NEW DELHI: The Detroit Lions strengthened their defensive line on Tuesday by signing Mathieu Betts to a reserve/futures contract. The 28-year-old defensive tackle was named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player after a spectacular season with the British Columbia Lions.
Betts, a native of Montreal, made history in the CFL by recording a remarkable 18 sacks in 18 games the previous season, the most by a Canadian-born player.
Betts, who was originally taken as the third overall choice by Edmonton in the 2019 CFL Draft, chose to sign as an undrafted free agent with the Chicago Bears.
Originally picked as the third overall choice by the Edmonton club in the 2019 CFL Draft, Betts chose anDespite his initial stint in the NFL, he was released by the Bears over the summer, triggering a return to Canada to play with the Edmonton Oilers in 2019 and 2021 before joining the British Columbia Lions in 2022 and 2023 seasons.The Chicago Bears signed him as an undrafted free agent.
The Detroit Lions’ signing of Mathieu Betts demonstrates the team’s dedication to strengthening its defensive line, and his exceptional performance in the CFL has drew notice as he returns to the NFL.
The reserve/futures contract allows the Lions to secure Betts for the next few seasons, demonstrating their belief in his ability to contribute to the team.
