Calgary Stampeders president and general manager John Hufnagel announces that linebacker Juwan Simpson has signed a one-day contract with the club, which allows Simpson to retire as a member of the Stamps.

“For eight years, I wore one uniform and represented one team,” said Simpson. “I was fortunate enough to work for a great organization and create some lifelong friendships along the way. Calgary will always be my second home. And for those reasons, it’s an honour to officially retire as a Stampeder.”

Simpson joined the Stamps in 2008 and became the starting middle linebacker in 2010. From 2008-15, the Decatur, Ala., native played 115 regular-season games for the Red and White as well as 11 post-season contests and was a member of Grey Cup-winning teams in 2008 and 2014.

The University of Alabama product was a three-time West Division all-star and was a CFL all-star and a finalist for the CFL’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player award in 2010 after a season in which he recorded 71 defensive tackles, seven sacks, three fumble recoveries, one forced fumble and one interception.

In the regular season, Simpson accumulated 395 career tackles, 24 sacks, three interceptions and seven forced fumbles. He added 43 tackles and one sack in 11 post-season contests.

“Juwan distinguished himself during his career with the Red and White and we’re pleased to have this additional opportunity to thank him and acknowledge his contributions,” said Hufnagel. “He made a tremendous impact with his play on the field and his outgoing personality made him a key figure in our locker room and a very popular teammate. Juwan will forever be a part of the Stampeders family and we wish him all of the best in his future endeavours.”

Prior to coming to Calgary, Simpson was standout at the University of Alabama. He was a starter at linebacker for his final 24 games with the Crimson Tide and was a defensive captain his senior season. He was an academic all-Southeastern Conference selection in 2005 and was on the all-SEC freshman team in 2003.

He signed with the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent in 2007.

Simpson is currently coaching high-school football at James Clemens High School in Madison, Ala. He served as a guest coach for the Stampeders at 2016 training camp.