The Ottawa Redblacks made a notable roster change this week by releasing defensive back Adarius Pickett. The 29-year-old player, standing at five feet eleven inches and weighing 210 pounds, originally re-joined the Redblacks on January 24, 2025. During his latest season with the team, Pickett recorded impressive stats, achieving 84 tackles, including 14 on special teams, as well as two sacks and one interception over 18 games, earning him recognition as a CFL East All-Star.
Prior to his tenure with the Redblacks, Pickett’s professional journey began with the Chicago Bears, who signed him as an undrafted free agent on May 3, 2019; however, he was released just three days later. Subsequently, the Los Angeles Chargers saw potential in Pickett and signed him on May 16, 2019. He played a brief stint with the Chargers, making 17 tackles and one pass breakup during the 2019 preseason before being released in October. He also spent time with the New England Patriots.
Pickett then found a more stable environment with the Montreal Alouettes, signing with the team on June 9, 2021. He played for Montreal for two years, accumulating 96 tackles, 19 special teams tackles, five sacks, two interceptions, one touchdown, and forcing three fumbles across 30 games. His contributions caught the attention of the Toronto Argonauts, who signed him on February 14, 2023. In that season, he excelled, amassing 105 tackles, including 19 on special teams, six sacks, and one forced fumble. His performance was recognized once again, earning him both CFL East All-Star and CFL All-Star honors.
After his impressive stint with the Argonauts, the Redblacks signed Pickett on February 5, 2024. However, his 2024 season was cut short due to a season-ending Achilles injury, limiting him to 13 games where he recorded 52 tackles, 14 special teams tackles, one sack, one interception, and one forced fumble.
Before entering the professional arena, Pickett had a standout college career at UCLA, where he played four seasons and totaled 274 tackles, seven interceptions, 20 pass breakups, and was named Second Team All-PAC 12 in 2018 for his exceptional performance.
As the Redblacks move forward, they will continue to seek new talent and shore up their defense, while Pickett’s journey through the professional ranks exemplifies the determination and resilience often seen in athletes.