Michael Sam's football career could find new life north of the border next year.

Montreal Alouettes general manager Jim Popp told TSN's Dave Naylor he is in discussions with Sam's agent and puts the chances of the defensive lineman suiting up for the Alouettes at 50/50. Montreal has Sam on its negotiation list, meaning the team has exclusive rights to sign him in the CFL.

Sam has been a free agent since the Dallas Cowboys cut him from their practice squad in October. GQ selected him as one of their men of the year for becoming the first openly gay player drafted by an NFL team.

A big thank you to @GQMagazine for including me among their #GQMOTY - I'm beyond honored to share their company!! pic.twitter.com/nw0gVXhYlb — Michael Sam (@MichaelSamNFL) November 17, 2014

The Alouettes were eliminated from the CFL playoffs in the East Division final after going 8-2 in their last 10 regular-season games. Defense was Montreal's biggest strength, and adding a player of Sam's caliber would give it arguably the best pass rush in the league.

Former NFL scout Russ Lande believes Sam's body type and playing style are well-suited for Canadian football, comparing him to former Calgary Stampeders defensive end Cordarro Law. Law signed with the San Diego Chargers and made his NFL debut this year after recording 14 sacks with the Stampeders in 2013.

"(Sam) could star in the CFL," Lande told Sean Keeler of Fox Sports Kansas City. "The reality is, in the CFL, a lot of their pass rushers are 250-pound, smallish guys who've got quick feet. (Sam) can run, he uses his hands well, he's got a nose for the quarterback."

Sam will also have an offer from the Arena Football League to consider, according to the The Las Vegas Review-Journal.