December 21, 2017

Argos ink Canadian FB Declan Cross to contract extension

Declan Cross (38) of the Toronto Argonauts and TJ Heath (23) of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers during the game at BMO Field in Toronto, ON, on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017. (Photo: Johany Jutras)

The Toronto Argonauts announced Thursday that the team has signed Canadian fullback Declan Cross to a contract extension that will keep him in Double Blue through the 2020 season.

“Declan was a big part of our team’s success in 2017,” said Jim Popp, the Argos General Manager. “On and off the field, he is a true team player who leads by example. He took a big step forward this past season and we look forward to working with him as he continues to develop and progress as an exciting football player and great teammate.”

Cross, a fourth-round selection (27th overall) in the 2016 CFL Draft, has played in all 36 regular season games and two post-season games since joining the Argos.

The McMaster product has been a consistent contributor on special teams, posting 10 special teams tackles and manning a leadership role on coverage units.

In 2017, the Oakville, Ontario, native had a breakout year offensively, hauling in 36 passes for 366 yards while finishing third on the team in both receiving touchdowns (5) and yards after catch (274).

Cross, who was voted a Special Teams Captain by his teammates last season, caught all six of his targets for 51 yards in the post-season and was on the receiving end of two key two-point converts in the second half of the 105th Grey Cup, including the game-tying conversion in the fourth quarter.