WINNIPEG - The Winnipeg Blue Bombers shored up their defensive line by signing Canadian Jamaal Westerman on Thursday.

The six-foot-three, 260-pound Westerman joins the Bombers after six seasons in the NFL with the New York Jets (2009-11), Arizona Cardinals (2012), Indianapolis Colts (2012), Buffalo Bills (2013) and Pittsburgh Steelers.

The native of Brooklyn grew up in Brampton, Ont.

"Jamaal was highly recruited throughout the CFL this off-season and we are very grateful and fortunate he chose the Winnipeg Blue Bombers," said Winnipeg GM Kyle Walters. "He's a big, physical defensive end who we feel can be an immediate impact player on our roster.

"In addition, his Canadian status is a major plus and really a ratio changing addition for us."

Westerman joined the Jets as an undrafted free agent and appeared in 58 games through six NFL seasons. He amassed 62 tackles, six sacks, four fumble recoveries and one forced fumble, while adding 27 special-teams tackles.