The Calgary Stampeders have made a significant addition to their roster by signing American return specialist and running back Tyreik McAllister, the 2023 CFL leader in all-purpose yards. This move bolsters the team's special teams and offensive capabilities as they prepare for the upcoming season.
McAllister's Impressive 2023 CFL Season
During his 2023 campaign with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, McAllister demonstrated exceptional versatility and production across multiple facets of the game. In 16 games, he accumulated nearly 2,500 all-purpose yards through various contributions:
- 41 kickoff returns for 1,037 yards
- 56 punt returns for 602 yards
- 7 missed-field goal returns for 408 yards and one touchdown
- 27 receptions for 364 yards and two touchdowns
- 13 carries for 52 yards
His total of 2,463 all-purpose yards led the entire Canadian Football League that season, earning him recognition as one of the league's most dynamic players. Additionally, his kickoff return average was the highest in the CFL, showcasing his elite skills in that specialized role.
League Recognition and NFL Transition
McAllister's outstanding performance in 2023 earned him the Hamilton Tiger-Cats' nomination for the CFL's Most Outstanding Special Teams Player award. Following his successful CFL season, the 5-foot-10, 185-pound native of Latta, South Carolina, transitioned to the National Football League, signing with the Las Vegas Raiders.
During his time with the Raiders, McAllister made his mark by scoring two touchdowns in a 2024 preseason game and later appearing in three regular-season contests. This NFL experience adds valuable professional exposure to his already impressive football resume.
Recent Professional Journey and Collegiate Background
Most recently, McAllister was under contract with the Columbus Aviators of the United Football League before joining the Calgary Stampeders. The versatile athlete, who turns 28 on April 17, brings a wealth of experience from his collegiate career at Charleston, where he played 38 games over five seasons from 2017 to 2021.
As a senior with the Charleston Golden Eagles in 2021, McAllister distinguished himself by averaging 7.6 yards per carry, ranking third nationally in that category. His exceptional performance earned him the Mountain East Conference's Offensive Player of the Year award. He also received first-team all-MEC honours in each of his final two collegiate seasons, demonstrating consistent excellence throughout his college football career.
The Calgary Stampeders' acquisition of Tyreik McAllister represents a strategic move to enhance their special teams unit and add offensive depth. His proven ability to contribute in multiple roles—as a return specialist, receiver, and running back—makes him a valuable asset for the team as they aim to improve their performance in the upcoming CFL season.
