Ticats dip into free agency while Simoni Lawrence remains without contract

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats dipped into free agency this week, signing a trio of players from their rivals, the Toronto Argonauts while long-time player Simoni Lawrence is still without a contract.

Jamal Peters, Dewayne Hendrix and Brandon Barlow were on the Argonauts squad the past few seasons that had won six straight games against the Ticats.

“They have youth on their side, playing experience, some championship level experience coming into the room as well.” said General Manager Ed Hervey at a press conference held on Wednesday.

All-star defensive back Jamal Peters says Hamilton was the right fit for him as a free agent.

“Just a family, the physicality, dog mentality they play with…it’s an easy decision for me to come down and play with the Ticats,” he told reporters.

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With an influx in signings coming from Toronto, some could say the Tiger Cats defense is looking more and more like the Hamilton Argos.

“We see it’s less about what division they came from , but improving our roster and having results in the 2024 season,” said Hervey.

The players themselves see their Argo connection as a bonus.

“Personally it’s great having teammates in the building already, taking the chemistry we had there, proceeding with it here and integrating it with the rest of the team is a great opportunity I think,” said Barlow.

“It feels good…those are two of my best friends. Coming here was definitely exciting.” said Hendrix.

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The signing that hasn’t been announced yet and has had fans wondering, is that of long-time Ticat and fan favourite Simoni Lawrence.

Hervey spoke on the question, saying, “Simoni Lawrence is a very important part of this organization. There’s always going to be an opportunity for Simoni Lawrence to be in this organization.”

The team also signed former Stampeders receiver Luther Hakunavanhu, who has a history with Ticats starting quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell.

“Coming into the league he helped me a lot. Understanding the game…coming in young, sometimes it’s intimidating. He was a big part of that. First catch was with Bo here…that’s full circle.”

Hakunavanhu is treating the Ticats as a fresh start and hopes to become the all star he believes he can be.