The theme of January 2025 for the Tiger-Cats is that they are aware that they need to get more playmakers on the defensive side of the ball. Recently, Hamilton has acquired several defensive linemen and defensive backs and re-worked the contracts of defensive backs Stavros Katsantonis and Jamal Peters. All signs point to the Tiger-Cats using their assets to improve their defence during free agency next month. However, that did not stop Hamilton from acquiring as many defensive players as possible before the CFL’s free agency period started.

The Tiger-Cats recently acquired American defensive back Josh DeBerry, and according to the CFL Transactions list, the Tiger-Cats’ most recent roster addition is another American defensive back. Defensive back Zamari Walton comes to the Tiger-Cats roster after spending time with the Los Angeles Chargers during the 2024 NFL season. At 6’3″ and 185 pounds, Walton brings a long frame to the Tiger-Cats cornerback position group.

Before being signed as an undrafted free agent by the Chargers, the Melbourne, Florida, native played college football at Georgia Tech and the University of Mississippi. Walton’s college football career started at Georgia Tech, where he played in 49 games for the Yellow Jackets from 2018 until 2022. During that time, Walton recorded 87 solo tackles, 37 assisted tackles, one quarterback sack, three interceptions, and one fumble recovery, which he returned for a defensive touchdown.

After the 2022 season, Walton transferred to the University of Mississippi to play his sixth college football season. While playing for the Rebels, Walton played in 13 games, and he registered 23 solo tackles, 15 assisted tackles, two interceptions, and one forced fumble. Walton’s extensive experience at an elite level of college football in the ACC and SEC should allow him to compete for a position on the Tiger-Cats 2025 roster.

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