Alouettes re-Sign Key Defensive Contributors for Upcoming Season
The Montreal Alouettes have bolstered their roster for the upcoming season with the re-signing of veteran linebacker Alexandre Gagné and the addition of American defensive end Joe Ozougwu.
Gagné, a stalwart presence on special teams, inked a one-year deal with the team. The 32-year-old Quebec native has been a consistent contributor for the Alouettes, appearing in every game during both the 2023 and 2024 seasons, including playoff appearances and the thrilling East Division final in 2024. His dedication was instrumental in the Alouettes’ Gray Cup victory in 2023.
Standing at an imposing six-foot-one and weighing 230 pounds, Gagné brings valuable experience and leadership to the locker room.Alouettes General Manager Danny Maciocia praised Gagné’s influence,stating,”Alexandre is a true leader. His words carry weight, and he backs them up with his tireless work ethic on the field. We’re thrilled to have him back.”
Gagné’s journey with the Alouettes began in 2021 after a three-season stint with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Prior to his professional career, he honed his skills with the University of sherbrooke’s Vert et Or.
Joining Gagné on the Alouettes’ defensive line is Joe Ozougwu, who signed a contract extending through 2027. Ozougwu, a 27-year-old defensive end, brings a promising resume to Montreal.
After three seasons with the University of North Texas Mean Green, Ozougwu transferred to Arkansas State University Red Wolves, where he continued to impress.In 2019, he recorded 42 tackles, including five for losses, and three sacks, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. He further solidified his reputation in 2021 with Arkansas State, amassing 57 tackles, 7.5 sacks, two pass breakups, and a forced fumble.
Ozougwu’s talent earned him a spot with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2022, providing him with valuable NFL experience.
Experienced Eye: Examining the montreal Alouettes Defensive Reboot
Welcome back, football fans, too another edition of “Experienced Eye.” today, we’re diving deep into the Montreal Alouettes’ roster moves, specifically the re-signing of veteran linebacker Alexandre Gagné and the acquisition of defensive end Joe Ozougwu. Joining me today is a seasoned CFL veteran, former defensive lineman, and CFL champion, Mike Smith, to provide expert insight on thes key additions. Welcome to the show, Mike!
Mike Smith: Glad to be here. Always happy to talk Alouettes football!
Host: Let’s start with Alexandre Gagné. A true workhorse for Montreal, consistently playing every game these past two seasons, including their thrilling run to the East Finals. Maciocia praised his leadership. what’s your take on Gagné’s impact on this team?
Mike Smith: Gagné is a coach’s dream. A guy who brings it every single day, both on the field and in the locker room.He’s not just a solid special teams player; his knowledge of the game and experience are invaluable, especially for a young defense.
Host: Absolutely. His experience in the playoffs, culminating in that Gray Cup win in 2023, speaks volumes. Do you think that experience will be crucial for the younger players on this Alouettes defense?
Mike Smith: Without a doubt. winning breeds confidence. Gagné brings that championship pedigree and can pass on those lessons to the upcoming generation. In football, you need that leadership to succeed.
Host: Shifting gears, let’s talk about Joe Ozougwu. A promising young talent, coming off a stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. What are your impressions of his skillset based on his college and NFL stats?
Mike Smith: The stats are extraordinary, no doubt. Ozougwu has a nose for the quarterback, showing he can get to the passer from the defensive end position. That’s something the alouettes need, especially after the departures we saw earlier in the off-season.
Host: There are some who might say the CFL is a big step down for Ozougwu, considering his NFL experience. Do you think he’ll be motivated to prove something in Montreal?
Mike Smith: Every player wants to prove themselves. I wouldn’t look at this as a step down, more of a statement opportunity. ozougwu can showcase his dominant potential in the CFL. Teams are going to see him, and if he performs well here, he’ll get another shot at the NFL.
Host: A great point, Mike. Now, looking ahead, how do you see this duo contributing to the Alouettes’ defense?
Mike Smith: I expect Gagné to be a stabilizing force, providing leadership, solid tackling and special teams prowess. Ozougwu brings the explosiveness, the ability to disrupt plays in the backfield. They complement each other well.
Host: Mike, thanks for your insightful analysis.
Mike Smith: My pleasure!
Now, fans, we want to hear from you. What do you think of these moves by the Alouettes? Will gagné and Ozougwu lead the defense to a championship run? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this episode with your fellow CFL enthusiasts!
