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Manitoba Bisons’ defensive lineman David Onyemata signs with New Orleans Saints

David Onyemata, of the University of Manitoba, holds the J.P. Metras Trophy as the most outstanding down lineman of the year during November's CIS Awards gala.
David Onyemata, of the University of Manitoba, holds the J.P. Metras Trophy as the most outstanding down lineman of the year during November's CIS Awards gala. Jacques Boissinot / The Canadian Press

The New Orleans Saints announced on Wednesday they’ve sign former Manitoba Bisons defensive lineman David Onyemata to his first pro contract.

Onyemata, 23, agreed to a four-year contract. He was selected by the Saints in the fourth round, 120th overall. Onyemata was the first ever Bisons player to be taken in the NFL Draft.

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RELATED: New Orleans Saints pick Manitoba Bisons’ David Onyemata in NFL Draft

Onyemata won the J.P. Metras Trophy as the best down lineman in Canadian university football in his final year with the Herd. But it was a strong showing at the East-West Shrine game in January that made NFL scouts take notice.

The Saskatchewan Roughriders used the 35th overall pick in the fourth round of the CFL draft to select Onyemata. The Riders retain his CFL rights in the event he decides to play in the CFL.

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Onyemata was the last remaining Saints draft pick to sign a contract but he still took part in the Saints rookie mini-camp over the weekend.

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