Ben Archibald announces retirement while Lions release Anton McKenzie

VANCOUVER – Offensive lineman Ben Archibald has retired, the B.C. Lions announced Friday.

The CFL club has also released veteran linebacker Anton McKenzie.

Archibald spent three seasons with B.C. after signing as a free agent in 2011. He began his CFL career with the Calgary Stampeders in ’08.

Overall, Archibald appeared in 102 career regular-season games, six playoff contests and two Grey Cup victories (’08 with Calgary, ’11 with B.C.).

“I was very blessed to enjoy a great CFL career,” Archibald said in a statement. “I am grateful for the opportunity to have played for two great organizations in Calgary and B.C. and I will always treasure the memories from my time in the CFL.”

Added Lions GM Wally Buono: “Ben brought a quiet professionalism to the B.C. Lions and he was a great example of the complete player; good on the field, good in the dressing room and a great role model as a husband, father and teammate. We wish him and his family the very best in the future.”

McKenzie spent five seasons with B.C., appearing in 69 regular-season games. He began his CFL career with the Saskatchewan Roughriders and earned Grey Cup rings with both clubs (’07 with Saskatchewan, ’11 with B.C.)

“Anton gave everything he had each and every time he had the opportunity to do so,” Lions head coach Mike Benevides said. “He has a very bright future ahead of him and we’re grateful for his services as a Lion.”