After the BC Lions struggled to put together consistent outings on the field last season, it was evident some changes were needed with Wally Buono's football team.
Buono and the Lions took another step in their off-season rebuild Friday by keeping one asset while letting go of two serviceable assets.
The Lions announced they have agreed to terms with defensive lineman Brent Johnson on a two-year contract extension. The club also announced they are parting ways with linebacker Javy Glatt and offensive lineman Jason Jimenez, as the two imports have been released.
Johnson started all 18 regular season games in 2009. And, like many of his teammates, Johnson struggled to put together a strong season, recording only six sacks and 39 defensive tackles. Johnson will get another chance to prove he can put up solid numbers as he is set to enter his 10th season as a Lion.
"Brent is a veteran leader in our room as well on the field and I am very pleased to know his ability and experience will continue to be part of our team," said Buono, Lions GM and head coach, in a team press release.
Johnson was the Lions third-round selection in the 2000 Canadian Draft. Johnson has been named a CFL All-Star three times, most recently in 2008. Johnson has played in 150 games with the Lions and was also the league's Most Outstanding Defensive Player in 2006 and the Most Outstanding Canadian in 2006 and 2005.
"I'm very excited to remain part of the Lions' plans," said Johnson. "When you have an opportunity to spend your entire career with one team it makes your time there very special. Looking ahead to next season, I believe we will still have a very strong core of veteran players and we're going to be an extremely tough team to play against.
While Johnson believes the Lions core of veteran players will remain strong two players who won't be part of it are Glatt and Jimenez.
Glatt joined the Lions in 2003 as the Lions' 15th overall selection in the 2003 Canadian draft. The graduate of UBC appeared in 117 games for the Leos over seven season amassing 362 tackles and nine interceptions.
The Lions acquired Jimenez through free agency prior to the start of the 2006 season. Jimenez would never miss a start for the Lions over a four-year span. In that time, he started 72 games and would go on to be named a West Division and CFL All-Star in 2008.
"Jason and Javy are quality individuals who deserve a great deal of credit for our past success. We wish them the very best," said Buono.
