The BC Lions Football Club has announced the signing of international offensive linemen Rogers Gaines and Antonio Johnson this morning.
“We feel these players give us added depth for training camp,” says director of football operations and player personnel Neil McEvoy. “They have the skill set to possibly make the team and both have the proven ability to play at the pro level.”
Gaines was a free agent signing of the Baltimore Ravens and also spent time with the Chicago Bears and New York Giants in 2013 and 2014. The Tennessee State grad was an Ohio Valley All-Conference selection as a senior in 2013 and appeared in 30 career games for the Tigers, 18 as a starter.
Johnson joins the Lions after signing with the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in May 2015 and attending training camp with the club. After being waived by the Saints last September, he spent short stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Dallas Cowboys and Denver Broncos.
“These players will help develop a good competition at camp and improve the culture of our offensive line,” says Dan Dorazio. “It is beneficial to have this experience because they have been to NFL camps and played in games. They can also provide leadership for the rookies who are just stepping in for the first time.”
Both Gaines and Johnson will get their first BC Lions experience at mini camp in Surrey starting April 28. They will also be on hand at first-year Lions player camp beginning May 26th in Kamloops.