Veteran DL Mike Moore expected to unretire, rejoin Stampeders: report

Photo courtesy: Scott Grant/CFLPhotoArchive.com

The Calgary Stampeders will receive a boost to their roster after making their final cuts as veteran American defensive lineman Mike Moore is expected to rejoin the team on Sunday, according to a report from 770 CHQR’s Mark Stephen.

Moore announced his retirement from professional football on May 10, calling it the “hardest decision I have ever made.” He has since had a change of heart and has already been quietly re-added to the Stampeders’ official roster.

The six-foot-four, 269-pound defender signed with the Stampeders in April following his release from the Montreal Alouettes.

Moore has played 66 career games as a member of the Ottawa Redblacks, Edmonton Elks and Alouettes. He recorded 101 tackles, eight tackles for loss, 23 sacks, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and one blocked kick. The Virginia product has also made nine tackles and two sacks in four career postseason games.

The 29-year-old was named a West Division all-star with Edmonton in 2019 and led Montreal in sacks this past season with six. His father, Shawn, played quarterback at the professional level for Calgary as well as the Ottawa Rough Riders, Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and Denver Broncos. He also attended the University of Virginia.

Moore played 47 games over four seasons with the Cavaliers, seeing action at defensive line and linebacker. He recorded 108 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, five pass knockdowns, four fumble recoveries, and three forced fumbles.

The Stampeders are scheduled to open the 2023 CFL season on Thursday, June 8 when they host the B.C. Lions at McMahon Stadium.