February 14, 2019

Defensive back Murray returns to Ticats

Walter Tychnowicz/CFL.ca

HAMILTON — Veteran defensive back Rico Murray is back for a second stint with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, after the two sides agreed to a free agent deal on Thursday.

Murray, 31, started 18 games with the Ottawa REDBLACKS last season, registering 55 defensive tackles, three special teams tackles, five interceptions and a forced fumble en route to being named an East Division All-Star for the third time in his career (2014, 2017, 2018). The 5-11, 203-pound native of Cincinnati, Ohio also suited up in two playoff games for the REDBLACKS in 2018 including the 106th Grey Cup in Edmonton.

Murray has appeared in 86 career CFL games (84 starts) over six seasons with the Tiger-Cats (2013-16), Toronto Argonauts (2017) and REDBLACKS (2018), accumulating 290 defensive tackles, 15 special teams tackles, four quarterback sacks, 15 interceptions, six forced fumbles and two touchdowns (one interception return, one fumble return). The Kent State University product has also played in 11 playoff games including four Grey Cup appearances (2013, 2014, 2017, 2018) – winning one with the Argos in 2017.

Prior to joining the CFL ranks, Murray played nine National Football League games with the Cincinnati Bengals over three seasons (2009-11), posting 19 combined tackles and two passes defended.