Blue Bombers add two to roster

Blue Bombers add two to roster - March 22, 2023

WINNIPEG, MB., March 22, 2023 - The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the signing of two American players - defensive back/kick returner Will Allen, Jr. and receiver Michael Young, Jr.

Allen, Jr. (5-9, 180, Columbia University; born: October 10, 1999, in Omaha, NEB) played four years with the Columbia Lions, earning All-Ivy League Honors in 2017 and 2021 after playing in 38 games, with 27 starts. Allen, Jr. ranks second in Columbia history in career blocked kicks with five, holds the school record for kickoff return average (26.1 yards) and as a three-year starter at cornerback, made 61 tackles, four tackles for loss, three interceptions and 17 pass breakups. He had a brief stint with the Miami Dolphins in 2022.

Allen, Jr. is the son of William Allen, who played 11 years in the NFL with the New York Giants, Dolphins and New England Patriots.

Young, Jr. (5-10, 185, University of Cincinnati; born: February 11, 1999, in St. Rose, LA) played his college ball at both Cincinnati (2020-21) and Notre Dame (2017-19) and had NFL looks last year with both the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans.

Young, Jr. played in 12 games over three seasons with the Fighting Irish before transferring to the Bearcats in 2022. He had 28 receptions for 353 yards and two touchdowns in 11 games for Cincinnati in 2021 and had 29 catches for 332 yards and three scores in 2020.