Adarius Pickett won’t experience free-agency anxiety. This Thursday, the five-foot-11, 210-pound linebacker signed a one-year contract with the Ottawa Redblacks, securing his place in the CFL.
Adarius Pickett won’t be grappling with free-agency uncertainty. The 5-foot-11, 210-pound linebacker secured his CFL future recently by signing a one-year contract with the Ottawa Redblacks. This agreement was reached after Pickett verbally committed during the league’s negotiation period and then officially signed following his release from the Toronto Argonauts. With his contract settled, Pickett can now fully focus on his responsibilities.
Expressing relief, Pickett mentioned, “I’m really glad it’s over, honestly. I can focus on all the stuff I need to do here.” Pickett attracted considerable attention during the negotiation window, following an impressive 2023 season with Toronto. The 27-year-old emerged as the East Division’s top defensive player, boasting 105 tackles, 19 special-teams tackles, six sacks, and one forced fumble, earning him recognition as a CFL all-star.
Kenny Kim, Pickett’s agent based in Florida, commended Pickett’s on-field performance, stating, “Adarius’s play on the field speaks for itself. He was a very sought-after player in free agency.” Kim also highlighted Pickett’s winning attitude and predicted another successful season for him, both on and off the field.
Having commenced his CFL journey with the Montreal Alouettes in 2021-22, Pickett has accumulated 201 tackles, 38 special-teams tackles, 11 sacks, four forced fumbles, and two interceptions over 48 career games. Despite Toronto’s record-setting 16 victories in the 2023 season, their campaign ended abruptly with a loss in the East Division final.
Now joining the Ottawa Redblacks, a team that hasn’t reached the CFL playoffs since 2018, Pickett aims to instill a new winning culture in the Canadian capital. He emphasized the importance of attention to detail and leadership in achieving playoff success. Pickett is determined to make a difference both on and off the field, ensuring that every aspect, no matter how small, contributes to the team’s overall success.
Pickett emphasized the significance of a cohesive locker room in Toronto’s successful regular season last year. He highlighted the camaraderie among players from various positions, which fostered a positive atmosphere and contributed to their on-field achievements. Pickett aims to replicate this atmosphere in Ottawa to promote team success.
Ottawa’s GM, Shawn Burke, has been active in the off-season, securing several key acquisitions and re-signing pending free agents. Pickett expressed excitement about the direction Ottawa is heading, noting the team’s potential with the new additions.
Although leaving Toronto was challenging for Pickett, he understands the business aspect of the sport and remains focused on his role as a player. Financial terms of Pickett’s deal were not disclosed, but he emphasized the importance of securing a fair contract that reflects his value and contributes to the growth of the league.
Pickett’s offseason priority was not only to secure a favorable deal for himself but also to ensure fair compensation for players league-wide. He is committed to contributing to the growth of the league and supporting his fellow athletes.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on February 9, 2024.
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