The Ottawa Redblacks have re-signed pending free agent punter Richie Leone to a one-year contract extension through the 2024 season.
“Punting footballs at TD Place is my absolute favorite thing to do and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue doing it with the Redblacks,” said Leone in a statement. “I love this city and this organization and I’m counting down the days until we’re back on the field. Until then, see you on the canal!”
The 31-year-old was named a CFL all-star for the fifth time in his career this past season after he averaged 37.6 net yards on 117 punts, which ranked second league-wide. Leone also averaged 60.0 yards on kickoffs, placing him eighth.
Veteran kicker Lewis Ward is already under contract for the 2024 season, meaning the Redblacks will have their veteran pair back to help lead the club’s special teams units. Leone also serves as Ward’s holder.
“It’s awesome that the Dynamic Duo is sticking together. Signing Richie was an important piece of business to take care of; as his track record shows, he is the best in the league at what he does,” said head coach Bob Dyce.
“He continues to perform at an elite level and has since he came into the CFL. Even with the success he’s had individually, he constantly pushes himself to be better every day. He brings the right mentality to our locker room daily and his work ethic sets a great example for his teammates on what it takes to be great day in and day out.”
Leone played two seasons with the B.C. Lions before signing in the nation’s capital in 2018. He also had brief NFL stints with the Baltimore Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Arizona Cardinals.
