In February, the Toronto Argonauts made significant signings by adding Ka’Deem Carey and Albert Awachie to their roster, bolstering their ground game. With the departure of AJ Ouellette to the Roughriders during free agency, the Argos have replenished their backfield with both new and familiar talents.
Ka’Deem Carey, a running back, brings a wealth of experience from his four-year tenure with the Calgary Stampeders. Over 44 games, Carey amassed 2,855 rushing yards, averaging an impressive 5.8 yards per carry. He also contributed significantly in the passing game, recording 732 receiving yards on 90 receptions and scoring a total of 19 touchdowns. Despite missing most of the 2023 season due to injury after an exceptional performance in 2022, Carey’s departure from the Stampeders was a significant loss.
Albert Awachie, primarily a fullback, spent three seasons with the Roughriders since 2019. While his role mainly involved blocking and receiving out of the backfield, Awachie showcased versatility by also returning kickoffs, averaging 10.2 yards per return over 43 games. Both Awachie and Carey are aged 31.
Additionally, the Argos secured the services of running backs Deonta McMahon and Dan Adeboboye through off-season resignings. McMahon, aged 24, made his debut in Toronto last year, appearing in seven games and demonstrating promise with 134 rushing yards on 38 carries, scoring three touchdowns. Adeboboye, also 24, saw increased involvement in the 2023 season, tallying 287 rushing yards and a touchdown on 41 carries.
While losing a standout performer like Ouelette was significant, the Argonauts have reinforced their running back unit with multiple options to support Chad Kelly, who is slated to start for Toronto in 2024.
