The BC Lions Football Club has announced the signing of international defensive linemen George Uko and Jacques Smith this morning.
One week from today, first-year Lions will be on the field in Kamloops for the first of three mini-camp practices ahead of 2016 Training Camp which begins on Sunday, May 29 and is presented by Sun Peaks Resort.
Uko was originally signed as an un-drafted free agent by the New Orleans Saints in 2014 and later spent time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and most recently, the Denver Broncos with whom he earned Super Bowl title in February while serving on the team’s practice roster. A former USC Trojan, Uko appeared in 39 career games, 29 as a starter tallying 35 solo tackles, 14 of which were for a loss along with 10 sacks.
Smith joins the Leos following a similar NFL path after being signed as an un-drafted free agent by the Atlanta Falcons in 2014. Following a strong training camp showing, he spent the season on Falcons’ practice roster before eventually being waived in 2015. The former Tennessee Volunteer was an All-SEC Freshman Team selection in 2010 and ultimately started in 23 of his 47 collegiate appearances through 2013.