As the Hamilton Tiger-Cat’s first preseason game of 2024 quickly approaches, Hamilton continues to adjust their defensive depth chart. In a significant move, the Tiger-Cats have reactivated American linebacker DQ Thomas back to their active roster after moving him to the suspension list at the end of the first week of training camp. In addition to reactivating Thomas, the Tiger-Cats have also released defensive lineman Jason Lewan.

During the CFL free agency period, the Tiger-Cats focused on changing their defensive depth chart. Along with adding several free agents on defense, the Tiger-Cats also made a trade with the Toronto Argonauts to obtain veteran linebacker Jordan Williams. Unfortunately for the Tiger-Cats, Williams decided to retire from the CFL before the start of training.

With the retirement of iconic Tiger-Cats linebacker Simoni Lawrence and the unexpected departure of veteran Jordan Williams, Hamilton has faced a significant challenge—the need to rebuild their linebacker unit. Though daunting, this task is one that the team is determined to tackle head-on. Coming into training camp, the Tiger-Cats signed linebacker DQ Thomas as a potential playmaker to add to their defensive front seven. On May 17th, the Tiger-Cats added Thomas to the suspension list.

Thomas’s time on the suspension list was short-lived, giving Thomas a chance to demonstrate that he has what the Tiger-Cats need to solidify their linebacking unit. Adding Thomas to the active roster comes just in time for the Tiger-Cats to evaluate the Oxford, Mississippi native in their first preseason game against the Ottawa Redblacks.

The 6’2″, 216-pound linebacker joined the Tiger-Cats roster after spending time with the New York Jets and Green Bay Packers during the 2022 NFL season. Thomas played college football at Middle Tennessee State University from 2017 until 2021. While playing for the Blue Raiders, Thomas played in 60 games. He recorded 309 total tackles, 53 tackles for loss, 20.5 quarterback sacks, two interceptions, nine pass deflections, eight forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries.

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