Avery Ellis already knows the song.
The American defensive lineman could become a free agent in the Canadian Football League on February 11. Ellis, who is 30 years old, would like to stay with the Montreal Alouettes, but if that is impossible then he will have to do his homework and find the best place to continue his career.
“It often happened to me that I signed contracts for one or two seasons knowing that I was then going to become a free agent,” confided Ellis. It’s something I know well. »
“I always prepare adequately, and take the necessary precautions to protect myself and ensure that I can play to my full potential,” he added.
The six-foot, two-inch, 250-pound player made 17 tackles, five on special teams and two sacks last season with the Birds. He signed with the Alouettes at the start of the 2022 season and played in nine games before being traded to the Edmonton Elks.
After being released by the Elks at the start of the 2023 season, Ellis once again signed with the Alouettes and contributed to their conquest of the Gray Cup. On Tuesday, Alouettes general manager Danny Maciocia said Ellis remained in the team’s plans this winter.
“It is,” assured Maciocia during a videoconference organized by the league.
“A guy like Avery Ellis or any other player who has been in our program for two years will be part of our future plans, if we are able to retain his services. But it will be part of the decisions that will have to be made between now and February 11,” Maciocia continued.
Ellis, who is 30, began his CFL career with the Ottawa Redblacks (2017-19, 2021), and was named to their team of the decade last year. In four campaigns, the former Temple University star made 129 tackles, 18 sacks and two forced fumbles.
Ellis has appeared in 97 career CFL regular season games, totaling 189 tackles, eight on special teams, 28 sacks and three forced fumbles.
“Avery is a humble and respectful guy,” said Kenny Kim of Summit Athletes, the Florida-based agency that represents Ellis. On the pitch, he is reliable, versatile and intelligent, the kind of player teams are looking for. »
“If he tests the market, then I expect he will get a lot of offers,” he added.
Ellis, who is from New Jersey, already has a plan after his football career. He’s a chef, and he’s already prepared dinners for teammates, clients and nightclubs.
“I’ve been cooking since I was in college,” Ellis said. And to be honest, football allows me to pursue my other passion (cooking). »
“If I’m able to eat well, consume quality food, then I feel like I can play to my full potential,” he continued. Football is still my passion… But cooking is not far behind. »
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