Ottawa Redblacks sign Canadian linebacker A.J. Allen, American quarterback Jake Maier

By Canadian Press on February 11, 2026.

OTTAWA — The Ottawa Redblacks signed Canadian linebacker A.J. Allen and American quarterback Jake Maier on Tuesday.

Allen’s deal covers two years, while Maier signed a one-year contract. Both players became free agents Monday.

Allen, a Guelph, Ont., native, set career highs last season with Grey Cup-champion Saskatchewan in total tackles (91), defensive tackles (87), sacks (four) and forced fumbles (three). He was named the Roughriders nominee for the CFL’s top Canadian award.

Maier dressed for all 18 regular-season games in 2025 with Saskatchewan. He completed 56-of-87 passes for 617 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions.

Maier has appeared in 84 career regular-season games with Saskatchewan and the Calgary Stampeders (2021-24). He has completed 1,078-of-1,584 passes (68.1 per cent) for 12,302 yards with 62 TDs and 41 interceptions.

Hamilton Tiger-Cats sign Canadian defensive lineman Dabire

HAMILTON — The Hamilton Tiger-Cats signed Canadian defensive lineman Charbel Dabire on Wednesday.

Dabire, 29, joins the Ticats after spending time with the Saskatchewan Roughriders (2019, 2021-2025). Dabire appeared in 58 regular-season games with the Riders, registering 41 tackles, four special-teams tackles, two sacks and a forced fumble.

Dabire was a member of Saskatchewan’s Grey Cup-championship roster in 2025.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 11, 2026.

The Canadian Press