ARGONAUTS.CA
MISSISSAUGA – The Toronto Argonauts announced today that the Kissing Bandit, DL Adriano Belli, has come out of retirement and signed a practice roster agreement with the club.
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Commented Jim Barker, “We searched the CFL for a Canadian defensive lineman that would fit our system. We felt that if Adriano wanted to play, and was in good shape, then he could be that guy for us. We’re happy to have him join our practice roster and be back in Double Blue.”
Known around the CFL as the ‘Kissing Bandit’ for his European-style greetings and celebrations, Belli’s dominant play up front made him one of the most feared defensive players in the league. In ten CFL seasons, the former CFL All-Star (2005) and two-time East Division All-Star (2005, 2007) played in three Grey Cup championships, winning one with Montreal in 2002. During his CFL career, Belli made seven post-season appearances, including five Division Finals. In 140 regular season games, he made 209 DT and 28 QB sacks. In 2011, he was a member of Team Canada that won a silver medal at the IFAF Senior World Championship held in Vienna, Austria.
Commented Belli, “I truly think CFL quarterbacks missed me, and I missed them. I feel like a rookie again. My body feels great and I’m ready to play. Playing in the world championship last year reminded me how much I love the game, and I think this Argos team has a real chance to be in the Grey Cup game right in here my hometown.”
The club also announced that imports LB Jerome Boyd and WR Chansi Stuckey have signed practice roster agreements with the club. Imports OL Jake Anderson, K/P Josh Jasper and DL Ayanga Okpokowuruk have all been removed from the team’s practice roster.