The Ottawa Redblacks re-signed offensive lineman Drew Desjarlais to a two-year contract extension through the 2026 season on Thursday.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to stay in Ottawa, and continue to build on the success that we’ve had this year,” said Desjarlais. “The chance to remain a part of this group, and keep playing in front of RNation is super exciting.”
Drew Desjarlais is six foot two and weighs 314 pounds. The 27-year-old from Belle River, Ontario, has started 13 games for the Redblacks in 2024. Through 15 weeks, Ottawa is ranked second in average passing yards (294.0), third in average net offense (362.0), sixth in average rushing yards (89.2), seventh in offensive points (23.9), touchdowns (29), sacks allowed (28), and eighth in turnovers (32).
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.
Next, Desjarlais signed with the New England Patriots on January 27, 2022. He was released on August 30, 2022, and signed with the New Orleans Saints on September 1, 2022. The Saints released him on January 4, 2023.
The Ottawa Redblacks signed Desjarlais on January 30, 2023. He started 13 games for Ottawa in 2023. Ottawa ranked sixth in points per game (20.7), tied seventh in touchdowns (33), ninth in net offense (318.8), ninth in quarterback rating (82.1), tied eighth in turnovers (47), ninth in sacks allowed (71), and second in average rushing yards (127.6).
Collegiately, Desjarlais played four seasons at the University of Windsor (2015-18) playing left guard and right guard in 27 games for the Lancers.
