Calgary Stampeders head coach and general manager John Hufnagel is pleased to announce that non-import offensive lineman Dimitri Tsoumpas has signed a long-term contract extension with the club. As per team policy, terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
 
“During his previous two seasons with the club, Dimitri proved to be one of the best young offensive lineman in the CFL,” said Hufnagel. “We’re happy to have him back and thrilled that he wants to make a long-term commitment to the Stampeders.”
 
Tsoumpas rejoins the team after time with the Miami Dolphins. He was a West Division all-star and Calgary’s nominee for the Most Outstanding Canadian award in 2009 after starting all 18 regular-season games and two playoff contests. He was a pillar on an offensive line that paved the way for running back Joffrey Reynolds to win his second consecutive rushing crown as the CFL’s top rusher. The Stampeders ranked second in offensive yards from scrimmage and were first in rushing offence.
 
“I’m excited to be back in Calgary,” said Tsoumpas. “The NFL was something I had to try and I have no regrets about my time down there. I’m happy to be back with the Stampeders and I’m thrilled to be a part of this organization for a long time to come.”

>> Audio: Tsoumpas speaks to media
 
The Edmonton-native was the Stampeders’ nominee for the outstanding rookie award in 2008 after he started all 18 regular-season games as well as the West final and the Grey Cup. He was a part of an offensive line that was among the league leaders in average rushing yards per game (134.6), average rushing yards per carry (6.4) and fewest sacks allowed (30) and helped to pave the way for the CFL’s leading rusher Joffrey Reynolds (1,310 yards). He helped to block for 117 rushing yards in the Grey Cup contest against Montreal.
 
Calgary drafted Tsoumpas second overall in the 2008 CFL Canadian Draft after acquiring the pick in a draft-day trade with the Edmonton Eskimos.