The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have released defensive lineman Faith Ekakitie after one season, the team announced Saturday.

Ekakitie was the first overall pick in the 2017 CFL Draft, and made just five tackles in 14 games during his rookie year. He was expected to compete for a starting job along the Blue Bombers' defensive line, but the team reportedly wanted to see him in better shape.

The Blue Bombers will save $62,000 in base salary by cutting Ekakitie.