The Hamilton Tiger-Cats have signed Kenny Lawler to a record-setting contract, TSN Football Insider Dave Naylor reports.
According to Naylor, Lawler has inked a three-year, $1 million contract with a $300,000 salary in 2026 that escalates to $330,000 in 2027 and $370,000 in 2028. It is the biggest receiver deal in the history of the CFL, excluding Rocket Ismail’s 1991 deal with the Toronto Argonauts for personal services.
The Tiger-Cats confirmed later on Tuesday that Lawler has been extended through 2028, though financial details were not released.
“We’re thrilled to sign a long-term extension for one of the great playmakers in CFL history,” president of football operations Orlondo Steinauer said. “His ability to impact the game is unique, and he has quickly become an important leader on our football team. His involvement within the community and the respect he has earned within the organization and our city are what we are all about with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.”
The @Ticats have signed WR Kenny Lawler to a new 3-year $1 million contract … making it the biggest receiver deal in CFL history, aside from the 1991 Rocket Ismail @argos contract for personal services. The 31-year-old Lawler led the @CFL with 16.8 yards per catch last season…
— Dave Naylor (@TSNDaveNaylor) May 26, 2026
Lawler is coming off an extremely successful first season in Hamilton, posting 86 catches for 1,443 yards with 14 touchdowns. He led the CFL with an average of 16.8 yards per reception.
Lawler spent four of the first five seasons of his CFL career with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, put never posted more than 1,014 yards.
The 31-year-old has 342 receptions for 5,551 yards and 39 touchdowns over his CFL career.
Lawler is a two-time Grey Cup champion, a two-time All-CFL selection, was Edmonton’s Most Outstanding Player in 2022 and the Blue Bombers’ Most Outstanding Rookie in 2019.
