OTTAWA, Canada – Former Drake Bulldog Matt Acree (Shawnee, Kan.) signed with the Ottawa REDBLACKS of the Canadian Football League, the team announced on Friday, May 15.

“The Drake football family couldn't be more excited for and proud of Matt Acree.  He was a dominant force on the defensive line for us and I am confident Matt has the ability to do the same in the Canadian Football League,” said Drake head coach Rick Fox. “In addition, Ottawa signed a great leader and man of character who will make an impact off the field as well.  Matt joins Brett Park, currently playing for the Iowa Barnstormers, as the second member of the 2014 team playing professionally.”

Acree earned All-Pioneer Football League honors three times, and was the lone unanimous selection to the All-PFL first team in 2014, garnering a first-team vote on every ballot. The defensive lineman recorded 12.5 tackles for loss and a PFL-best 8.5 sacks in addition to his 29 tackles and two blocked kicks. Acree was also a major contributor to Drake's back-to-back PFL championships in 2011 and 2012.