The Edmonton Elks have signed Global linebacker Les Maruo, per sources.
The native of Yokkaichi, Japan spent the last three seasons as a member of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers after being selected fourth overall in the 2021 CFL Global Draft. He dressed for 38 games with the team, recording 24 defensive tackles, 20 special teams tackles, and two sacks.
Prior to the CFL, Maruo played two seasons with the Asahi Soft Drink Challengers in the Japanese X-League. He began his collegiate career at Hutchinson Community College before moving to the University of Texas at San Antonio, starting all 12 games for the Roadrunners in his senior season. In 23 total NCAA games, he posted 98 tackles, six tackles for a loss, 3.5 sacks, two fumble recoveries, one interception, and one pass knockdown.
Despite being born in Japan, Maruo was raised in Wichita, Kan. since he was nine years old and took up the sport of football while in the United States.
Edmonton has used 2024 first-overall Global Draft pick Eteva Mauga-Clements to fill their designated Global roster spot but the Samoan linebacker has been banged up. British kicker Dean Faithful is the only other Global player on the roster.
The Elks (0-4) will return to action on Sunday, July 14 when they host the Ottawa Redblacks.
