Hamilton Tiger-Cats sign All-American blocker Temi Ajirotutu, cut one

Photo: Villanova Athletics

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats have signed American offensive lineman Temi Ajirotutu, the team announced on Tuesday.

The six-foot-five, 310-pound blocker was a standout at Villanova University, where he made 45 starts over 52 career games. According to Pro Football Focus, Ajirotutu allowed 52 pressures and six sacks over the course of his tenure at the school.

The native of Queens, N.Y. had his best season in 2025, when he was named a first-team FCS All-American by the American Football Coaches Association, a second-team FCS All-American by Football Central, and first-team All-Conference.

The Tiger-Cats have also released Canadian receiver Shedler Fervius.

The 27-year-old native of Scarborough, Ont. signed with the team in August following his release from the Montreal Alouettes. Over 19 regular-season CFL games, he has made seven catches for 87 yards.

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats opened training camp on May 10. Hamilton will play its two preseason games against the Toronto Argonauts on Saturday, May 23 and Friday, May 29. Final roster cuts are due on Saturday, May 30, after which the team will play its first regular-season game against the Montreal Alouettes on Thursday, June 4.

Hamilton recently selected Louisiana Tech offensive lineman Jonathan Denis with their first-round pick in the 2026 CFL Draft, adding depth up front. The team’s other major offseason additions include quarterback Tre Ford, receiver Kurleigh Gittens Jr., and linebacker Wynton McManis.

In 2025, the Tiger-Cats finished first in the East Division standings with an 11-7 record, though the team lost the East Final to the Montreal Alouettes.