The Ottawa Redblacks signed former Winnipeg Blue Bombers offensive lineman Drew Desjarlais to a two-year contract through the 2024 season on Monday. The 25-year-old from Belle River, Ontario, spent time with the New England Patriots and the New Orleans Saints practice squad.
“I am extremely excited to join the Ottawa Redblacks, and to start playing at TD Place in front of the dedicated fans,” said Desjarlais. “I’m looking forward to working alongside a great group of teammates, and after speaking with Coach Dyce, Shawn Burke, Coach Charbonneau, and Coach Jones, it was clear that there is a great plan for this team and I wanted to be a part of it.”
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers drafted Desjarlais in the first round (4th pick) in the 2019 CFL Draft. He played 32 games at left guard for the Blue Bombers winning two Grey Cup Championships and was named a 2021 CFL All West All-Star. Collegiately, Desjarlais played 27 games in four seasons at the University of Windsor Lancers (2015-18) at left guard and right guard.
“We believe in building our team in the trenches and bringing in Drew Desjarlais underscores that philosophy,” said Redblacks General Manager Shawn Burke. “Drew is an all-star caliber guard who will add skill, strength, and youth to our offensive line. We thank Drew for his belief in our program and we’re excited that he’s chosen to make Ottawa home.”
