Calgary Stampeders head coach and general manager John Hufnagel is pleased to announce that import linebacker Juwan Simpson has re-signed with the club. As per team policy, terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

“After being utilized at different positions in his first two years with our team, Juwan really solidified himself at middle linebacker this past season and his play became the cornerstone of our defence,” said Hufnagel. “We look forward to seeing him build on a great 2010 season.”

Simpson, a 26-year-old native of Decatur, Ala., was a Canadian Football League all-star this past season and he was the West Division finalist for the CFL’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player award. He posted career highs with 71 tackles (led the team), seven sacks (tied for the team lead), 17 special-teams tackles and one interception. He also added four knockdowns, one forced fumble, three fumble recoveries and two tackles for loss.

“The Stampeders are a first-class organization from top to bottom,” said Simpson. “I think we have a recipe here to do some great things and I’m just happy to be a part of it. The fans are great here and I’m happy to play in front of them each and every week. Overall, Calgary is a great fit for me and I’m already looking forward to next season.”

A University of Alabama alumnus, Simpson has been with the Stampeders for three seasons. He split his first two seasons with Calgary between the defensive line and linebacker before finding a home in 2010 as the club’s starting middle linebacker.