Grey Cup champion B.C. Lions re-sign import linebacker Anton McKenzie

VANCOUVER – The B.C. Lions re-signed import linebacker Anton McKenzie on Monday.

McKenzie originally joined the club as free agent prior to the 2009 season after spending three years with the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

He has appeared in 52 of his 82 CFL games with B.C. during his six-year career. McKenzie was a standout for the club last season, ranking second in tackles with 79 while adding two sacks.

Get daily National news

Get daily Canada news delivered to your inbox so you'll never miss the day's top stories.

Sign up for daily National newsletter Get Started

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

“Having Anton re-sign is another important step in keeping the core of our team intact moving forward,” general manager and vice-president of football operations Wally Buono said in a statement. “This is great news for our fans and we’ll continue the process of assembling the best possible club for 2012.”

The versatile McKenzie had an interception and added four tackles in B.C.’s Grey Cup win over Winnipeg in November.

“What makes Anton extremely valuable beyond his statistics is his ability to communicate with teammates and direct the defence on the fly,” Lions head coach Mike Benevides said. “His willingness to do whatever it takes and his quiet leadership are a big part of our team concept.”