Calgary Stampeders Secure Defensive Star Clarence Hicks with Three-Year Contract Extension
In a move that solidifies their defensive core for the foreseeable future, the Calgary Stampeders have successfully re-signed star defensive lineman Clarence Hicks to a significant three-year contract. The agreement, announced on Wednesday, prevents the talented pass-rusher from entering free agency and represents what many consider to be the most crucial signing of the off-season for General Manager and Head Coach Dave Dickenson.
A Key Piece in the Stampeders' Defensive Puzzle
Clarence Hicks, at just 27 years old and entering what should be the prime of his career, has quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the Stampeders' defense. His importance to the team was underscored in the 2025 season when he was named to the CFL West Division All-Star team and received the nomination as the Stampeders' Most Outstanding Player.
"You've got to have pass-rushers to win in our league, and Clarence is one of the best," said Dave Dickenson following the contract signing. "We're committed to keeping our young talent and developing our players."
The three-year pact keeps Hicks in Calgary through at least the 2028 season, providing stability for both the player and the organization as they look to build upon their recent successes.
Building a Legacy in Calgary
For Hicks, the decision to re-sign with the Stampeders was about more than just football—it was about building something lasting in the community.
"We're building something in Calgary, and I want to be a part of that," Hicks said. "I want to create a legacy with Calgary. I have great relationships with many people on this team and also with Coach Dave. I want to play for the Red and White the rest of my career."
This commitment comes despite interest from other teams and Hicks' previous experiences in both the NFL and XFL, demonstrating his genuine connection to the Stampeders organization and the city of Calgary.
Impressive Performance Despite Adversity
Hicks' 2025 season was particularly remarkable considering the challenges the Stampeders' defense faced. When teammate and fellow rush-end Folarin Orimolade suffered a torn Achilles mid-season, Hicks stepped up his game even further, finishing the year with a team-leading 12 sacks.
His complete 2025 regular-season statistics demonstrate his all-around impact on the field:
- Started all 18 regular-season games at defensive end
- Recorded 28 tackles, including five for losses
- Forced two fumbles
- Registered six knockdowns
The native of Pensacola, Florida also started the CFL's Western Semifinal against the BC Lions, contributing three tackles in the postseason contest.
A Proven Track Record of Success
Since joining the Stampeders in 2024, Hicks has compiled impressive career numbers over 36 regular-season games:
- 42 total tackles, including seven for loss
- 16 sacks
- Two forced fumbles
- Seven knockdowns
- One special-teams stop
Prior to his CFL career, Hicks demonstrated his potential at multiple levels of football. He attended training camp with the NFL's Cincinnati Bengals in 2022 and played 10 games for the XFL's Seattle Sea Dragons in 2023. His college career at the University of Texas at San Antonio was equally impressive, where he set a single-season school record with 10.5 sacks in 2021 and earned first-team Conference USA all-star honors as a linebacker.
With this contract extension, the Calgary Stampeders have secured not just a talented player, but a leader who wants to build something special in the city. At 6-foot-2 and 229 pounds, Hicks brings both physical presence and proven production to a defensive line that will be crucial to the team's success in the coming seasons.
