CFL games are won and lost on the line of scrimmage, and every season, the teams with the best defensive and offensive lines consistently find themselves in the Grey Cup championship game. As the Hamilton Tiger-Cats use the offseason to look for any edge they can find to get back to the Grey Cup, they are working to upgrade their offensive and defensive lines. Recently, the Tiger-Cats added American offensive lineman Julian Pearl and American defensive lineman Brandon Bowen.

However, the reality of battling in the trenches in the CFL is that most teams face attrition along their offensive and defensive lines throughout the long CFL season. Therefore, Hamilton needs to continue using their resources to stack as much talent as possible on both lines of scrimmage. With that in mind, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats have signed American defensive end Dawson Scott, according to a press release and the CFL Transactions list.

Dawson Scott is a 6’4″, 250-pound defensive end from Mexia, Texas. Scott played college football at Southern Arkansas University from 2021 until 2024. During his time with the Muleriders, Scott played in 41 games and recorded 156 total tackles, 26 quarterback sacks, 38 tackles for loss, 6 forced fumbles, 4 pass deflections, and 2 fumble recoveries.

While playing in college, Scott established himself as an elite pass rusher at the NCAA Division II level. Scott brings a prototypical frame for a CFL defensive end, proven ability to force turnovers, and a high motor. For Scott to turn his physical talent into CFL success, he is going to have to step up his game with improved technique and fundamentals, including improving his use of his hands while rushing the passer rather than simply being a pure speed rusher.

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