VANCOUVER — The BC Lions have their most dynamic weapon locked up through 2018, announcing Monday they’ve agreed to a contract extension with running back and return man Chris Rainey.

The 28-year-old was the league’s top return man in 2016 and also a key piece of the Lions’ offence, contributing to the league’s top rushing attack.

“Chris is an exciting and dynamic player who not only gives us instant field position on special teams, but also has the ability to score from just about anywhere on the field,” said GM and head coach Wally Buono. “I know our fans will have a lot to cheer about in the future with Chris in the lineup.”

Rainey was not scheduled to hit the market when free agency opens on Feb. 14.

Leading the CFL with 2,945 combined yards in 2016, Rainey recorded the league’s third-highest totals in both punt return yards (942) and kickoff return yards (1,359) to go along with 309 rushing yards and 252 more as a receiver. Both of his return totals in 2016 are the second-best season marks in Lions’ history.

His two punt return touchdowns on the year both came against the Calgary Stampeders with a 72-yard effort in Week 1 and a 95-yard romp on July 29. As an offensive weapon, he struck for the Lions’ longest run of the year with a 56-yard sprint for a major in Winnipeg on Oct. 8 and added dazzling 30-yard touchdown reception on Oct. 1 against Ottawa.

Consistent throughout the season, Rainey recorded the longest reception of the game (37 yards) in the club’s dramatic 32-31 Western Semi-Final win over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and notched a 13-yard touchdown in the Western Final.

The lofty numbers earned him a team nomination as the team’s Outstanding Special Teams Player and the first West Division All-Star selection of his career.