{allcanada} Jackson agrees to new deal with Lions

Click here to buy Sale Posters!

B.C. Lions back-up quarterback Jarious Jackson has agreed to a two-year contract extension with the team, Sportsnet has learned.

The 33-year-old, who was linked to both Winnipeg and Toronto, has come to terms on a pact that runs through the 2012 season which will give the Lions veteran insurance behind starter Travis Lulay, who was locked up long-term in December.

It was a busy day in the Canadian Football League. Sportsnet also revealed that the Hamilton Tiger-Cats signed their back-up pivot, Quinton Porter, to a contract extension and that Montreal did the same with defensive tackle Eric Wilson. The Lions also committed to defensive back Stanley Franks, locking up the 24-year-old for three more years.

But Jackson remaining in Vancouver was the most intriguing move after he decided to explore his options in free agency when he did not come to terms with Lions head coach and general manager Wally Buono. Jackson was in search of a starting job, but there were few legitimate better options for the former Notre Dame quarterback.

Over the past week, while Jackson was gauging interest in potential employment with the Argonauts (lukewarm at best) and Blue Bombers, the Lions had dialogue with veteran quarterbacks Stefan LeFors and Kerry Joseph. Both are now out of the picture, although B.C. will likely bring a fourth quarterback to training camp - but a younger arm to ideally develop, like they once did with Lulay and Buck Pierce.

Next up for the Lions would be re-structuring receiver Geroy Simon's contract. It is expected the veteran will agree to a more cap-friendly deal in the form of an extension, which will include a decent signing bonus.

The only two free agents of note who remain unsigned are Adriano Belli, the non-import Argonauts defensive tackle, whom many believe will remain in Southern Ontario; and Eskimos import defensive end Kitwana Jones.

Entertainment Plaza - TV, Movies, Sports, Music
http://members.shaw.ca/almosthuman99

Babe Of The Month
http://members.shaw.ca/almosthuman99/babeofthemonth.html

Hunk Of The Month
http://members.shaw.ca/almosthuman99/babeofthemonthman.html