The Saskatchewan Roughriders have signed American linebacker C.J. Avery.

The five-foot-eleven, 230-pound backer went unselected in the 2022 NFL draft, later signing with the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent. In 2023, Avery played in the XFL for the Vegas Vipers. He started in all 10 games recording 62 tackles. Also, the Grenada, Mississippi native signed with the Montreal Alouettes this past January but was later waived.

Collegiately, the 25-year-old played five seasons for the University of Louisville. Across 54 games, he recorded 349 tackles (including 20 tackles for loss), nine sacks, three interceptions, 16 pass deflections, two forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries. Also, he was named Louisville’s top defensive player in 2019.

Avery will join rookie American linebackers in KD Davis, Zakoby McClain, and Diego Fagot in training camp competing for playing time.