Gone in a flash: B.C. Lions re-sign explosive CFL all-star Lucky Whitehead

Photo courtesy: Jeff Vinnick/B.C. Lions

The B.C. Lions have signed explosive playmaker Lucky Whitehead to a two-year contract extension through the 2023 season.

The 2021 CFL all-star emerged as one of the league’s most impactful free agent signings last season, recording 60 receptions for 932 yards, fifth in the three-down league, and five total touchdowns in 12 games while leading the team with 1,212 combined yards. The five-foot-10, 177-pound speedster was eligible to become a free agent on February 8.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to be back and to help this squad get to the next level,” Whitehead said in a statement. “We have some pieces already in place to contend year in and year out and I can’t wait to see what else this off-season brings.”

The 29-year-old Whitehead’s special teams highlights included a 119-yard missed field goal return major in a win over Ottawa in Week 6 and a 79-yard punt return touchdown to help take down Edmonton in the regular season finale on November 19.

Additional Lucky Whitehead accolades from 2021:

• CFL leader with 447 yards after the catch (YAC) with that number accounting for 48 percent of his overall total.
• 15.5 yards per reception was best among all Lions and second-highest CFL total behind Winnipeg’s Kenny Lawler.
• Recorded four games of 100 or more receiving yards.
• Lions’ team nominee for CFL Most Outstanding Player.
• Named a CFL top performer of the month for both September and November.
• Voted as both a CFL and West Division All-Star.