Riders sign recently-released Purifoy

REGINA — The Saskatchewan Roughriders have officially announced they’ve signed international defensive back Loucheiz Purifoy.

The 25-year-old was released by the Ottawa REDBLACKS on Monday, catching many across the league by surprise. It only took him a day to find a new team, as the signing was initially reported Tuesday by TSN’s Farhan Lalji.

Purifoy signed with the REDBLACKS this season and played in seven games with the club. The 5-foot-11, 190-pound defender collected 29 defensive tackles, one interception and a forced fumble in his time in the nation’s capital.

Before joining the REDBLACKS, Purifoy spent two seasons with the BC Lions. In his rookie year he played in 18 games and collected 43 defensive tackles, five special teams tackles, five sacks, one interception, one touchdown and four forced fumbles.

Last season with the Leos he amassed 49 defensive tackles, three special teams tackles and three interceptions in 18 games.

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are on a Week 9 bye before returning to the field in Week 10 when they host the Calgary Stampeders.