MONTREAL — Austin Mack didn’t take long to make up his mind.
After being released by the Atlanta Falcons on Aug. 12, there was only one place he wanted to play outside the NFL: with the Montreal Alouettes.
The all-star wide receiver rejoined the CFL club last week and signed a four-year contract extension through the 2028 season on Tuesday.
"For me and my family, I think we're ready to close that chapter," Mack said. "And look forward to this deal as something to create something special here in Canada, and create a legacy.
"That's really where our mindset is. We were blessed and thankful for the opportunity we've had in the NFL and look forward to our next chapter."
The 26-year-old Mack returned to the league-leading Alouettes after signing with the Falcons following last season. He had three receptions for 32 yards in his CFL season debut on Sunday, a 21-17 victory over the Edmonton Elks.
Mack had 78 receptions for 1,154 yards and four touchdowns in 2023, helping Montreal win the Grey Cup.
Long-term contracts are rare in the CFL, but the Alouettes didn’t hesitate to offer one to Mack after his showing last season.
"It fits with what we want to do," Alouettes general manager Danny Maciocia said. “He was looking for stability, but also to be associated with a team that will be competitive every year."
Maciocia said he was clear about needing to keep some money to sign other players and remain under the salary cap.
“I told him that here, we don’t have the highest-paid head coach in the league, nor the highest-paid general manager or quarterback,” he said. “We’re happy with our salaries, and I told him that if he wanted to approach the situation with us in the same way, then it would work out. He got his fair value, I can guarantee you that, and by settling in Montreal, he’ll also have other opportunities (to supplement that salary).”
Mack gained more than 100 yards in a game five times over 17 regular-season outings last year. He finished fifth in the league in receiving yards.
The six-foot-two 205-pound native of Fort Wayne, Ind., was named an East Division and CFL all-star last season.
"I'm looking forward to the memories that I'm going to create here," Mack said. "And definitely winning a lot of football games."
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 27, 2024.
Frédéric Daigle, The Canadian Press
