Adarius Pickett Released Early by Ottawa Redblacks
The Ottawa Redblacks have granted an early release to linebacker Adarius Pickett, allowing him to enter free agency. This decision follows discussions between the team and Pickett’s agent.
Shawn Burke, the vice-president of football operations, expressed gratitude for Pickett’s contributions over the past two years. “We wish him all the best moving forward,” he stated.
Adarius Pickett: Career Highlights
Pickett, 29, was a pending free agent and had a notable career with the Redblacks. He was named to the All-East Division team in both 2024 and 2025. Over his two seasons in Ottawa, he achieved:
- 136 defensive tackles
- 28 special teams tackles
- Three sacks
- Two interceptions
- One forced fumble
Despite enduring a significant injury, a torn Achilles late in the 2024 season, Pickett continued to excel on the field.
Overall CFL Career Stats
Throughout his five-season career, Pickett played in 79 regular-season games with three different teams: the Montreal Alouettes, Toronto Argonauts, and the Redblacks. His cumulative statistics include:
- 337 defensive tackles
- 66 special teams tackles
- 14 sacks
- Five forced fumbles
- Four interceptions
He is recognized as a one-time All-CFL selection and a three-time All-East Division selection. In 2023, he was nominated for the Most Outstanding Defensive Player award in the East Division while with the Argonauts.
Redblacks Season Performance
The Ottawa Redblacks had a challenging season in 2025, finishing fourth in the East Division with a record of 4-14. This marks the fifth time in six seasons that they have missed the playoffs. Key statistics from their season included:
- Dru Brown’s record: 2-7 in nine starts
- Brown’s passing: 2,389 yards, 14 touchdowns, 10 interceptions
- Dustin Crum’s record: 2-4 in six starts
- Crum’s passing: 1,771 yards, six touchdowns, two interceptions
- Leading rusher: William Stanback with 698 yards
- Leading receiver: Justin Hardy with 1,019 yards
- Leading tackler: Adarius Pickett with 84 tackles
Attendance Figures
Attendance at games saw a decline, with an average of 18,136 fans, representing a 4.2% decrease compared to the previous year. The Redblacks faced challenges both on and off the field during the season.
With Adarius Pickett’s release, the Redblacks look to rebuild as they head into the upcoming free agency period.
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