with you. Now to the next step in my football career and looking for a new team,” he wrote on his digital platforms.
Alouette’s general manager Danny Maciocia acquired Moore from the Edmonton Elks in January 2022. In return, he traded offensive lineman Tony Washington and running back Martese Jackson.
Before spending his senior year with the Sparrows, Moore played four seasons with the Alberta Club and one season with the Ottawa Redblacks.
The American had 31 tackles, six quarterback sacks and forced a fumble in 18 regular season games with the Montreal organization. He also had eight tackles and a sack in two playoff games.
Avery Williams arrives
The Alouettes also announced that they have signed linebacker Avery Williams.
The 28-year-old American was released by Rouge et Noir last Saturday after spending four seasons with the Ottawa team.
“We are pleased to add a player of Avery’s caliber to our defensive line-up, having previously played under our defensive coordinator Noel Thorpe,” Maciocia said in a statement. Not only are we adding a good player to our roster, we’re also adding an excellent teammate.
Last year, Williams finished fourth in defensive tackles in the CHL (92). He also had two sacks, forced two fumbles and had an interception in 18 games.
Reggie White son rest
In addition, Maciocia wide receiver Reggie White Jr. has offered a contract extension. However, the organization did not disclose the terms of this new agreement.
The Maryland native joined the Alouettes in 2021 after briefly playing in the New York Giants’ practice roster in 2019. White Jr. was limited to 15 games in 2022 due to a knee injury. Before he was injured, he had his hands on 53 balls for 722 yards and two touchdowns.