Ottawa Redblacks sign two members of their defence

OTTAWA – The Ottawa Redblacks have signed two key American defensive players to one-year extensions.

The reigning East Division champs inked defensive lineman Jonathan Newsome and defensive back Sherrod Baltimore to deals on Thursday.

Despite missing some time because of injury, Newsome had eight defensive tackles and a sack in eight games for the Redblacks last season. Newsome broke into the CFL with the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2016 and signed with the Redblacks the following year after being cut by his former club.

Baltimore, the Redblacks’ top rookie in 2017, had two interceptions in the regular season and two more in the playoffs in 2018.

“Jonathan and Sherrod have proven to be solid contributors to the Redblacks both on and off the field,” general manager Marcel Desjardins said in a statement. “We appreciate their desire to remain in Ottawa to continue their careers.”

Meanwhile, the reigning Grey Cup champion Calgary Stampeders signed two Canadians — defensive back Zacary Alexis and linebacker Brad Friesen.