Hamilton Tiger-Cats American defensive back Javien Elliott has officially announced his retirement from the CFL through his Instagram account, as reported by Justin Dunk of 3 Down Nation. Elliott, who joined the Tiger-Cats on a two-year contract during the opening day of free agency in February 2023, will be concluding his tenure with the team alongside wide receiver Duke Williams and Sam linebacker Chris Edwards after the 2023 season.
Although Elliott spent just one season with the Tiger-Cats in 2023, he made a notable impact, appearing in 14 games, intercepting three passes, and tallying 32 total defensive tackles. Prior to his stint with Hamilton, Elliott played for the Calgary Stampeders during the 2021 and 2022 seasons, participating in five games and recording 12 total tackles.
Before venturing into the CFL, Elliott pursued a career in the NFL with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Carolina Panthers. He signed with the Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in 2016, where he played 36 games over three seasons, accumulating one interception and 39 total tackles. Following his time with Tampa Bay, Elliott joined the Carolina Panthers in 2019, contributing to 16 games with one interception, 38 total tackles, and half a quarterback sack.
A native of Panama City, Florida, Elliott honed his skills at Florida State University during the 2014 and 2015 seasons. Throughout his college career, which included 12 games played, he demonstrated his versatility by intercepting a pass, registering 37 total tackles, securing one quarterback sack, and forcing two fumbles. Initially a walk-on for Florida State after a year at Tallahassee Community College, Elliott earned a scholarship during his senior year.
As the Tiger-Cats embark on the 2024 free agency period, they have undergone significant changes to their defensive lineup, notably acquiring CFL All-Star defensive back Jamal Peters. While Elliott’s retirement may come as a surprise, the team’s proactive approach to roster adjustments ensures they can fill his position with one of the several defensive backs signed during the spring.
