Ottawa Redblacks recruit Quarterback Matt Morrissey, along with four other players

The Ottawa Redblacks have been making moves in the off-season, announcing several significant signings and releases as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Firstly, the Redblacks have added American quarterback Matt Morrissey to their roster. Morrissey, who played 13 collegiate games at Eastern Kentucky University last season, brings a wealth of experience to the team. Prior to Eastern Kentucky, he played at Western Illinois University, the University of Northern Iowa, and Trinity Valley Community College, where he threw for 3,663 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, and scored 4 times on the ground.

In addition, the Redblacks have signed Canadian offensive lineman David Knevel. Knevel, who was selected in the third round of the 2018 CFL Draft, played 72 career games as a member of the B.C. Lions before becoming a free agent in February. He remained available until the Redblacks came calling.

The Redblacks have also bolstered their defensive line with the addition of Pettway Jr. The American defensive lineman played 13 collegiate games at the University of South Florida in 2024, recording 56 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, one fumble recovery, and two pass breakups. Pettway Jr. previously played at Florida Atlantic University and the University of Missouri.

Meanwhile, Puryear, a Canadian defensive back, has been an All-ACC honorable mention at the University of Louisville in 2024. He made 87 total tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss, nine sacks, one pass deflection, one interception, and five fumble recoveries in five seasons with the University of Louisville.

However, the Redblacks have also seen some departures. They have released American receiver Easop Winston, American defensive lineman Eric Black, Canadian defensive back Tysen-Otis Copeland, and American defensive back Alijah McGhee. McGhee made five starts this season, recording 22 defensive tackles, three special teams tackles, one interception, and one touchdown.

Appolon, a Canadian linebacker, has also seen a change in teams. Originally a fifth-round pick of the Redblacks in the 2022 CFL Draft, his rights were traded to the Edmonton Elks in 2023. Appolon has recorded five special teams tackles over 17 career CFL games.

With these new additions and departures, the Ottawa Redblacks are shaping up to be a formidable force in the upcoming CFL season.

Ottawa Redblacks recruit Quarterback Matt Morrissey, along with four other players