CFL Saskatchewan Roughriders

Riders sign two more

Published on January 26, 2007 under Canadian Football League (CFL)
Saskatchewan Roughriders News Release


Saskatchewan Roughrider General Manager/Vice President of Football Operations Eric Tillman announced today they have signed import offensive lineman Belton Johnson and import defensive back Michael Gholar to one year plus-an-option contracts. Financial details of the signings were not released.

"Belton and Michael are two quality young players who invested time on our developmental roster last season," said Tillman. "We view both as potential starters in 2007 and we look forward to seeing if they take that next step via competition in training camp."

Johnson, a 6'5 315 lb offensive lineman, was originally signed by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2003. He then made the shift to the CFL last season when he signed a free agent deal with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. He also spent time on the Riders' developmental roster for a portion of the 2006 season. The Mississippi College product played four seasons with Ole Miss where he was a key protector of standout quarterback Eli Manning.

Gholar, who spent five years at Mississippi State, the first four as a basketball player, was granted a final year of eligibility to play football in 2002. The 6'4 defensive back played in 11 games and started in eight where he had 66 tackles, three sacks, led team with nine tackles for losses and had one interception returned for a touchdown. During his first play as a college football player blocked a 48-yard field goal attempt. Last season Gholar spent time on the Riders' developmental roster.

Check out the Saskatchewan Roughriders Statistics

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



Canadian Football League Stories from January 26, 2007


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central