TORONTO -- Chris Jones is staying put.
After being considered for the Montreal Alouettes head-coaching vacancy, Jones signed a contract extension Tuesday to remain the Toronto Argonauts defensive co-ordinator, assistant GM and assistant head coach.
"I would like to thank the Montreal Alouettes organization, especially Bob Wetenhall and Jim Popp, for their consideration," Jones said in a statement. "After some deliberation, it became apparent that Toronto was the best place for me.
"We've started something great here and I think that, with the players and coaches we have in place, there is an opportunity to build on our championship and contend for the Grey Cup every year."
While Jones is no longer up for the Montreal job, a league source requesting anonymity said Tuesday the Alouettes have received permission to speak to Argos special-teams coach Mike O'Shea and new offensive co-ordinator Marcus Brady -- a former Alouettes assistant -- about their head-coaching vacancy.
Jones came to Toronto following the 2011 season, joining rookie head coach and good friend Scott Milanovich. A staunch Argos' defence anchored the club's Grey Cup march, culminating in an exciting 35-22 win over Calgary in the 100th CFL title game at Rogers Centre in November.
"Chris Jones is a proven winner, and his ability to co-ordinate dominant defences cannot be questioned," Milanovich said. "His leadership, commitment and passion for the game had a tremendous impact on our football team in 2012.
"I believe his time to be a head coach will come sooner rather than later, but I am very thankful, and excited, to have him back this season."
Jones has spent 11 seasons coaching in the CFL and his teams have never missed the playoffs. He's a three-time Grey Cup champion (2002 with Montreal, 2008 with Calgary and this year with Toronto).
