Former Riders veteran defensive back Ed Gainey agrees to terms with Edmonton Elks

Photo courtesy: Scott Grant/CFLPhotoArchive.com

Veteran defensive back Ed Gainey has agreed to terms with the Edmonton Elks, per sources.

Gainey rejoins Chris Jones after the general manager and head coach brought him to Saskatchewan in 2016, the two men spent three seasons together with the Roughriders.

Riders GM Jeremy O’Day let Gainey and camp know the green and white were not going to be offering him a contract extension prior to the opening of free agency on Tuesday, February 8.

The five-foot-eleven, 193-pound cover man spent five seasons with the Roughriders. He was named a CFL all-star twice during his time with Saskatchewan. Gainey’s most productive year came in 2017 when he made 49 total tackles and pilfered a league-leading 10 interceptions.

The nine-year CFL veteran broke into the league with the Montreal Alouettes in 2012 and played 21 games over two seasons with the team. He made 12 defensive tackles, 11 special teams tackles, and scored one touchdown with the Als prior to his release in June 2014.

Gainey signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats the following month and dressed for 22 games over two seasons, recording 56 defensive tackles, 14 special teams tackles, two interceptions, and one forced fumble.

The 31-year-old Gainey can lead by example in showing other players on defence what’s expected from Jones.