Ottawa Redblacks agree to terms with All-CFL strong-side linebacker C.J. Reavis: sources

Courtesy: Saskatchewan Roughriders

The Ottawa Redblacks have agreed to terms with American strong-side linebacker C.J. Reavis, per sources. Barring anything unforeseen, he’s expected to sign with the team.

Reavis was named an All-CFL selection for the second consecutive year with the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2025, producing 61 defensive tackles, two forced fumbles, two sacks, and one interception in 17 games. He moved to safety during the Riders’ Grey Cup run, adding seven tackles through two playoff games.

The 30-year-old first signed with Saskatchewan in 2022, seizing the starting job in his second season. Through 55 CFL games, he has registered 209 tackles, 11 special teams tackles, nine sacks, two interceptions, and six forced fumbles.

The Chester, Virginia native split his collegiate career between Virginia Tech and Marshall University, recording 131 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, one forced fumble, and one interception in 33 combined NCAA games. In between the two schools, Reavis attended East Mississippi Community College for one season, where he was featured on the popular Netflix docuseries Last Chance U.

Pending CFL free agents can negotiate with teams across the league during the communication window, which closes on Sunday, February 8. Players can agree to terms on a contract with a particular franchise; however, the deals are not legally binding and can’t be made official until after free agency opens on Tuesday, February 10.