Calgary Stampeders head coach and general manager John Hufnagel is pleased to announce the signing of non-import linebackers Ryland Smith and Akeem Whonder. As per team policy, terms of the agreements were not disclosed.

Smith played five seasons at Bishop’s and in 2013, his final year, he recorded 46 total tackles (20 solo, 16 assisted), two quarterback sacks, two forced fumbles and a blocked kick in nine games. He switched from defensive back to SAM linebacker before his final year with the Gaiters.

In 2012, the Brampton, Ont., native received the Marcel Lebrun Award for perseverance, commitment and personality at Bishop’s.

Whonder played five years at Windsor, initially playing in the secondary become making the switch to linebacker in his second season. In 37 career games for the Lancers, he recorded 175 total tackles — including 148 solo stops — in addition to eight sacks, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and one interception.

As a senior in 2013, the Mississauga, Ont., native earned second-team Ontario conference all-star honours as he led the team with 53 total tackles and added two sacks, two fumble recoveries, one forced fumble and one interception.