Montreal Alouettes sign veteran kicker Lewis Ward, release WR Brooks
The Montreal Alouettes have signed veteran kicker Lewis Ward, according to multiple reports, marking a shift in the team’s special teams strategy. Ward, who previously played for the Ottawa Redblacks, joins the CFL club as part of a roster adjustment that also includes the release of wide receiver Deon Long, as confirmed by TSN and 3DownNation.
Who is Lewis Ward, and why is this move significant?
Lewis Ward, 32, has been a consistent presence in the CFL since 2016, known for his accuracy and reliability. Over his career, he has made 83.3% of his field goals, according to the CFL’s official stats page. His addition to the Alouettes comes after a season where the team struggled with special teams, particularly in high-pressure situations. The move is seen as a direct response to those challenges, with CFL.ca noting that Ward’s experience could stabilize the unit.
What does this mean for the Alouettes’ roster?
The Alouettes’ decision to sign Ward and release Deon Long highlights a strategic pivot. Long, who had 35 receptions in 2023, was let go to make room for the kicker, according to TSN. This move aligns with the team’s focus on strengthening its special teams, a unit that ranked 8th in the league in net punting and 10th in kickoff coverage last season.
How does Ward’s signing compare to previous CFL moves?
Ward’s contract details remain undisclosed, but his signing follows a trend of CFL teams prioritizing veteran special teams players. In 2022, the Saskatchewan Roughriders signed kicker Paul McCallum, a similar move aimed at improving consistency. Unlike McCallum’s situation, however, Ward’s arrival is tied to a direct replacement, as the Alouettes had not yet signed a kicker for the 2024 season.
What’s next for the Alouettes?
With Ward on board, the Alouettes will focus on finalizing their practice squad, as reported by CFL.ca. The team’s head coach, Jason Maas, emphasized the importance of “building depth” in a statement released Tuesday. Fans will be watching closely to see if the changes translate to improved performance in the 2024 season, which begins in June.