Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ Willie Jefferson (5) celebrates his tackle against the Saskatchewan Roughriders during the second half of CFL Banjo Bowl action in Winnipeg on Saturday, September 7, 2024. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods)
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have re-signed veteran defensive end Willie Jefferson to a one-year contract extension.
Jefferson, who was set to become a free agent in February, will return for his 12th CFL season and seventh with Winnipeg in 2026. The 33-year-old appeared in 17 games last season, recording 15 defensive tackles, three sacks, one forced fumble and a league-leading 16 pass knockdowns.
The 16 knockdowns matched Jefferson’s own franchise record and rank as the third-most in CFL history. He now has 46 sacks as a Blue Bomber, fifth-most all-time in team history, and 77 career sacks overall.
A six-time CFL all-star, Jefferson was named the league’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player in 2019 and has been Winnipeg’s top defender three times. He is also a three-time Grey Cup champion, winning once with Edmonton and twice with Winnipeg.
Jefferson has also received the Ed Kotowich ‘Good Guy Award’ and the Cal Murphy ‘Heart of a Legend’ Award for his contributions on and off the field.
