On the second day of free agency, the Ottawa Redblacks made significant moves by signing an American offensive lineman and a linebacker. Their notable acquisition was Phillip Norman, a 6-foot-4, 318-pound player from Sebastian, Florida, who has been with the B.C. Lions on and off since 2019. Norman, 28, signed a one-year deal with the Redblacks after missing the previous season due to a serious medical incident. He collapsed during a walkthrough on June 14, 2023, and had to be revived by trainers before being hospitalized. Although he was cleared to practice, he remained on the injured list for precautionary reasons. Norman started in 15 games for the Lions in 2022 and 13 in 2019.
Joining Norman in Ottawa is American linebacker Silas Stewart, 28, from New Castle, Delaware, who signed a one-year deal. Stewart spent the last three seasons with the Calgary Stampeders. Despite playing only five games last season and recording 11 tackles, Stewart had a more productive 2022, playing in all 18 games and registering 55 tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble.
The Redblacks’ signings indicate a strategic effort to bolster their roster, especially in key positions like offensive line and linebacker. Norman’s arrival brings depth and experience to their offensive line, while Stewart’s addition adds versatility and skill to their linebacker corps. These signings aim to strengthen the team’s competitiveness and performance in the upcoming season.
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