Belgian defensive lineman Tibo Debaillie, who was picked 20th overall in the CFL Global Draft by the Edmonton Elks, has officially joined the CFL team following final cuts this past weekend.
The 6′2, 285 pound native of Gistel, Belgium, learned to play football with his local team the Ostend Pirates. Debaillie’s size and athleticism quickly caught the attention of NCAA recruiters as he moved on to play college football at Towson University. In his three seasons as a member of the Tigers, he played in 22 games recording 28 tackles, three tackles for loss, and one and a half sacks.
The Belgian will be joined by Danish offensive lineman Steven Neilsen as the two Global players on the Elk’s active roster. Debaillie is set to become the second Belgium-born player to suit up for Edmonton (Pierre Vercheval – 1988-92).
Edmonton kicks off the Canadian Football League season on August 8 with an away game against the Ottawa Redblacks.