Calgary Stampeders receiver Arjei Franklin has announced his retirement from the Canadian Football League.
Franklin played seven seasons in the CFL, joining the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2006 before being traded to Calgary in 2009. The 30-year-old Scarborough, Ont., product played 46 regular-season games for the Stampeders from 2009-12 and also appeared in five post-season games including the 2012 Grey Cup.
“Arjei was a consummate professional and an asset to the Stampeders both on and off the field,” said Stampeders head coach and general manager John Hufnagel. “Arjei always carried himself with class and dignity. He was a tremendously respected teammate and a pillar of the community. I thank him for everything he has done for the club and wish he and his family all the best in the future.”
Including his time in Winnipeg, Franklin played 94 regular-season games and recorded 165 receptions for 1,952 yards and three touchdowns. He also returned 17 punts for 128 yards and served as the holder on place-kicks for much of his Stampeders career.
In the playoffs, Franklin played eight games and had 17 catches for 233 yards and two touchdowns. Both of his post-season scores — in the 2009 West Division semi-final and the 2010 West Division final — came in a Stampeders uniform.
“I want to thank the Calgary Stampeders for giving me the opportunity to be a part of such a great organization,” said Franklin. “I would also like to thank the Winnipeg Blue Bombers for giving me my start in the CFL. Football will always be a passion of mine but I realize that the time has come for me to be physically present in my family’s lives year round. Lastly, I would like to thank God for blessing me with this unbelievable experience.”