Toronto Argonauts: CFL All-Star T.J. Heath returns to Toronto
By Paul Taylor
Two-time CFL All-Star defensive back T.J. Heath is reportedly headed back to Southern Ontario, for a reunion with the Toronto Argonauts.
With Ricky Ray back in the saddle for one more year, the Toronto Argonauts are aiming to win back-to-back Grey Cups for the first time since 1996-97. They have now reportedly taken another step towards helping this ambition become a reality.
According to Dave Naylor of TSN, the Double Blue have re-signed T.J. Heath. The defensive back was previously in Toronto, before being moved to Winnipeg in 2016 as part of the ill-fated Drew Willy trade.
This is a significant boost for the Argonauts, to sign one of the top CFL free agents. Heath has been extremely impressive during his first two years in Canada.
In the pass-happy CFL, you need all the help you can get in the secondary and the 30-year-old is one of the best. He is a two-time CFL and CFL West All-Star, which speaks volumes of how highly he is regarded around the league.
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During the 2017 season, Heath registered five interceptions, including a pick-six. He also recorded 64 defensive tackles and his first career sack, showing he isn’t afraid to indulge in the physical aspects of the game.
Before being traded to Winnipeg, the Alexandria, Alabama native was enjoying a fine 2016 campaign in Toronto, with five interceptions in just 10 games. Overall in the CFL, he has picked off 12 passes in 34 appearances.
Heath also brings invaluable experience from six years in the NFL. During that time, he saw regular season action with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Miami Dolphins.
While we wait for confirmation of Heath’s signing, one deal which is official is the return of Swayze Waters on a one-year contract. During his previous spell with the Argos he won the John Agro Special Teams Award, as the CFL’s Most Outstanding Special Teams Player in 2014.
Next: Ricky Ray returns for one more year
What’s your reaction to the impending return of Heath? What do you remember from his first spell with the team? What kind of impact are you predicting for him this season with the Toronto Argonauts? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.