Calgary Stampeders have announced the extension of American offensive lineman Joshua Coker’s tenure with a two-year contract that locks him in until the end of the 2025 season. This move, confirmed on Wednesday, averts Coker’s entry into free agency, which was expected to happen in February.
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Coker’s contribution to the Stampeders has been notable – in his 2023 season, he took to the field for 12 regular-season outings, establishing himself as the primary right tackle in 11 of those games. During his time on the line, the team experienced a boost in protection, conceding a mere 24 sacks, placing Calgary with the third-lowest such statistic across the league. In the pivotal Western Semi-Final, Coker served in the capacity of a backup.
The offensive lineman’s journey with the Stampeders started when he signed with the team in 2020, following which he joined the practice roster for an eight-week period in 2021. Coker’s first CFL action came during the 2022 season when he started in two matches as the right tackle.
Bef
ore his tenure with the Stampeders, Coker made his first professional foray with the NFL’s Houston Texans, joining them as an undrafted free agent in 2019. Reflecting on his college career, Coker displayed consistent excellence during his time at Rhodes College. Over four seasons and 24 games, he demonstrated his prowess on the field, earning the American Football Coaches Association Division III Coaches All-American honors and securing first-team all-Southern Athletic Association recognition in his last two years with the Lynx.
The Stampeders’ commitment to Coker is indicative of their strategy to maintain a robust and effective offensive line, essential for the team’s success in upcoming seasons. Fans and followers of the CFL can anticipate further updates as the league progresses towards the 2024 season, and teams firm up their rosters in preparation for the challenges ahead.
