Veteran Linebacker Expresses Shock, Cites Lack of Explanation
Micah Awe, a linebacker who topped the CFL in defensive tackles last season, voiced his surprise and frustration yesterday following his unexpected release from the B.C. Lions in January. Despite a statistically dominant year, Awe, 32, found himself on the outside looking in, a move he claims lacked clear justification based on his on-field performance.
Awe insists his film shows he remains among the league's elite linebackers. He feels he is still playing at a high level, believing his experience and intensity would secure him playing time even with new additions to the team's defensive lineup. This assertion stands in contrast to the team's decision to move on.
A Pattern of Movement, Yet Still Surprised
The linebacker's departure from the Lions, a team he has had multiple stints with, adds to a career characterized by frequent team changes. Awe admitted to a degree of self-mockery, acknowledging that his nomadic history might have suggested such an outcome. Yet, after leading the league in tackles, he genuinely expected to continue with the B.C. club. He stated, "I thought I was gonna be back in B.C."
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This latest chapter in Awe's career comes after a season where he recorded 568 defensive tackles, 44 special teams tackles, six sacks, seven interceptions, and seven forced fumbles over 118 CFL games. He also expressed having "unfinished business" with the franchise.
Sankey's Arrival and Unanswered Questions
The timing of Awe's release is notable, occurring shortly after the Lions signed Darnell Sankey. Reports from January indicated that the Lions were "undecided about Micah Awe's future with team after Darnell Sankey acquisition," suggesting Sankey's arrival influenced the team's roster decisions. Awe was under contract for the upcoming season, making his release appear more abrupt.
While the official reason for his departure remains tied to roster adjustments, Awe's comments highlight a potential disconnect between statistical output and organizational decisions. He expressed a sentiment that "people have to pay," hinting at an expectation of reward for on-field contributions.
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A Career Defined by Adaptation
Awe's journey through professional football has been marked by constant adaptation. Even during his collegiate years at Texas Tech, he navigated changing defensive schemes, playing under five different coordinators in four years. This experience, he has stated, has contributed to his development as a well-rounded linebacker capable of playing various roles. His ability to learn from veteran players like Solomon Elimimian during his first tenure with the Lions also shaped his perspective on the importance of both talent and character.
