The Calgary Stampeders have signed American defensive lineman James Vaughters following a four-year stint in the NFL.
The six-foot-two, 250-pound edge rusher dressed for 33 games over two seasons with the club in 2017 and 2018, recording 50 defensive tackles, eight special teams tackles, and 11 sacks. He won a Grey Cup in his second year as a member of the team.
“I’m excited to be back in Calgary with the Stamps,” said Vaughters in a statement. “I won a Grey Cup here but, more importantly, learned how to be a professional. I appreciate the club for recognizing what I can add to the team and I look forward to getting acquainted with my teammates as we pursue the 2023 Grey Cup.”
The 29-year-old signed with the Chicago Bears ahead of the 2019 season and dressed for 17 games over two seasons as a member of the team, recording 25 total tackles, two tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. He signed with the Atlanta Falcons in 2021 after being waived by the Bears and played 10 games with the club, making eight total tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble.
“We’re happy to bring James back to the Red and White,” said head coach and general manager Dave Dickenson. “Anytime you can bring in a player with James’ toughness and work ethic, it’s a win for your team.”
Vaughters was in training camp with the Pittsburgh Steelers this past season but was released upon its conclusion. The Stanford product played four seasons of college football and recorded 124 total tackles, 21.5 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries over 54 games.
Both of Calgary’s starting defensive ends from this past season, Folarin Orimolade and Shawn Lemon, are pending free agents.
