The Calgary Stampeders have signed international defensive back Ciante Evans. A CFL all-star in each of the past two seasons, Evans had been eligible for free agency on Feb. 13.

Evans joined the Stampeders in 2015 and became a full-time starter at cornerback in 2016. He led the Red and White with five interceptions in 2017 and earned division and league all-star honours for a second consecutive season. In 34 career CFL regular-season games, the 25-year-old Fort Worth, Tex., native has 98 tackles, seven interceptions, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and 20 knockdowns.

“Ciante has established himself as one of the premier corners in the CFL and I’m pleased he has chosen to remain with the Red and White,” said president and general manager John Hufnagel. “The secondary was one of our major strengths in 2017 and I’m expecting Ciante to be a key contributor on our defence once again this season.”

Prior to turning pro, Evans played four seasons at the University of Nebraska and saw action in 47 games including 33 starts.

“I’m thankful to the Calgary organization for giving me the opportunity to continue my dream as a football player,” said Evans. “Calgary is a beautiful city with great fans. I’m excited to be back, to get back to work and I’m looking forward to what the 2018 season has in store for the organization as well as myself.”