Alouettes GM Danny Maciocia: ‘almost a foregone conclusion we’re moving on’ from Henoc Muamba

Photo courtesy: Montreal Alouettes

The Montreal Alouettes are planning as if reigning Most Outstanding Canadian, linebacker Henoc Muamba won’t be back with the birds.

Muamba has yet to sign with a CFL team after the free agent market opened on Tuesday, February 9 at noon ET, but he’s been in discussions with interested franchises.

“The door is closed but not necessarily shut or shut and not closed, depending on how you want to interpret it,” Montreal general manager Danny Maciocia said in a videoconference.

Muamba played at an elite level — regardless of his passport — earning CFL all-star honours in 2019. Over his last two years in Montreal, the 2011 first overall CFL Draft pick has tallied 201 tackles, six sacks, three forced fumbles and one interception.

“The reality is, when you take a look at the situation, obviously he’s talking to some other teams, I don’t know if anything is going to come to fruition,” Maciocia said.

“We’re at a stage right now, based on the so-called resources that we have, and the moves that we’ve made, that it’s almost a foregone conclusion that we’re moving on. I can’t wait too much longer. We’ve got a football team to put in place.”

The 31-year-old has been patient in free agency in the past and it’s the same this time around. He’s not going to rush to a decision or be pushed by other people’s deadlines. Instead, Muamba will be meticulous and make an informed choice about what’s next when he feels ready.

“I respect the process, I respect what he’s going through, and I’m sure it’s not easy. I’m sure he’s deep in conversation with his immediate family and his agent who happens to be his brother [Cauchy],” Maciocia said.

“I’m sure he’ll find himself a home somewhere, I’m sure he’ll be able to produce the way he’s capable of producing, and I wish him nothing but the best.”

Justin Dunk
Justin Dunk is a football insider, sports reporter and anchor.