Overview

• James Butler was released by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in January 2025 after a difficult 2024 season marked by midseason struggles and a replacement in the lineup.
• Hours after his release, Butler signed as a free agent with the B.C. Lions, where he had previously excelled during a breakout 2022 season.
• Lions general manager Ryan Rigmaiden expressed regret over Butler's initial departure, emphasizing his value to the team during recruitment discussions.
• New head coach Buck Pierce praised Butler's versatility, highlighting his skills in pass protection, running, and football intelligence as key assets for the revamped Lions roster.
• Butler, participating in training camp in Kamloops, expressed excitement about returning to the Lions, wearing his old college number, and contributing to a team reshaped by recent management and roster changes.