Solomon Elimimian is staying in the CFL.
TSN's Dave Naylor confirmed that the linebacker has signed a one-year deal plus an option to stay with the BC Lions.
It was previously reported that the former CFL All-Star had an agreement with the NFL's Cleveland Browns, and while Elimimian's agent says an opportunity still existed with the Browns, his client has decided instead to pursue a CFL job.
Offensive lineman Jovan Olafioye also decided to stay with the Lions rather than look for an opportunity south of the border. The reigning Most Outstanding Offensive Lineman got a look from the Green Bay Packers who ultimately decided to pass citing medical concerns, and was reported to have interest from other teams.
“Having Jovan under contract is an extremely important step forward for our team in 2013,” vice president of football operations and GM Wally Buono said in a team release. “Protecting the quarterback is a top priority and Jovan's presence on our line is a big part of our offensive success.”
Elimimian spent time with the Minnesota Vikings and Browns last off-season before returning to the Lions midway through the year.
Elimimian lost playing time in BC to Adam Bighill, and it has yet to be seen how the team will incorporate both players on the field.
The Lions have also signed former Edmonton Eskimo Julius Williams. The third-year defensive end totalled 25 tackles and seven sacks in his two years with the Eskimos. The Connecticut product appeared in only nine games for Edmonton last season.
