Toronto Argonauts: 5 things to know about new DL Alani Pututau

We take an in-depth look at new defensive lineman Alani Pututau, who represents an intriguing signing for the Toronto Argonauts.

The Toronto Argonauts had a disappointing end to their 2021 season, as they lost to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the Eastern Final. As a result, the Double Blue are now firmly focused on improving the roster and making another run at a Grey Cup appearance.

As part of this process, the Argonauts ended the year by signing defensive lineman Alani Pututau. The American was most recently with the Atlanta Falcons, but never actually suited up in a game for them.

The question is, what does Pututau bring to the Argos? Let’s take a look at his football career to date, to get an idea of what impact he can potentially have in Toronto:

1) Pututau played two seasons for the Snow College Badgers including 2016, when he registered 50 tackles, 16 tackles for a loss (TFL) and 5.0 sacks during 10 games in 2016. He followed this up the next year with 16 tackles, 5.5 TFL and 3.5 sacks in six games.

2) As reported by Kyle Newman of the Denver Post, Pututau then took time off as he dealt with the death of two close friends; one was as a result of gang violence and the other was by drowning. He also got married, had a daughter and unexpectedly lost his dad.

3) Pututau returned to football in 2019, and was exceptional during his one season at Adams State. As per NFL.com, he finished with 63 tackles in 11 games, ranked third in Division II with 24.5 TFL and tied for third with 13.5 sacks.

4) The Victorville, California native’s success resulted in him being a first-team All-Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference selection. However, he was unable to build on this as Adams State did not play in 2020, due to the COVID-19 situation.

5) As per his scouting report at NFL.com, Pututau’s strengths include pure acceleration to legitimately challenge the edge, an explosive first two steps off the ball and a sudden lateral shot on inside moves. His weaknesses include limited hand usage which can prevent workable counters, along with below-average instincts and awareness versus the run game.

Ahead of the 2021 NFL draft, Pututau talked about his journey and what motivates him. As per Newman, he said:

"“I felt like I needed to do something more in my life to chase the dreams that I do have. That’s why I got back in (the game) and went to Adams. You never know when your time will come and when you will get that call… (The memory) of my dad and the love from my family now, they definitely push me.”"

After not being picked in the NFL draft and failing to making an impression in Atlanta, a lot of doubts remain about Pututau. However, he has already shown his mental fortitude by overcoming a lot of adversity in his life, and Toronto could be just the place for him to prove himself and shine.

What is your opinion about the signing of Pututau? What kind of impact do you predict he will have for the Toronto Argonauts? Let us know in the comments section below.