Tiger-Cats Adjust Defensive Depth Chart: Reactivate Key Linebacker and Release Defensive Lineman Ahead of 2024 Preseason Opener
As the Hamilton Tiger-Cats‘ first preseason game of 2024 swiftly approaches, the team continues to refine their defensive depth chart. In a notable move, the Tiger-Cats have reinstated American linebacker DQ Thomas to their active roster after placing him on the suspension list at the end of the first week of training camp. Additionally, the Tiger-Cats have released defensive lineman Jason Lewan.
During the CFL free agency period, the Tiger-Cats focused on revamping their defensive lineup. They not only signed several free agents but also traded with the Toronto Argonauts to acquire veteran linebacker Jordan Williams. Unfortunately for Hamilton, Williams decided to retire from the CFL before training camp began.
The retirement of iconic linebacker Simoni Lawrence and the unexpected departure of veteran Jordan Williams have presented a significant challenge for the Tiger-Cats: rebuilding their linebacker unit. Despite the daunting task, the team is determined to tackle it head-on. Heading into training camp, the Tiger-Cats signed linebacker DQ Thomas as a potential playmaker for their defensive front seven. On May 17th, Thomas was added to the suspension list.
However, Thomas’s stint on the suspension list was brief, giving him the opportunity to prove that he can help solidify the Tiger-Cats’ linebacking unit. His reinstatement to the active roster comes just in time for Hamilton to assess the Oxford, Mississippi native in their first preseason game against the Ottawa Redblacks.
The 6’2″, 216-pound linebacker joined the Tiger-Cats after spending time with the New York Jets and Green Bay Packers during the 2022 NFL season. Thomas played college football at Middle Tennessee State University from 2017 to 2021, appearing in 60 games. While with the Blue Raiders, he recorded 309 total tackles, 53 tackles for loss, 20.5 quarterback sacks, two interceptions, nine pass deflections, eight forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries.
