With the CFL offseason now underway, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats are starting to bring back some of their 2021 pieces. The team advanced to a second consecutive Grey Cup, but fell to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Now, with a few more players locked up, they’re starting the process of running it back in 2022 (and beyond).

Perhaps the most notable re-signing in recent weeks was All-Star safety Tunde Adeleke. The former Carleton University standout recorded 44 tackles, 6 pass deflections, 2 sacks, and 2 interceptions through 12 starts. The deal will keep Adeleke in Hamilton for the next two seasons, where he should continue to produce at a high level.

Another notable re-signing was wide receiver Papi White, who saw plenty of action on special teams last year. Additionally, he had a decent role in both the receiving and rushing game, similar to what is seen in the NFL with Deebo Samuel (just on a much smaller scale). White was a key contributor during the Eastern Final against Toronto, recording a 92-yard punt return touchdown to help give the Tiger-Cats a victory. In 2022, he will look to get more snaps on offense. 

A few other signings included OL Brandon Revenberg (All-Star), DL Valentin Gnahoua, and DL David Izinyon. Free agency can often be a stressful time for teams, but Hamilton made it clear they don’t want their guys going anywhere. So far, things have looked great, especially with Dane Evans returning. More news will come in the following weeks, with the most intriguing story likely involving Jeremiah Masoli and where he ends up.