The Montreal Alouettes offered new contracts to running back Jeshrun Antwi, defensive lineman Avery Ellis and defensive back Najee Murray on Monday.
The three footballers who could have become free agents in February have signed one-year contracts.
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“We are thrilled to have these three veterans back with us,” Alouettes general manager Danny Maciocia said in a press release. As a Canadian, Jeshrun brings a lot to our education. He knows our playbook and his attitude is great. Ellis has played the role of big brother to many players in our locker room since 2022; The boys respect him. Murray was at the top before he got injured last year and we can't wait to see him again.
Antwi has been a member of the Sparrows since the 2021 season. Last year, he carried the ball 39 times and rushed for 229 yards and a touchdown in the regular season.
For his part, Ellis managed nine tackles and one quarterback sack in 13 games in 2023. He also totaled four tackles in his team's win in the Gray Cup game.
Ultimately, Murray's final season ended after just six games. During that time, he racked up 33 tackles and one interception, as well as recovering a fumble.
Of the 23 players on the Alouettes' 2023 roster who could have benefited from their autonomy in February, Maciocia has now returned nine. The remaining big names include running backs William Stanback and Walter Fletcher, defensive backs Ciante Evans and Najee Lyon, and offensive linemen Kristian Matte, Landon Rice, David Brown and Philippe Gagnon.
The Canadian Football League free agent market opens on February 13th.