All-star defensive back Jamal Peters re-signs with Tiger-Cats for two years

Toronto Argonauts wide receiver David Ungerer (83) is tackled by Hamilton Tiger-Cats defensive back Jamal Peters (2) during second half CFL action in Toronto, on Friday, July 4, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sammy Kogan (Sammy Kogan)

HAMILTON — Jamal Peters is staying put.

The all-star cornerback signed a two-year extension with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Wednesday. Peters, 28, was slated to become a free agent in February.

Peters’ extension keeps him in Hamilton through the 2027 season. According to a league source, Peters’ deal is worth $355,000 guaranteed, which would make Peters the CFL’s highest-paid American defensive back.

The source spoke on the condition of anonymity as the Ticats didn’t divulge financial details of contracts.

Peters, 28, appeared in 16 games this season with Hamilton, registering 50 defensive tackles and six interceptions. He was named a CFL all-star for the second time. Peters joined the Ticats as a free agent in February 2024 and signed a one-year extension later that season.

“When I signed here in 2024, the organization welcomed me with open arms, and I have loved it here since,” said Peters in a statement. “They treat my family well. My wife and I just had a kid and they’re just a great family organization.

“We have unfinished business in 2026 and for those reasons, it was obvious for me to re-sign.”

Before arriving in Hamilton, he spent three seasons with the Toronto Argonauts (2021-23), helping the team win the Grey Cup in 2022.

Over five CFL seasons and 66 regular-season games, he has recorded 208 defensive tackles, four special teams tackles, 21 interceptions, two forced fumbles and one quarterback sack.

“Jamal is a difference-maker and has been a premier defensive back in our league,” said Tiger-Cats head coach Scott Milanovich. “His combination of size, playmaking ability, and competitiveness elevates our entire defence.

“We’re extremely excited to keep Jamal in the black and gold for him and his family to continue their journey here in Hamilton.”

A Mississippi State alum, Peters played 45 games over four seasons (2015-18) before signing with the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent. He also spent time with the Atlanta Falcons in 2023.

Peters said that Hamilton itself influenced his decision to stay with the Ticats.

“The city kind of reminds me of my hometown of Bassfield, Mississippi,” said Peters. “It’s very similar to Hamilton, so I just wanted to be here.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 10, 2025.