As the Hamilton Tiger-Cats gear up for their first preseason game of 2024, they are making last-minute adjustments to their defensive lineup. Notably, they have reinstated American linebacker DQ Thomas to the active roster after placing him on the suspension list at the start of training camp. Additionally, the Tiger-Cats have parted ways with defensive lineman Jason Lewan.
During the CFL free agency period, the Tiger-Cats were focused on revamping their defensive roster. They acquired several free agents and struck a deal with the Toronto Argonauts to acquire veteran linebacker Jordan Williams. However, Williams unexpectedly retired from the CFL before training began.
The retirement of beloved Tiger-Cats linebacker Simoni Lawrence and the departure of Jordan Williams left Hamilton facing a considerable challenge: rebuilding their linebacker corps. Despite the setback, the team is resolute in addressing this issue. DQ Thomas was signed during training camp with hopes of bolstering the defensive lineup. Although he was briefly placed on suspension, Thomas now has an opportunity to showcase his skills and potentially solidify the linebacker unit as they prepare to face the Ottawa Redblacks in their first preseason game.
Standing at 6’2” and weighing 216 pounds, Thomas previously had stints with the New York Jets and the Green Bay Packers during the 2022 NFL season. He played collegiate football at Middle Tennessee State University from 2017 to 2021, where he appeared in 60 games and amassed impressive stats: 309 total tackles, 53 tackles for loss, 20.5 quarterback sacks, two interceptions, nine pass deflections, eight forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries.