EMANUEL DAVIS ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

All-Star defensive back retires after six-year playing career

After six seasons in the Canadian Football League, including five seasons with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, defensive back Emanuel Davis announced his retirement Thursday.

Davis, 31, appeared in 79 career CFL games (77 starts) with the Tiger-Cats (2013-17) and Calgary Stampeders (2018), registering 246 defensive tackles, eight tackles for loss, 24 special teams tackles, 14 interceptions (four returned for touchdowns), 37 pass knock downs, one quarterback sack, six forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries. The 5-11, 178-pound native of Manteo, North Carolina was named a CFL All-Star in 2015 and an East Division All-Star twice with the Tiger-Cats (2015, 2016), and won the 106th Grey Cup as a member of the Stampeders in 2018.

“Emanuel Davis was an integral part of helping build the foundation of our defence here in Hamilton beginning in 2013,” said Orlondo Steinauer, Head Coach of the Tiger-Cats. “On behalf of the Tiger-Cats family, I’d like to congratulate Emanuel on a great CFL career and wish him and his family all the best in their next chapter.”

The East Carolina University product also played in five career CFL playoff games and two Grey Cup games, including the 101st Grey Cup with Hamilton versus Saskatchewan in 2013. Prior to joining the Tiger-Cats, Davis signed as an undrafted free agent and attended training camp with the National Football League’s Cleveland Browns in 2012.

STATEMENT FROM DAVIS:

“I’m thankful to the Hamilton Tiger Cats organization for giving me the opportunity to play the game I love. I’d like to thank the fans and City of Hamilton for supporting me throughout my journey in the CFL. I’m honored to have been a part of such a wonderful organization and community. To my teammates, managers and coaches, thank you for the lifelong memories and friendships. To my parents, wife, family and friends, thank you for the continuous support, encouragement and inspiration. Nothing will ever compare to the love and passion I have for the game of football, however I know this next phase of my life being a husband and father will be just as amazing. I’m blessed to have been given the opportunity to do what I love for so long. Now it’s time to take my skill set and help others as people have helped me.”