No CFL Return for Former BC Lions QB Nathan Rourke, Sticking in NFL

Originally posted on CFL on FanNation | By Anthony Miller | Last updated 3/3/24

Former BC Lions quarterback Nathan Rourke is staying in the NFL after re-signing with the New England Patriots.

Rourke played two seasons with the Lions, throwing for 3,349 yards and 25 touchdowns in 2022. He won the CFL’s Most Outstanding Canadian award that same year, leading BC to the playoffs. His career in the CFL included 4,103 yards and 28 touchdowns, adding 12 rushing scores in 23 games.

The Lions selected him in the second round of the 2020 CFL Draft.

His standout 2023 season landed him a three-year deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars before the 2023 season. Rourke’s 153-yard, two-touchdown performance in the Jaguars' preseason win against the Dallas Cowboys turned plenty of heads in the league.

He didn't make the regular-season roster but was signed to the practice squad. He bounced back and forth on the roster and practice squad before being released in December. New England signed him to the active roster to end the season.

The #Patriots are re-signing former CFL standout QB Nathan Rourke, per source.

New England claimed Rourke off waivers from Jacksonville in December. New regime, but Rourke is returning. pic.twitter.com/tg3RdmcTOL
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 1, 2024

Before going pro, Rourke played 39 games in three seasons with the Ohio Bobcats. He threw for 7,457 yards and 60 touchdowns, while adding 2,639 rushing yards and 49 additional scores. Rourke was named twice to the All-MAC second team.

Rourke will likely be battling for a roster spot going into his second season in the NFL.

Tom Pelissero reported the Rourke signing signing on Friday.

This article first appeared on CFL on FanNation and was syndicated with permission.

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