In a significant move that has captured the attention of Canadian football fans, veteran running back William Stanback has signed a one-year contract with the Ottawa Redblacks. This announcement comes on the heels of his release from the B.C. Lions, marking a pivotal moment in his illustrious career.
A Stellar Career in the CFL
William Stanback’s journey in the Canadian Football League (CFL) has been nothing short of remarkable. After making his debut with the Montreal Alouettes in 2018, he quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier running backs. In his rookie season, Stanback showcased his versatility by rushing for 539 yards and catching 25 passes for 313 yards, contributing to two touchdowns. His breakout performance came in 2019 when he amassed 1,048 rushing yards and five touchdowns, earning him a spot as a CFL All-Star.
In 2021, Stanback continued his dominance by rushing for 1,176 yards and three touchdowns, despite the season being shortened due to the pandemic. His exceptional performance that year earned him the East Division’s Most Outstanding Player award. However, the following season presented challenges as he suffered a broken ankle in the first game, limiting his appearances. Despite this setback, Stanback made a strong comeback in 2023, contributing significantly to the Alouettes’ offense and playing a crucial role in their Grey Cup victory over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Transition to the B.C. Lions
In February 2024, Stanback signed a one-year contract with the B.C. Lions, aiming to bring his experience and skill set to a new team. During the 2024 season, he played in 18 regular-season games, recording 1,175 rushing yards and three touchdowns, along with 413 receiving yards and two touchdowns. His performance was instrumental in the Lions’ offensive strategies, solidifying his reputation as a reliable and dynamic running back.
A New Beginning with the Ottawa Redblacks
The recent release of Stanback by the B.C. Lions on January 9, 2025, set the stage for his next career move. The following day, the Ottawa Redblacks announced the signing of the veteran running back to a one-year deal. This acquisition is seen as a strategic move to bolster the Redblacks’ running game, which has faced challenges in recent seasons.
Redblacks General Manager Shawn Burke expressed enthusiasm about the signing, stating, “William has been one of the league’s most consistently productive backs since joining the CFL. We are excited to add him to our organization and welcome him to the city of Ottawa.” Stanback, in turn, expressed gratitude for his time with the B.C. Lions and excitement about joining the Redblacks, stating, “I’m thankful to B.C. for a great 2024 and really excited to be coming to Ottawa. I look forward to playing for coach Bob Dyce and his staff, and can’t wait to get to work with my new teammates.”
Looking Ahead
As Stanback embarks on this new chapter with the Ottawa Redblacks, both the team and fans are eager to see how his experience and skill set will enhance the team’s performance in the upcoming season. His proven track record and leadership qualities are expected to make a significant impact, potentially elevating the Redblacks’ standing in the CFL.
In summary, William Stanback’s transition to the Ottawa Redblacks marks a new and exciting phase in his distinguished CFL career. His consistent performance and dedication to the sport have earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the league’s top running backs. As he joins the Redblacks, both he and the team are poised for a successful and promising future.
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