CFL.ca Staff
HAMILTON — The Hamilton Tiger-Cats have signed import kicker/punter Justin Medlock, the team announced on Wednesday.
Medlock, a 6-0, 208-pound native of Fremont, California, previously suited up with the Ticats in 2011 before signing with the NFL’s Carolina Panthers on March 6, 2012. He attended training camp with the Oakland Raiders in 2013.
During his one season in Black and Gold, Medlock connected on 49 of 55 field goal attempts, setting a new Ticats single-season record with a field goal percentage of 89.1%. He also averaged 41.6 yards per punt and 60.2 yards per kickoff. Medlock was named the Ticats Most Outstanding Special Teams Player and an East Division All-Star.
“Justin is a big addition to our football team. He’s a proven player who is familiar with our organization and has performed at a very high level,” said General Manager and Head Coach Kent Austin.
Prior to arriving in Hamilton in a trade with the Edmonton Eskimos on March 21, 2011, Medlock also spent time with the Toronto Argonauts, Washington Redskins, Detroit Lions, St. Louis Rams and Kansas City Chiefs, who selected him in the fifth round (160th overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft.
The UCLA product has been successful on 86.5% (96/111) of his career CFL field goal attempts.
“I’m excited to return to the Tiger-Cats and to the CFL. Winning is a huge priority for me, and I feel that this team is in position for long-term success. I’m looking forward to contributing in a big way in 2014 and beyond,” commented Medlock.
The Tiger-Cats also announced that they have re-signed non-import kicker/punter Brett Lauther.
Lauther, the 53rd overall pick in the 2013 CFL Draft, was successful on six-of-ten field goal opportunities during his rookie season while averaging 59.8 yards per kickoff.
