BC Lions linebacker Jordan Williams shattered a CFL record for a Canadian rookie with 81 defensive tackles in just 12 games this season.
The old mark of 75 was set by Mike O’Shea in 1993. O’Shea is now the head coach of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
The Lions selected Williams first in the 2020 CFL Draft, but he is making his first campaign since the 2020 season has been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Although Williams is a native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, he is considered a Canadian player since his mother was born in Toronto.
In addition to his 81 tackles, Williams has made three sacks and caused two fumbles this season. He also intercepted a pass and recovered a fumble.
Prior to the start of activities this week in the CFL, Williams was second on the league in tackles, behind Avery Williams (83) of the Ottawa Red & Black.
Only two rookies have completed seasons atop the tackle column in the CFL. Linebacker George White had 105 tackles in 18 games with the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2000, then Barrin Simpson set the homerun record for a rookie with 115 tackles in 18 games for the Lions the following season.
Williams and the Lions (4-8) host the Calgary Stampeders (6-6) on Friday.