June 27, 2014

Taylor-made deals: Lions ink duo to extensions

CFL.ca

BCLions.com Staff

VANCOUVER — The BC Lions announced this morning that receiver Courtney Taylor and defensive tackle Eric Taylor have signed contract extensions through the 2015 season. Both players were set to enter their option years in 2014.

“Courtney and Eric are significant contributors on the field and respected leaders in the dressing room,” said VP of football operations and GM Wally Buono.

“Keeping our core of key veteran players intact is a big part of our effort to compete for a Grey Cup each and every year.”

Originally joining the Lions as a free agent late in 2011, Taylor enters his third campaign as a Leo after racking up a career-high last season of 774 yards on 61 receptions along with five touchdowns. The Seattle resident has appeared in 22 games for the Leos including 17 last season pushing his all-time totals to 1,038 yards on 77 career catches and seven majors.

“To be able to continue to play in BC where I started my career is an honour,” said Taylor. “This is a very close-knit and talented group of players and I am excited about the season ahead and doing my part to bring a championship home for our fans.”

On the defensive side of the ball, Eric Taylor begins his fourth season in orange amassing 77 tackles and 12 sacks in his three previous years as a Lion. The talented defensive tackle enjoyed a career season in 2013 with 35 tackles and five sacks.

“I am excited to sign this extension and continue my time with this outstanding organization,” said Taylor. “From our coordinators and coaches down to every player on our roster there is just one goal; to win the Grey Cup.”

“Courtney and Eric are integral to the overall success of our club,” said head coach Mike Benevides. “Their talent and leadership are of vital importance and I’m thrilled to have them sign extensions with the club.”