Source: Running back-returner Javon Leake staying put with Edmonton Elks

By The Canadian Press on December 13, 2024.

Edmonton Elks' Javon Leake (22) escapes a tackle by Calgary Stampeders' Ben Labrosse (29) during first half CFL football action in Calgary, Monday, Sept. 2, 2024.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

Javon Leake is staying put.

A CFL source said Friday the veteran running back-returner has agreed to terms on a two-year extension with the Edmonton Elks.

Leake was slated to become a free agent in February.

The source added the deal – which was negotiated by Kenny Kim of Summit Athletes – was worth more than $270,000 in hard money.

The source spoke on the condition of anonymity as the Elks hadn’t formally announced the move.

The six-foot, 205-pound Leake ran for a career-high 661 yards on 102 carries (6.5-yard average) with six TDs in 15 games this past season, his first with Edmonton.

Leake also had two 100-yard rushing contests in 2024 while adding 34 catches for 301 yards and a touchdown.

Leake also had 23 punt returns for 214 yards and 25 kickoff returns for 539 yards.

Leake joined the Elks as a free agent after spending two seasons with the Toronto Argonauts, winning a Grey Cup with the club in 2022.

Leake was used predominantly as a returner with Toronto and was the CFL’s top special-teams player in 2023 after registering 81 punt returns for 1,216 yards and four TDs. He had 38 kickoff returns for 793 yards.

Leake had 15 carries for 52 yards over his two seasons with the Argos.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 13, 2024.