Bighill inks long term deal to remain with Bombers

WINNIPEG — The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have signed linebacker Adam Bighill to a three-year contract extension, the team announced Tuesday.

Bighill was due to become a free agent on Feb. 12.

In his first season with the Bombers, Bighill had one of the best seasons of his career, claiming the league’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player recognition for the second time in his career (2015). He recorded 105 tackles while adding four sacks, four tackles for loss, a fumble recovery, two interceptions (one returned for a touchdown), and a league-leading four forced fumbles. His 127 defensive plays were the third-most in the league last season.

“It was pretty well documented that going into this off-season, re-signing Adam was a very big priority for us,” said Blue Bombers general manager Kyle Walters. “We were able to get discussions going and once we did, things moved well and I think both sides are comfortable with the agreement and excited about the future. Adam is a heck of a football player, a great leader, and we’re thrilled to keep him in Winnipeg.”

RELATED: Bighill personifies Bombers culture, identity

Prior to joining Winnipeg at the onset of training camp last season, Bighill had spent the previous season in the NFL with the New Orleans Saints. He played six seasons with the BC Lions (2011-2016) prior to joining New Orleans following the 2016 season. Bighill is a five-time CFL All-Star and six-time Western Division All-Star.

Over his six CFL seasons, the linebacker has recorded a total of 614 defensive tackles, 37 sacks, 10 interceptions, two defensive touchdowns and 12 forced fumbles. He has recorded four 100-plus tackle seasons (including 105 last season), and has never missed the playoffs as a member of a CFL club. Bighill has played 117 regular season games, starting in 103.

Bighill will also be joining Wellington-Altus Private Wealth in the off-season as an Investment Advisor.

“In the past we have had great success in supporting local curler Jennifer Jones by providing a flexible work schedule as she continued to pursue her curling career,” said Charlie Spiring, Chairman and Founder of Wellington-Altus. “We look forward to having Adam join our team as an Investment Advisor as he continues to put his focus on winning a Grey Cup with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.”