Toronto Argonauts re-sign veteran linebacker Adarius Pickett to CFL deal

Winnipeg Blue Bombers quarterback Zach Collaros (8) gets pressure from Ottawa Redblacks' Adarius Pickett (6) during first half CFL action in Winnipeg Thursday, August 14, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods

TORONTO — Adarius Pickett is back with the Toronto Argonauts.

The standout linebacker signed a one-year deal with Toronto, the team with which he enjoyed his best CFL season in 2023.

Pickett returns to Toronto after spending the past two seasons with the Ottawa Redblacks. He and the CFL club mutually agreed to part ways earlier this week.

Pickett, 29, was the East Division’s outstanding defensive player in 2023 with Toronto, posting career highs in tackles (105), special-teams tackles (19), sacks (six), and a forced fumble.

He was also a CFL and East all-star before being granted an early release by the Argos and ultimately signing with Ottawa.

The five-foot-11, 195-pound Pickett was also an East Division All-CFL team selection in each of his two seasons with the Redblacks.

Pickett began his CFL career with the Montreal Alouettes (2021-22).

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 16, 2026.