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Ottawa Redblacks Extend Eugene Lewis Through 2027

1/16/2026, 4:48:43 AM

Contract Extension Announcement

The Ottawa Redblacks have officially signed American receiver Eugene Lewis to a contract extension that will keep him with the team through the 2027 season. This extension comes as Lewis was set to enter the final year of his previous contract. The 32-year-old receiver had a notable performance in the 2025 season, playing all 18 games and achieving 75 receptions for 1,012 yards and six touchdowns, marking his fourth career season with over 1,000 receiving yards.

Career Highlights

Eugene Lewis, originally from Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, began his Canadian Football League (CFL) career with the Montreal Alouettes in 2017, where he played for five seasons. He later joined the Edmonton Elks for the 2023 and 2024 seasons before signing with the Redblacks prior to the 2025 season. Over his eight-year career in the CFL, Lewis has participated in 116 regular-season games, accumulating 473 receptions, 7,273 receiving yards, and 47 touchdowns. His accolades include being named the East Division’s Most Outstanding Player in 2022 and earning All-CFL honors three times (2021, 2022, 2024).

Official Statements

Ryan Dinwiddie, the head coach and general manager of the Ottawa Redblacks, expressed enthusiasm about the extension, stating, “Geno is a player who I’ve enjoyed watching from afar for a long time. I’m excited for the opportunity to get to work with him, and we’re thrilled to have him in Ottawa through the 2027 season.” This sentiment reflects the team's commitment to retaining key players as they aim to improve their performance in the upcoming seasons.

Team Performance Context

The Redblacks finished the 2025 season with a disappointing 4-14 record, placing fourth in the East Division and missing the playoffs for the fifth time in six years. The team struggled offensively, ranking sixth in net offense and ninth in turnover differential. The leading receiver for the team was Justin Hardy, who recorded 1,019 yards, while the leading rusher was William Stanback with 698 yards. The Redblacks also experienced a decline in attendance, averaging 18,136 fans per game, a 4.2 percent decrease from the previous year.

What's Next

With Eugene Lewis secured through 2027, the Redblacks will look to build a stronger roster and improve their standings in the East Division. The team’s management will likely focus on enhancing their offensive strategies and addressing their previous season's shortcomings as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “Geno is a player who I’ve enjoyed watching from afar for a long time,” — Ryan Dinwiddie, Head Coach and General Manager, Ottawa Redblacks.