The Calgary Stampeders have signed international defensive lineman Micah Johnson to a contract that runs through the 2018 season. Johnson, a 2016 CFL all-star, had been eligible to become a free agent today.

Johnson started 17 games in 2016 and recorded career highs with 36 tackles and seven sacks. He had two tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and three knockdowns. The fourth-year Stamp also played a key role in a run defence that gave up a league-low 4.6 yards per carry to the opposition.

“Micah has established himself as one of the premier interior linemen in the CFL and he is a key part of our defence,” said president and general manager John Hufnagel. “I’m pleased that we were able to come to an agreement and I look forward to seeing Micah continue to perform at a high level.”

Johnson joined the Stamps in 2013 after spending time with several National Football League clubs including the New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, Kansas City Chiefs, Cincinnati Bengals and Green Bay Packers. In 46 career regular-season games with the Red and White, the University of Kentucky alum has recorded 103 tackles, including nine tackles for loss, 18 sacks, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, seven knockdowns and one interception.

“This is just the perfect situation for me from top to bottom,” said Johnson. “From the coaches to the guys I play with to the city of Calgary, this is just the right place for me.”