Canadian receiver Rashaun Simonise signs in CJFL, Bengals want him back

Canadian receiver Rashaun Simonise has signed with the Okanagan Sun of the Canadian Junior Football League.

The #Sun are VERY excited to announce the signing of receiver @SIMZUPNEXT2 former @Bengals https://t.co/No6QZJhzFB pic.twitter.com/0SNDcuSWI4

— Okanagan Sun (@okanagan_sun) September 12, 2016

Sources say the Cincinnati Bengals want Simonise back once the Sun’s season ends. Cincy wants the rangy receiver to put on some weight during his time in the CJFL.

After being deemed academically ineligible at the University of Calgary for his senior season, the 2015 CIS first-team All-Canadian gained eligibility for the NFL’s Supplemental Draft.

Simonise held a Pro Day at McMahon Stadium and six NFL teams attended. The 22-year-old did not get selected in the Supplemental Draft, but he signed a free-agent contract with the Bengals – multiple NFL franchises offered deals.

The six-foot-five, 200-pound pass catcher played in four pre-season games with the Bengals, making two receptions for 64 yards with a long of 47. Simonise made it all the way through training camp with Cincy, but he was released among the final cuts.

That means Simonise, who is eligible for the 2017 CFL Draft, continues his circuitous route to a pro football career out in B.C. before a likely return to the Bengals and the team’s practice roster.