The Tiger-Cat’s consistent theme for the 2024 free agency period has been building a more robust defence. Heading into free agency, Hamilton acquired CFL All-Star defensive back Jamal Peters, defensive lineman Brandon Barlow, and defensive lineman Dwayne Hendrix. They have also re-signed defensive lineman Mason Bennett and recently re-signed Jamal Davis II.

According to 3 Down Nation, the Tiger-Cats have strengthened their defence, specifically their defensive line, by signing American defensive end Nick Usher. During the 2023 season, Usher played five games with the Montreal Alouettes and then finished playing four for the BC Lions. While playing for the Alouettes, Usher recorded five tackles and one quarterback sack, and while playing with the Lions, he registered one defensive tackle.

Usher is a 29-year-old, 6’4″, 256-pound native of Los Angeles, California. The American defensive end started his CFL career in 2018 with Edmonton and during 2018, he played in 8 games and had seven tackles and one quarterback sack. In 2010, Usher played in 18 games for Edmonton and recorded 36 tackles and six quarterback sacks.

In 2021, Usher headed to Montreal, where he played in 33 games for the Alouettes, and then he joined the BC Lions after Montreal had released him during the 2023 season. During his CFL career, Usher has played in 62 games and has 118 defensive tackles, three special teams tackles, 16 quarterback sacks, and he forced six fumbles. Previously, Usher has spent time with the Seattle Seahawks, the New England Patriots, and the Las Vegas Raiders.

Before pursuing his professional football career, Usher played four seasons at the University of Texas at El Paso from 2013 until 2016. During his time with the Miners, Usher established himself as an effective pass rusher off the edge. Usher played in 49 games for UTEP, with 178 tackles and 11 quarterback sacks.

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