3 Key Points

• Hamilton Tiger-Cats secure Canadian linebacker Jordan Williams in a trade with the Toronto Argonauts.
• The trade involves a significant exchange of eight draft picks between the two teams for the 2024 and 2025 CFL Drafts.
• Williams reunites with GM Ed Hervey in Hamilton, marking a significant addition to the Tiger-Cats’ defense.

Trade Details

The Canadian Football League witnessed a noteworthy trade as the Hamilton Tiger-Cats acquired linebacker Jordan Williams from the Toronto Argonauts, along with multiple draft picks. This strategic move not only strengthens Hamilton’s defensive roster but also shakes up the draft picks line-up for both teams.

Toronto’s gain in this exchange includes Hamilton’s fifth overall first-round pick and two third-round picks (24th and 25th overall) in the upcoming 2024 CFL Draft. Adding to this, the Argonauts secure a conditional third-round pick for the 2025 CFL Draft and negotiation rights to American receiver Deontay Burnett.

In return, the Tiger-Cats receive the Argonauts’ seventh overall first-round, 16th overall second-round, and 36th overall fourth-round picks in the 2024 CFL Draft, topped off with a conditional fourth-round pick for the same year.

Williams’ Impact and Legacy

Jordan Williams has made a significant impact during his tenure with the Argonauts, registering 48 defensive tackles and four special teams tackles last season. His CFL journey began as the first overall pick in the 2020 CFL Draft by the B.C. Lions, where he made 181 defensive tackles, 12 special teams tackles, one sack, one interception, and three forced fumbles.

The 29-year-old linebacker, born in Baltimore, MD, enjoys Canadian status through his mother’s Canadian citizenship. His collegiate career at East Carolina University was impressive, tallying 251 total tackles, 13 tackles for loss, three sacks, two forced fumbles, five pass knockdowns, and one interception.

Reunion in Hamilton

This trade marks a reunion for Williams with General Manager Ed Hervey, who was at the helm in B.C. at the time Williams was drafted. Hervey, having recently taken over as GM of the Tiger-Cats, played a pivotal role in bringing Williams into the Hamilton fold, signifying a strategic move aimed at revamping the team’s defensive line-up.

Deontay Burnett, the other player mentioned in the trade, has had stints with several NFL teams and was named All-XFL as a member of the Houston Roughnecks, showcasing his potential to make an impact in the CFL.