Hamilton, Ontario – The Hamilton Tiger-Cats announced today that the team has acquired import defensive back Chris Thompson and non-import linebacker Michael Botterill in exchange for non-import receiver Brock Ralph.
“With this trade we’ve added two players who have the opportunity to make strong contributions to the club,” said general manager Bob O’Billovich. “Chris is a good-sized defensive back with great coverage skills while Michael is an outstanding special teams player who will add to our defence.”
Thompson, a 6-0, 189-pound native of New Orleans, Louisiana, started five of the nine games he played in with the Eskimos last season after signing on August 31. The Nicholls State product recorded 12 defensive tackles, one pass knockdown and one interception.
Thompson was the Jacksonville Jaguars’ fifth round (150th overall) selection in the 2004 NFL Draft. He spent one season with the Jaguars before stints with the Chicago Bears, Cleveland Browns, Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills.
Botterill, a 6-3, 225-pound native of Belleville, Ontario, has played the last two seasons with the Eskimos after being dealt from the Montreal Alouettes on July 3, 2006. Originally drafted by the Alouettes in the sixth round (51st overall) of the 2003 CFL Canadian Draft, Botterill has recorded 65 defensive tackles, 71 special teams tackles and four quarterback sacks in 84 career games.
Prior to turning pro, Botterill played four years at McMaster where he helped the Marauders capture three consecutive Yates Cups (2000-2002), earning the Yates Cup MVP in 2002.
About the Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats are a member of the Canadian Football League (CFL) with a rich 139-year history, which includes 42 Canadian Football Hall of Famers and 15 Grey Cup Championships. For more information log onto www.ticats.ca
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