The Hamilton Tiger-Cats had plenty of needs to address this off-season. But on the opening day of the Tiger-Cats Free Agency, this football club made a profound statement.

Earlier this Tuesday afternoon, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats signed a formidable defensive back, Abdul Kanneh. In 2016, Kanneh registered 52 tackles, three interceptions, one sack, and a forced fumble. Furthermore, the two-time all-star played in 16 games during the season, as well as both playoff games, including the 2016 Grey Cup Championship. With this acquisition, Kanneh is a spark plug on defence that Hamilton desperately needs.

On the same day, the Tiger-Cats departed ways with defensive tackle Drake Nevis and reicever Matt Coates, both moving to Winnipeg. Also included in the Ticats departure list were quarterback Jeff Mathews (Toronto), running back Kendial Lawrence (Edmonton), and linebacker Ron Omara (Ottawa).

Things were quiet in the Hamilton front until early evening, when they re-signed (although unconfirmed at time of publication) defensive back Emanuel Davis. Davis has become a fan favourite and established himself as one of the league’s elite players in the secondary. According to reports, the terms of the contract stated Davis staying for two more seasons in the black and gold.

In conclusion, with both Kanneh and Davis signed, the Tiger-town faithful should be excited for what could be an exciting, convincing, and methodical defensive showing in 2017.