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Wynton McManis wasn’t unemployed long.
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats signed the veteran middle linebacker Wednesday, a day after he was released by the Toronto Argonauts. McManis joining the Ticats wasn’t much of a surprise, though, as he lives in Toronto year-round and has a daughter and son.
His arrival also fills a need for Hamilton after Canadian middle linebacker Devin Veresuk signed this off-season with the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts.
McManis had 62 tackles, four sacks, two interceptions and a forced fumble in 15 regular-season games last season.
The Memphis, Tenn., native spent four CFL campaigns with the Argos (2022-25), helping them win Grey Cups in 2022 and 2024.
The six-foot, 220-pound McManis began his CFL career with Calgary (2017-19), winning his first Grey Cup with the Stampeders in 2018.
“Wynton is one of the premier defenders in our league,” Hamilton head coach Scott Milanovich said in a statement. “He plays the game the right way — with physicality, intelligence, and a relentless motor.
“Beyond what he brings on the field, his experience as a Grey Cup champion and his leadership in the locker room are invaluable, and we’re excited to welcome him to our organization.”
McManis has 390 tackles, 52 special-teams tackles, 16 sacks, nine interceptions and four forced fumbles while scoring three defensive touchdowns in 100 career regular-season CFL games.
In a news release sent by the Argonauts on Feb. 3, General Manager Michael “Pinball” Clemons said “I do my best to appreciate each and every player that walks through the door, but some players are just different. They leave an indelible mark on your life — and Wynton McManis fits that mold.”
Clemons said “he made us better — not just a better team but better people. We are so grateful for his contributions, and while we’re sad to see him go, we wish him nothing but the best in the next chapter of his career.”