TORONTO — The Toronto Argonauts announced Thursday the team has released veteran linebacker Keon Raymond.

A nine-year CFL veteran, Raymond was in his first season with the Argos after signing with them as a free agent back in February.

In his first year in Toronto, the 33-year-old recorded 34 tackles — second on the team — to go with two interceptions, a touchdown and a sack.

A native of St. Louis, Raymond spent his first eight seasons with the Calgary Stampeders, emerging as one of the league’s top playmakers. Throughout his nine-year career he’s totaled 26 interceptions and eight touchdowns.

The Argos’ defence currently ranks seventh in the league in yards allowed (381.9 per game) under first-year Argos defensive coordinator Rich Stubler and has struggled in back to back weeks. In all, the Boatmen have been outscored 79-40 over their last two games, both losses, against Winnipeg and Edmonton.

Toronto is back in action on Aug. 31 vs. the BC Lions following a Week 10 bye.