Hunter Steward retires as member of B.C. Lions

Photo: B.C. Lions

Canadian offensive lineman Hunter Steward has signed a one-day contract with the B.C. Lions to officially retire as a member of the team. The announcement was made on Monday.

“A great man once told me, ‘Camp is a grind, and then it’s over,'” said Steward in a statement. “I have far too many names and memories to recognize any particular ones in detail. You all know who you are, and I thank you. We sure had plenty of fun in the trenches over the years. I’m proud to be forever a Lion.”

The 34-year-old was the sixth overall pick in the 2013 CFL Draft out of Liberty University and spent seven seasons with the team, dressing for 89 regular-season games and four postseason games at guard and tackle.

“From the time he first walked into our facility, Hunter demonstrated all of the excellent traits you look for in a professional,” said vice-president of football operations Neil McEvoy. “His versatility and ability to overcome adversity were something every player should follow. We’re grateful to have him retire as a member of the BC Lions.”

Steward spent the 2022 and and 2023 seasons with the Ottawa Redblacks, then 2024 with the Edmonton Elks. He had a stint on B.C.’s practice roster in 2025 but didn’t see any regular-season action. In total, he played 141 regular-season CFL games.

The B.C. Lions (0-0) will visit the Saskatchewan Roughriders (0-0) at Mosaic Stadium on Saturday, June 13, with kickoff scheduled for 7:00 p.m. EDT. Both teams were on a bye in Week 1. They last faced each other in the 2025 Western Final, where Saskatchewan prevailed 24-21. The Riders went on to win the 112th Grey Cup.

The weather forecast in Regina calls for a high of 17 degrees with a mix of sun and clouds. The game will be broadcast on TSN in Canada, CBS Sports Network in the United States, and CFL+ internationally. Radio listeners can tune in on 620 CKRM in Regina, 730 CKNW in Vancouver, and Sher-E-Punjab Radio AM 600 for Punjabi coverage in B.C.