For the second straight day, the Ticats have locked up a key Canadian contributor, signing guard Ryan Bomben to a three-year contract extension.
Bomben was acquired last May in draft day trade with Montreal as Hamilton sent first and third round picks to the Alouettes in exchange for the five-year veteran. It was a calculated gamble, given that Bomben was slated for free agency next February – but it appears to have paid off for the Cats.
A native of Burlington, the 28-year-old Bomben and his wife welcomed their first child this summer and staying at home was likely a draw.
With centre Mike Filer agreeing to a contract extension on Tuesday, the Ticats now have two veteran Canadian offensive lineman – an increasingly scarce commodity in the CFL – under team control through 2018.
In other practice news, I think defensive back Jalil Carter will suit up for the Ticats on Friday versus the Stampeders. He will likely be limited to certain defensive packages, special teams and a reserve role. Receiver Bakari Grant and back up safety Mike Daly look set to return but I would expect to see Landon Rice start at guard for Peter Dyakowski (who may still be on the roster.) Return man Brandon Banks will play.