Canadian linebacker Kevin Francis claims that he has asked to be traded or released from the Edmonton Elks just one month after signing with the team as a free agent.
“Over a month now, I’ve been ignored about my money,” tweeted Francis on Wednesday. “I officially asked for a release or to be traded from the Edmonton Elks organization due to the lack of communication and ‘how we do business.’ Got ignored about that too.”
The six-foot-five, 210-pound defender signed with Edmonton following a breakout season with the B.C. Lions. He dressed for 18 regular season games this past year and led the CFL with 22 special teams tackles.
The Toronto native’s one-year contract with the Elks is worth approximately $125,000 and included a $25,000 signing bonus, as per 3DownNation‘s JC Abbott.
This isn’t the first time Francis has taken to Twitter to voice his displeasure since signing his new deal.
“The disrespect I’ve received from an organization I haven’t even suited up for yet… it’s wild,” he tweeted on March 9. On February 28, he tweeted, “Athletes, read your contracts thoroughly. It’s a shame what goes on in this business.”
Francis has dressed for 82 career CFL games as a member of the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Ottawa Redblacks, and Lions, recording 18 defensive tackles and 61 special teams tackles.
“The club is actively working with Kevin to address his concerns,” the Elks wrote in a written statement to 3DownNation. “Until the matter is resolved, we will have no further comment.”
The 29-year-old played tight end during his four-year college career at North Carolina A&T where he made 17 receptions for 163 yards. He was a supplemental draft choice of the Riders back in 2016 when Chris Jones was the team’s head coach and general manager. Jones now holds both roles in Edmonton.
Francis’ tweets have been lightly edited for clarity.
