The BC Lions released American linebacker Josh Woods on Monday in a move that disappointed some fans. Woods was set to become a free agent in February, but was granted a head start on free agency following his release.

Woods’ release comes mere days after the signing of linebacker Darnell Sankey on Friday.

Josh Woods – UCLA (6’2, 235lbs)

This past season, Woods played in 14 games, recording 62 defensive tackles and a sack. He added 10 tackles in the 2 playoff games and had a pass defended. By my count, he was in on 4 shared run stops and a solo pass stop. He was the 4th highest graded linebacker by Pro Football Focus in the CFL Semi-Final week.

His CFL career began with BC, playing 2 games in 202,1 recording 1 tackle, and then 17 games in 2022, recording 23 tackles.

Woods had a breakout year in 202,3 playing in 18 games and getting his first 4 starts. He recorded 45 tackles, 2 interceptions, and a touchdown in 2023.

He was set for his first season beginning as a starter in 2024, but the season was cut short to injury in the form of a torn ACL after 4 games in which he made 21 tackles.

Woods seemed to be ramping back up gradually in 2025 after coming back from an ACL-tear. He could be well on his way to a dominant 2026, though the jersey he will wear is yet to be determined.

Woods played for UCLA from 2015 to 2019, where he appeared in 32 games with 24 starts. He recorded 68 solo tackles, 39 assisted tackles, 5.5 sacks, and an interception over his collegiate career.