The BC Lions announced Tuesday the signing of American WR Jaelon Darden. Darden brings 4 years of NFL experience primarily as a return specialist. He finished his collegiate career as North Texas’s all-time leading receiver.
Jaelon Darden – North Texas (5’9, 175 lbs)
Darden was a 4th round pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2021 NFL Draft. He played in 21 games with Tampa (2021-2022), 10 games with the Cleveland Browns (2022-2024), and 5 games with the Seattle Seahawks (2024). He has returned 34 NFL kickoffs (22.57 average) and 88 punts (9.49 average).
Darden caught 9 passes for 75 yards over his time in the NFL, primarily contributing on special teams.
“Jaelon gives Buck’s offence another playmaker at wide receiver and another elite option in the return game for our special teams unit,” stated Lions General Manager Ryan Rigmaiden. “Adding explosive players to the roster is always a priority, and we’re excited to have him.”
Darden played his college ball with North Texas from 2017 through 2020, playing in 47 games with 23 starts. He caught 230 passes for 2,782 yards and 38 touchdowns. He finished his NCAA career as the all-time leader in the program’s history in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. His 1,190 yards in 2020 were the second most in the program’s history.
He was recognized as a First Team All-American by Pro Football Focus and the Football Writers Association of America in 2020.
