The BC Lions announced on Tuesday that National defensive lineman Anthony Bennett has signed an extension with the team.
Bennett (six-foot-three, 230 pounds) originally joined the Lions in August of this year and suited up in four regular season contests, recording one special teams tackle.
Bennett began 2025 with the Ottawa REDBLACKS after not playing professional football the previous season.
Selected eighth overall by Winnipeg in the 2023 CFL Draft, Bennett suited up in all 18 games, plus the Western Final and 110th Grey Cup in his rookie campaign.
He finished the season with eight defensive tackles and three special teams stops.
After suiting up in nine games at Florida Atlantic from 2015 to 2019, Bennett moved north to the Regina Rams from 2021 to 2022.
He was named a Canada West All-Star in his second year after recording a school-record eight quarterback sacks.
The extension represents a vote of confidence from the Lions organization in Bennett’s potential.
Despite limited playing time in 2025, the team sees value in keeping the young defensive lineman in their system.
His combination of size and athleticism makes him an intriguing developmental prospect.
Bennett’s path to the CFL demonstrates his perseverance through adversity.
After his college career at Florida Atlantic, he took time away from football before rebooting his career in Canadian university football.
His dominant performance with the Regina Rams, including the school-record eight sacks, earned him first-round draft status.
The 2023 season showed Bennett’s durability and reliability.
Playing in all 18 regular season games plus two playoff contests demonstrated his ability to stay healthy.
His contributions on both defense and special teams added versatility to Winnipeg’s roster.
Bennett’s 2024 absence from professional football raised questions about his commitment to the game.
However, his return in 2025 with Ottawa showed he was ready to compete again.
The mid-season move to BC gave him a fresh start with a new organization.
The Lions are building their defensive line for the future.
Bennett joins a group that needs depth and young talent to compete in the competitive West Division.
His experience in Winnipeg’s championship run brings valuable playoff knowledge.
At 230 pounds, Bennett has good size for a defensive lineman in the CFL.
His ability to rush the quarterback was evident during his university days.
Translating that pass-rushing ability to the professional level remains his primary development goal.
Special teams contributions often help young players stick on rosters.
Bennett’s willingness to contribute in that phase shows his team-first mentality.
Coaches value players who can impact games in multiple ways.
The Lions finished the 2025 season with a disappointing record.
Management is making moves to improve the roster heading into 2026.
Retaining Bennett represents one piece of their rebuilding strategy.
His Canada West All-Star recognition demonstrated his dominance at the university level.
Setting the Regina Rams’ single-season sack record showcased his ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
Those skills need refinement to translate consistently in the CFL.
Bennett will have a full training camp with BC to prove his worth.
The extension gives him security while providing the Lions with a controlled asset.
Both sides benefit from the deal if he continues developing.
The defensive line position requires strength, technique and relentless effort.
Bennett has shown flashes of all three throughout his football journey.
Consistency will determine whether he becomes a regular contributor or remains a depth piece.
BC’s coaching staff will work with Bennett to maximize his potential.
His athletic profile suggests there’s more production waiting to be unlocked.
The 2026 season will be crucial for his career trajectory.
