Former Alabama quarterback Blake Sims will suit up again for a second gridiron opportunity.
According to Alabama’s 247 sports writer Charlie Potter, the Saskatchewan Roughriders have open its doors to the Georgia native and former Crimson Tide standout.
Sims’ brother, Hunter Sims, shared the news Wednesday via Twitter.
https://twitter.com/hsims6/status/626482705514004481
Blake Sims was used in numerous roles during his tenure at Alabama from 2010-14. He was primary seen at running back, but Sims earned reps as a receiver, defensive back, scout team quarterback and backup quarterback. He earned the starting job at quarterback last season.
Sims navigated Alabama to 12 wins, a Southeastern Conference title and an appearance in the College Football Playoff. He became the program’s single season passing leader with 3,487 yards. Sims accounted for 35 total touchdowns and 350 rushing yards in 2014.
He wasn’t selected in the 2015 NFL Draft, and despite earning a tryout for the Green Bay Packers and Washington Redskins (at running back), Sims wasn’t chosen to sign a contract as an undrafted rookie agent. The Toronto Argonaunts (CFL) signed him to a three-year deal on May 28, 2015, yet Sims would be released from the team nine days later.
Toronto’s lost could be promising for Regina, Canada.
Saskatchewan has three quarterbacks on its roster, however, it’s winless on the season in five games. The CFL fits Sims’ skill set because the field is 110 yards long and 65 yards wide.
At Alabama, Sims was used to throwing a lot of balls toward the sideline. The Canadian League gives him a chance to complete more of his pass attempts and improve his accuracy.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine, Pick Six Previews and SB Nation. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
