Armstead was the CFL’s fourth-leading rusher prior to being released by the Redblacks earlier this month
On Monday, the Riders announced the signing of American Ryquell Armstead, who was released by the Ottawa Redblacks on Sept. 3 despite racking up 623 rushing yards, 284 receiving yards and three touchdowns in 11 games with the club this season.
“The sample size that he had in Ottawa, I thought he emerged as one of the maybe top backs in the league,” said Riders head coach Corey Mace. “He runs well, he protects the quarterback very well, he can catch out of the backfield.”
When Armstead was released, the Redblacks only said “it was in the best interest of the team.”
During his first season in Ottawa, Armstead was CFL’s fourth-leading rusher at the time of his release but he was also fined twice by the league for verbal abuse and was kicked out of a game for two objectionable conduct penalties.
In front reporters in Regina on Monday, Armstead was asked what went down in Ottawa.
“Ultimately…,” paused Armstead. “I don’t know.
“But I wish them guys the best. I hope everything works out. Some people just don’t see eye to eye in a lot of situations and that’s fine; it’s life.
“Rather than be down on yourself, just continue to be positive. Continue to grow and continue to learn.
“I’ve been just working on the things that may have been a problem in their eyes and continue to just be better.”
Mace was asked about Armstead’s departure from Ottawa and any questions surrounding the character of the running back.
“I’m big on making my own decisions on that,” said Mace. “Everybody individually has their own way how they handle things.
“When we brought him, we spoke about it a little bit.
“At the end of the day, I know he’s a competitor and wants to win. We like those kind of people but certainly there’s a way we conduct business around here.
“He’s totally on board with that so it’s all positive.”
After being let go by Ottawa, the 27-year-old Armstead — who suited up for 18 NFL games with the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2019 to 2021 — went home to New Jersey before receiving a call from Saskatchewan to join the practice roster.
“I just hope to come in and just do my job; whatever that is and whatever they ask,” said the 5-foot-11, 220-pound Armstead. “I can hit the home run, I can bring power, I can catch it.
“I can do everything so for me, I’m just wait my time and I’m going to continue to absorb from (Hickson) and let him thrive.
“I’m not here to take over. I’m just here to bring competition and just help these guys win.”
On Monday, the Riders also announced the signing of American linebacker Braxton Hill, who is turning pro after four seasons at the University of Montana.
Meanwhile on Sunday, the Green and White also added three American players to the practice roster with the additions of receiver Tre Mosley, offensive lineman David Murray and defensive lineman Zion Tupuola-Fetui.
The Riders also welcomed back veteran defensive lineman Anthony Lanier II back to practice Monday. However, it appears Lanier is still at least a week away from making his return to the lineup after missing the previous six games with a knee injury.
Offensive lineman Jacob Brammer (knee) also practised in limited fashion for the first time on Monday since suffering an injury in July while defensive end Malik Carney (ankle) didn’t practise.
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