VANCOUVER – The BC Lions announced the signings of three Americans on Monday, wide receiver Michael Fitzgerald II, defensive linemen David Gusta and Buddha Peleti.
Michael Fitzgerald II (WR)
Fitzgerald (6’6, 210 lbs) – the Atlanta native suited up in 12 games at UMASS from 2021-22 before moving to Central Missouri across 2023-24. He transferred to Wyoming for his senior season, finishing out his collegiate career with the Cowboys.
Collegiate Stat Highlights:
Central Missouri Career (22 games): 55 receptions, 835 yards, 8 touchdowns.
Breakout 2023 Season: 32 catches for 526 yards and 5 touchdowns.
Career High: 136 receiving yards vs. Pittsburg State (2023).
Senior Season at Wyoming (12 games): 16 receptions, 228 yards, 3 touchdowns.
CardBiz Angle: His large 6’6″ frame makes him an instant red-zone threat. If he translates that size into consistent CFL touchdowns, he could be a prime sleeper pickup for Lions.
David Gusta (DL)
Gusta (6’3, 316 lbs; listed as 308 lbs in some reports) – played the bulk of his collegiate career at Washington State from 2021-24 before transferring to Kentucky for his senior year. The San Bernardino, CA native earned an invite to the East-West Shrine Bowl and turned heads at the 2026 NFL Combine.
Stat & Combine Highlights:
2026 NFL Combine: 37 reps on the bench press (1st overall among all prospects).
Combine Speed: 4.88 time on the 40-yard dash (ranked in the upper-half of defensive tackles).
Washington State Career (32 games): 62 total tackles, 6 TFLs, 1.5 sacks, 4 pass knockdowns.
Senior Year at Kentucky: 12 total tackles, 3 TFLs, 1 sack, 2 QB hurries.
CardBiz Angle: Gusta’s elite combine performance makes him the highest-profile prospect of this trio. His sheer strength and SEC pedigree at Kentucky make him a player to watch.
Buddha Peleti (DL)
Peleti (6’2, 250 lbs) – the Adelanto, CA native built his resume over 36 games at New Mexico State from 2021-24. He moved to Washington State for his senior campaign, making an impact in high-profile matchups including the Apple Cup and the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl.
Collegiate Stat Highlights:
New Mexico State Career (36 games): 58 total tackles, 13 TFLs, 9.5 sacks, 1 pass knockdown.
Senior Year at Washington State (13 games): 22 tackles, 7 TFLs, 4 sacks.
Clutch Performances: Registered sacks against Washington (Apple Cup) and Utah State (Famous Idaho Potato Bowl).
CardBiz Angle: Edge rusher with a knack for getting to the quarterback.
Releases and Roster Moves
The Lions also released the following players from the roster: defensive back Marquis Bridges, linebacker Marvin Grant, quarterback Gevani McCoy, defensive back Jamal Parker and running back Antonio Wimbush.