The Calgary Stampeders took the first step toward retooling their 2010 lineup Wednesday when the team released two veteran import players.
Running back Demetris Summers, who signed with the Stamps as a free agent in 2008, and linebacker Shannon James, who joined the CFL team in 2006, were both let go.
Stampeders head coach and GM John Hufnagel said Summers and James had played important roles with the team in recent years, including contributing to the Stamps’ Grey Cup championship in 2008.
Addressing his decision to release Summers and James, Hufnagel pointed to a need for the Stampeders to reshape its lineup.
“We’re moving in a different direction this season,” Hufnagel said.
“We wish them the best in their future endeavours.”
James dressed in 56 regular-season games and five playoff contests over four seasons with Calgary.
Summers spent the past two seasons with the club and was primarily a backup running back.
