The Saskatchewan Roughriders announced today non-import offensive lineman Kelly Bates has signed with the team. Financial details of the contract were not released.
Bates (6’3 – 310 lbs) is entering his ninth season is the CFL. He started the first six games of the 2009 season with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers after being acquired in a trade from the B.C. Lions where he spent seven seasons. During his time with the Lions, the University of Saskatchewan product, played 115 regular season games and was named a CFL all-star in 2007.
The Humboldt native was originally selected by B.C. in the 4th round (32nd overall) in the 2001 CFL Draft.
The Riders also announced that they have released import offensive lineman Bobby Harris, import defensive back Denatay Heard and import offensive lineman Antonio Hall from their roster.
