The Hamilton Tiger-Cats have agreed to terms with American defensive end Brandon Barlow and, barring anything unforeseen, he’s expected to sign with the team, per sources.
The 26-year-old played in 14 games for the Toronto Argonauts in 2023, starting two in a rotation that included Thomas Costigan and Robbie Smith. Nevertheless, he finished second on the team behind all-star Folarin Orimolade with nine sacks, adding 30 defensive tackles, two special teams tackles and two forced fumbles.
Barlow initially joined the Argos in August 2022, suiting up in 10 games as a rookie with 18 defensive tackles, one special teams tackle and one sack. He helped Toronto win the 109th Grey Cup in Regina.
Prior to his time in the CFL, the six-foot-four, 260-pound pass rusher spent six years at Boston College from 2016 to 2021. In 50 games for the Eagles, he made 128 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.
Barlow was 3DownNation‘s No. 16-ranked pending free agent. General manager Ed Hervey hopes he can boost Hamilton’s pass rush.
Pending free agents can negotiate with teams across the league during the current window, which closes on Feb. 11. Players can agree to terms on a contract with a particular team for 2024, however, these deals aren’t legally binding and can’t be finalized or made official until after free agency opens on Feb. 13.
