The 30-year-old wide receiver expresses that it’s time for the Ottawa Redblacks, who have only secured 14 victories in the last four seasons, to reverse their fortunes and once again contend for the Grey Cup. Moreover, he expresses his desire to contribute to that turnaround.
Rhymes, who was part of the Redblacks from 2017 to 2019, has inked a two-year contract to make a return to the nation’s capital. He is set to receive approximately $195,000 for the upcoming season, with additional incentive bonuses.
In many ways, Ottawa has evolved into a second home for Rhymes, as he has spent the past three offseasons residing there. It holds sentimental value as the place where he met his fiancée, Mackenzie, during his rookie season.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Rhymes stated, “I’m super excited; there’s no other emotion I can have but just joy. I’m thrilled to come back as a Redblack. Ottawa has really become a home for me. It’s a loving city. You walk around, people smile at you, they wave. When I come back to Ottawa and I talk about this being family, I really mean it.”
During his time with the Redblacks, Rhymes had a standout season in 2019, recording 65 receptions for 1,056 yards and five touchdowns. Following his departure as a free agent, he spent three seasons with the BC Lions. In 2022, Rhymes had a career-best year with 1,401 yards on 85 receptions, scoring 11 touchdowns and earning a division all-star designation.
Rhymes confidently declares, “You haven’t seen the best of me. I’m adopting a different approach than before, aiming to be more aggressive on the field. I want to demonstrate dominance, making opponents aware that facing the Redblacks’ offense will be a challenge. I’m prepared to give it my all, compete, and strive for victory. While I understand the challenges the Redblacks have faced in recent years, I assure you, things are going to change.”
The Lions released Rhymes last week after failing to reach an agreement on a restructured contract.
Rhymes expressed his surprise, saying, “It was unexpected. My agent and I explored a few scenarios. We had discussions with the Lions, but I wasn’t comfortable with restructuring to a lower amount. We parted ways, and then things unfolded rapidly.”
Ottawa was the first team to reach out, followed by others. Given that Ottawa has become a home for him, Rhymes was eager to play for Coach Bob Dyce. His goal is to help restore Ottawa to its past glory as a winning franchise accustomed to reaching the Grey Cup.
Reflecting on his growth since leaving the Redblacks, Rhymes noted, “I’ve become more of a leader. Leading by example is crucial. If I’m encouraging my teammates to give their all, I must demonstrate that with my performance. I aim to be dominant, to know I’m the best player and receiver on the field. I want my teammates to embrace that mindset because, collectively, great things can happen.”
In related news, the Redblacks also announced a one-year contract extension for Global linebacker Tyron Vrede. The 27-year-old, who has spent his entire CFL career with Ottawa, showed promise last year before a season-ending injury. In four games, he started two at middle linebacker and recorded a total of 20 tackles.
Be the first to comment