The CFL's Montreal Alouettes have signed former NFL defensive end Michael Sam to a two-year contract.

“Very excited and proud to be joining @MTLAlouettes! Cannot wait to get back on the field and bring a Grey Cup to #Montreal! — Michael Sam (@MichaelSamNFL) May 22, 2015

Sam, who made headlines as the first openly gay player drafted to the NFL, never played a regular-season snap in the league.

Sam was released by the St. Louis Rams at final cuts prior to the 2014 season and later spent time on the Dallas Cowboys' practice squad.

The 25-year-old was out of football last season. He competed at the NFL's inaugural veteran combine this spring but managed only a 4.99-second 40-yard dash.

"With the signing of Michael Sam, we have become a better organization today," Alouettes general manager Jim Popp said in a statement. "Not only have we added an outstanding football player, we have added even a better person that brings dignity, character, and heart to our team."