Johany Jutras/CFL.ca
VANCOUVER — The BC Lions have signed Hunter Steward to a one-year contract extension, the team announced Wednesday.
Steward played 18 games for the Lions in 2016, starting 14 at left guard.
“Hunter is a young and talented offensive lineman who continues to improve each year,” said Head Coach and General Manager Wally Buono. “Success on offence begins with the ability to run the ball and protect the quarterback and Hunter plays a significant role in that success.”
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Hunter Steward (right) celebrates a touchdown with Travis Lulay (The Canadian Press)
The move ensures the Lions’ starting offensive line from last season — Jovan Olafioye, Hunter Steward, Cody Husband, Kirby Fabien and Antonio Johnson — is entirely under contract for 2017.
Steward, who checks in at 6-foot-6, 315 pounds, was the Lions’ first selection (sixth overall) in the 2013 CFL Draft. He made his pro debut a year later in 2014 and has logged 28 appearances for the club including all 18 regular season games in 2016.
“It’s great to be back for this year,” said Steward. “We have established a lot of chemistry on offence and the opportunity to pick up where we left off last season is going to be a big positive.”
Last season, the Lions led the CFL in rushing yards with 2,082 and finished third in average yards per game with 401.1.
