One of the biggest questions swirling around the Tiger-Cats fan base this off-season has been, Will the Tiger-Cats extend the contract of iconic Tiger-Cats linebacker Simoni Lawrence? Today, Lawrence answered that question by announcing his retirement from the CFL.

Simoni Lawrence has been a defensive fixture during his 11 seasons in the CFL. Ten of his seasons have been with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, interrupted only by the 2012 season in which Lawrence played one season for Edmonton. Lawrence ends his playing career as the all-time leader in tackles for the Tiger-Cats with 732 total tackles with Hamilton, 727 defensive tackles, and the single-game tackles record with 17 tackles. Along with being an outstanding player on the field for Hamilton, he has been an incredible force in creating connections with the Hamilton community.

Lawrence’s retirement ends his playing career in the CFL. Still, the Tiger-Cats have given him a position in the Hamilton Sports Group as their new Brand and Community Ambassador, according to the Tiger-Cats Twitter account. This new job title will allow Lawrence to remain an outstanding representative for the Tiger-Cats.

Before coming to Hamilton, Davis II played 33 games with the Montreal Alouettes after signing with Montreal in 2021. Davis II played in 18 games in 2023 with Hamilton and Montreal and registered 26 defensive tackles and five quarterback sacks. During his career with the Alouettes, Davis II recorded 53 defensive tackles, two special teams tackles, 11 quarterback sacks, and forced one fumble. Along with playing for Montreal, Davis II spent time with the Houston Texans (2019), Miami Dolphins (2019), and the Los Angeles Chargers (2023).

The 6’4″, 250-pound defensive lineman played college football at the University of Pittsburgh (2014-2015) and the University of Akron (2016-2017). While at Pittsburgh, Davis II played ten games and recorded one tackle. While at Akron, he had 63 tackles and two quarterback sacks while playing in 13 games.

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