Adam Gagnon
Hamilton, Ontario – The Hamilton Tiger-Cats announced today that the team has added a trio of free agents: non-import linebacker Kevin Eiben, import defensive end Greg Peach and non-import offensive lineman Tim O’Neill.
Eiben, a 6-1, 216-pound native of Delta, British Columbia, joins the Ticats after 11 seasons with the Toronto Argonauts. In 162 career games, Eiben has made 704 defensive tackles, 81 special teams tackles, 15 quarterback sacks, 19 tackles for a loss, 10 interceptions and 11 fumble recoveries. He’s been an East Division All-Star four times, a CFL All-Star three times and was named the East Division’s Most Outstanding Canadian in 2004.
The Bucknell product was selected by the Argos in the fourth round (26th overall) of the 2001 CFL Canadian Draft. He was nominated six times as Toronto’s Most Outstanding Canadian Player, twice as their Most Outstanding Defensive Player, once as their Most Outstanding Player and was member of the Argos 2004 Grey Cup championship squad.
“Kevin’s had a very productive career to date, and we’re expecting him to add flexibility and depth to our group of linebackers. He’s an intelligent player with tremendous character. The wealth of experience he brings makes this a great signing,” remarked vice president of football operations Bob O’Billovich.
Eiben commented, “I’m very excited to join the Ticats organization for their 2012 Grey Cup run. I’m looking forward to sharing my 11 years of CFL experience with the team and building camaraderie with my new teammates. I can’t wait for training camp.”
Eiben continued, “I’d like to thank the Toronto Argonauts organization, fans and teammates for 11 great years and great memories. Toronto will always have a place in my heart but I’m excited for the next chapter of my career.”
Peach, a 6-3, 255-pound native of Vancouver, Washington, accumulated 94 defensive tackles and 13 quarterback sacks in the previous three seasons with the Edmonton Eskimos. He played in 12 games with the Esks last season, making 21 defensive tackles and three sacks in 12 regular season games before adding six tackles and two sacks in two playoff games.
During his collegiate career at Eastern Washington, Peach set new school records for single-season quarterback sacks (18), career quarterback sacks (35.5), single-season tackles for a loss (28) and career tackles for a loss (63). In 2008, he was named the Big Sky Conference Defensive MVP and was honoured with the Buchanan Award, presented to Division I Football Championship Subdivision’s top defensive player.
“Greg’s relentless effort and intensity on the field will benefit our defensive line. In dealing with him over the last few days, I’ve been very impressed by his attitude. He’ll fit in well with our team,” said O’Billovich.
O’Neill, a 6-3, 305-pound native of Victoria, British Columbia, spent the last four years with the Calgary Stampeders, suiting up in 68 games as a guard and centre. Last season, O’Neill dressed in all 18 regular season games, starting 15 at centre.
A 2005 third-round selection of the Edmonton Eskimos, O’Neill captured a Grey Cup championship with the Stampeders in 2008.
“Tim is a proven interior lineman that will provide us with experience and flexibility on our offensive line. He’s a solid addition to our roster,” commented Bob O’Billovich.
About the Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats are a member of the Canadian Football League (CFL) with a rich 143-year history, which includes 15 Grey Cup Championships. For more information log onto www.ticats.ca
– 30 –
