Argos extend Ricky Ray's contract through 2017 season

Toronto Argonauts' Ricky Ray throws a pass during first half CFL Eastern Division Semifinal football action against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, in Hamilton, Ont., on Sunday, Nov. 15, 2015. (Frank Gunn / THE CANADIAN PRESS)

TORONTO -- The Toronto Argonauts have extended the contract of quarterback Ricky Ray through the 2017 season.

The three-time CFL all-star led Toronto to a Grey Cup title in 2012, but injuries started to take their toll on the 13-year veteran over the past two seasons.

Ray spent the first half of 2015 recovering from off-season shoulder surgery before returning as a backup to Trevor Harris.

Ray started Toronto's final three games -- including its East Division semifinal loss to Hamilton -- but never fully recovered from his injury.

He has said that improving his shoulder strength will be a priority over the off-season.

"I am excited to remain with the Double Blue," Ray said in a statement. "I believe it is a great time to be an Argo with the incoming ownership group, the move to BMO Field and the upcoming Grey Cup in Toronto. I really enjoy playing in Toronto and I look forward to playing with my teammates and coaches in this new era for the Argonauts."

Ray led the Edmonton Eskimos to Grey Cup titles in 2003 and 2005 before joining Toronto in a December 2011 trade.

In four seasons with Toronto, Ray has completed 70.5 per cent of his passes for 11,955 yards and 71 touchdowns to 21 interceptions.