The B.C. Lions have officially announced that Marcus Sayles, an American defensive back, has signed a two-year contract extension. Sayles, a two-time CFL all-star, was set to become a free agent on Feb. 13 but has decided to continue with the Lions for another two years.
At 29 years old, Sayles will be returning for his fourth season with the Lions following an impressive 2023 season. In the previous season, he recorded 38 defensive tackles, three tackles for loss, one fumble recovery, and seven pass breakups in 18 regular-season games. Additionally, Sayles contributed seven tackles in two playoff games and an interception in the West Division semifinal win over the Calgary Stampeders.
During the 2022 season, Sayles had a standout year with 68 defensive tackles and four interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown in a game against Winnipeg. He also secured an interception in the West Division Final and earned both CFL and West Division all-star selections.
Sayles initially joined the Lions as a free agent in 2021, demonstrating his versatility by playing at both halfback and linebacker positions. In his debut season with the Lions, he accumulated 52 defensive tackles, two interceptions, and a forced fumble in 13 games.
Before joining the Lions, Sayles began his CFL career with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers from 2018-19. He received a West all-star nod in his first season and played a crucial role in the team’s championship victory in the 107th Grey Cup over Hamilton.
This announcement was made by The Canadian Press on Feb. 3, 2024.
