VANCOUVER 芒鈧珺次元官网网址� The B.C. Lions signed offensive lineman Hunter Steward to a one-year contract on Wednesday.

He was eligible to become a free agent next week. 

"Hunter is a young and talented offensive lineman who continues to improve each year," Lions general manager and head coach Wally Buono said in a release. "Success on offence begins with the ability to run the ball and protect the quarterback and Hunter plays a significant role in that success."

Steward was the Lions' first selection (sixth overall) in the 2013 CFL Draft. He made his pro debut a year later and has logged 28 appearances for the club over his career, including all 18 regular-season games in 2016.

"It's great to be back for this year," said Steward. "We have established a lot of chemistry on offence and the opportunity to pick up where we left off last season is going to be a big positive."

The Canadian Press