Argos Sign Free Agents Murphy, Picard
Published on February 17, 2009 under Canadian Football League (CFL)
Toronto Argonauts News Release
Mississauga - The Toronto Argonauts Football Club has entered the free agent market in a big way as 310-pound offensive tackle Rob Murphy and 302-pound offensive lineman Dominic Picard have signed deals with the team. As per team policy, details of the contracts will not be disclosed.
Arguably the biggest, toughest and meanest offensive lineman in the CFL, Murphy was the CFL's Most Outstanding Lineman in 2006 & 2007, named a CFL All-Star at offensive tackle in both 2006 & 2007 and is a three-time West Division All-Star at offensive tackle (2006-08). His reputation as a hard-nosed player has not affected his durability since he has missed only four regular season games in the last three seasons. The 31-year old former Ohio State Buckeye has been a lynchpin in the BC Lions' offence over the last three seasons. The Leos have consistently been among the best at keeping defences away from their quarterback, allowing just 33 sacks last season.
Argonauts GM/Vice President, Football Operations, Adam Rita enthused about Murphy, "It's about damn time! The last time he became a free agent, we wanted him to come to Toronto and we couldn't get the deal done. In the meantime, he has gotten two player awards. We feel like we've upgraded our team with the best player in the league at his position."
Rob Murphy commented, "It's been a good run in BC but with the birth of the triplets this year, it has changed our priorities and we wanted to be closer to where we live in the US. Toronto is a great situation with a new coach. I'm anxious to meet my new teammates and catch up with guys on the team I know who I played with south of the border."
Affectionately dubbed 'the angry Frenchman' by teammates, Picard will bring his high intensity and fighting spirit to the centre of the offensive line. Known as a fiery, emotional, and physical player, the Laval product won two Vanier Cups and the J.P. Metras Trophy as top lineman in the CIS. Picard is entering his fourth year in the CFL where he has been a core member of the Winnipeg Blue Bomber o-line.
Commented Rita, "We're thrilled to have Dominic join the Toronto Argonauts. We've known him since his college days and we like his toughness, his quickness off the ball and his tenacious play. We think this will bode well for our offensive line. His play will help us get to and win to the Grey Cup. We expect him to be in Double Blue for many years to come."
Dominic Picard remarked, "I'm very excited about joining this organization and I can't wait to start the season. It is a lot closer to home for me and the organization really seemed like they wanted me. They have made me feel very welcome."
Canadian Football League Stories from February 17, 2009
- Bombers ship Jason Nugent to Edmonton for Brock Ralph - Winnipeg Blue Bombers
- Argos Sign Free Agents Murphy, Picard - Toronto Argonauts
- Ticats Ink Free Agent Matt Kirk - Hamilton Tiger-Cats
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