Former Steelers RB Joins CFL Team for 2025 CFL Season

Qadree Ollison, a former running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is taking a new step in his football journey by signing with the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League (CFL) for the 2025 season. The Lions announced the signing on social media, highlighting Ollison’s addition as a key move for their backfield.

Ollison’s path to the CFL has been eventful. After signing with the Steelers’ practice squad in September 2023, he was elevated for games against the Cleveland Browns and Las Vegas Raiders. This opportunity arose due to Anthony McFarland Jr.’s injury, but Ollison’s contributions were limited to special teams, where he participated in 11 snaps without recording any offensive stats. His stint with the Steelers ended when he was released in December 2023.

Ollison’s football roots run deep in Pittsburgh, where he played college football for the University of Pittsburgh from 2014 to 2018. During his collegiate career, Ollison made a significant impact, rushing for 2,859 yards and scoring 29 touchdowns, making him one of the top performers in the program’s history. His efforts earned him accolades such as the 2015 ACC Rookie of the Year and two selections to the All-ACC Second Team.

Following his successful college career, Ollison entered the 2019 NFL Draft and was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the fifth round. As a rookie, he showed promise by scoring four touchdowns and gaining 50 yards on 22 carries. However, his role diminished in the following seasons. In 2020, he managed just three yards on a single carry over limited snaps. After a brief re-signing and subsequent release by the Falcons in 2021, he was brought back to the active roster, where he tallied 105 yards and a touchdown over eight games.

Ollison’s journey continued with a brief stint with the Dallas Cowboys in 2022, where he appeared in three games after being signed to their practice squad. Despite showing potential, his career in the NFL faced challenges with consistency and playing time, leading him to explore new opportunities in the CFL.

Now, with the BC Lions, Ollison has a chance to rejuvenate his career. The CFL’s style of play and the Lions’ system may provide the perfect setting for Ollison to showcase his abilities and make a significant impact. His experience and determination could make him a valuable asset to the Lions as they aim for success in the 2025 season.