By re-signing Eddie Steele, Riders add ratio flexibility

The Saskatchewan Roughriders have re-signed national defensive lineman Eddie Steele.

The 29-year-old Steele started 18 games for the Riders last season, making 23 tackles and registering one sack. Originally a draft pick of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, he spent two years with the Ticats then played four seasons with the Edmonton Eskimos before signing with Saskatchewan.

Overall, the Winnipeg native has played in 108 CFL career games and made 74 starts, winning a Grey Cup with the Chris Jones-coached Eskimos in 2015.

At a minimum, Steele gives the Riders a veteran back up behind fellow Canadian Zack Evans, who was signed in the early days of free agency in February. He also gives Saskatchewan the ability to start two nationals on the interior of the defensive line should injuries strike. By adding Evans, running back Jerome Messam and now Steele, the Riders have given themselves greater ratio flexibility heading into 2018.

Steele was out in the community this past week volunteering despite not being under contract. Speaks to his character. #CFL https://t.co/axCaZYsfni

— John Hodge (@JohnDHodge) March 14, 2018