OTTAWA – Nigel Romick, a defensive lineman and original Ottawa Redblack, announced his retirement from professional football Friday after 11 seasons.

Romick spent his entire CFL career with Ottawa, playing in 128 games from 2014 to 2025 and helping the Redblacks to three Grey Cup appearances, including a championship in 2016.

The Thunder Bay, Ont., native recorded 113 career special teams tackles, along with 17 defensive tackles and one sack.


Ottawa Redblacks player Nigel Romick cleans out his locker in the team's dressing room, in Ottawa on Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang

Ottawa Redblacks player Nigel Romick cleans out his locker in the team’s dressing room, in Ottawa on Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang

In a statement, Redblacks vice president of football operations Shawn Burke praised Romick for his professionalism, toughness, and leadership

Romick was drafted by the Redblacks in the third round, 23rd overall, in the 2014 CFL draft before Ottawa’s inaugural season.

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He said he looks forward to supporting the Redblacks as a fan in retirement.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 24, 2026.