Argonauts sign OTs Murphy, Picard

Feb 17, 2009 - 11:09 PM TORONTO (Ticker) -- The Toronto Argonauts on Tuesday signed offensive tackles Rob Murphy and Dominic Picard to contacts.

Terms of the deals were not disclosed.

Murphy, who played his college football at Ohio State, was named the CFL's Most Outstanding Lineman in 2006 and 2007 with the B.C. Lions. The 31-year-old was named a CFL All-Star in both seasons and is a three-time West Division All-Star at offensive tackle (2006-08).

"It's been a good run in B.C. but with the birth of the triplets this year, it has changed our priorities and we wanted to be closer to where we live in the U.S.," Murphy said. "Toronto is a great situation with a new coach. I'm anxious to meet my new teammates and catch up with guys on the team I know who I played with south of the border."

The 302-pound Picard has played three seasons with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

"I'm very excited about joining this organization and I can't wait to start the season," Picard said. "It is a lot closer to home for me and the organization really seemed like they wanted me. They have made me feel very welcome."