The BC Lions Football Club today announced that they have granted early free agent status to defensive back Anthony Gaitor and defensive lineman Alex Bazzie enabling both players to sign with NFL teams.
“Alex developed into a very effective pass rusher and every-down player for our defence over his three seasons here and Anthony helped us last season when we had some key injuries in our secondary. We wish them the very best as they move forward into the next phase of their football careers,” said GM and head coach Wally Buono.
Gaitor is slated to join former teammate Adam Bighill with the New Orleans Saints, while Bazzie is joining the Indianapolis Colts. After being cut from the Lions at the end of training camp, Gaitor was re-signed by the Lions in July when injuries battered the team’s secondary.
In 11 games, he recorded 35 defensive tackles and had a game-clinching interception return for a touchdown against Ottawa on October 1st.
Bazzie made life difficult for opposing QB’s all season, recording 31 defensive stops and a career-high 11 sacks in 2016. He was rewarded with his first CFL Western Division All-Star selection.