Calgary Stampeders Lock in Linemen on Multi-Year Contracts
Linemen have the most physical jobs in football, taking hits on every play. The Calgary Stampeders understand their importance to the game as they are bringing back two players who help on offense and defense.
The Stampeders recently agreed to two-year contract extensions for offensive lineman Bryce Bell and defensive lineman Mike Rose.
Bell started nine of the 12 games he appeared in during the 2023 season. He showed his versatility starting five at left tackle and four at right tackle. The offensive line allowed 24 sacks on the year, which was third best in the league.
“We look forward to seeing Bryce take the next step in his CFL development,” Stampeders general manager and coach Dave Dickenson said. “He’s shown that when given the opportunity, he can excel and we think he can be a big part of our success in the future.”
A former second-round pick in the 2021 CFL Draft, Bell played in 43 games and three playoff games in three seasons. He made starts at both tackle positions as well as center.
Rose is coming off a career season with Calgary, racking up 11 sacks with 24 defensive tackles and one forced fumble in 18 games.
“Mike makes us a better team,” Dickenson said. “He’s consistently been one of our best players and one of the top defensive linemen in the league and we need him to continue that going into 2024.”
The North Carolina State product has played for Calgary in all six seasons in the CFL, totaling 73 games played. Rose has recorded 129 total tackles, 30 sacks, three forced fumbles and one interception. He has been a CFL All-Star three years in a row.
“I’m here to turn the tide because I didn’t like the way things went last season,” Rose added in his statement. “I want to help build a culture and win games.”
Calgary also re-signed long-time kicker Rene Paredes and defensive back Malcolm Thompson recently.
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