Former Eagle Olafioye named CFL offensive lineman of the year

Football

Former Eagle Olafioye named CFL offensive lineman of the year

Nov 29, 2012

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Former North Carolina Central University lineman and current BC Lions tackle Jovan Olafioye was named the Canadian Football League’s Most Outstanding Offensive Lineman at the 2012 Gibson’s Finest Player Awards in Toronto on Nov. 22.

After being a finalist in the same category in 2011, Olafioye rebounded in fine form in 2012 to earn his first Most Outstanding Lineman Award.

A native of Detroit, Olafioye anchored a BC offensive line that allowed the club to lead the league in yards-per-game, as well as rushing yards. He was also a part of a Lions offensive line that allowed the fewest sacks in the league.

Olafioye, who has not missed a start in three seasons with the BC Lions, was a CFL All-Star on last year’s Grey Cup championship squad.

He was a two-year starter on the NCCU offensive line during the 2007 and 2008 seasons.

Winners of the 2012 Gibson's Finest CFL Player Awards were selected by 60 voting members, including representation from the Football Reporters of Canada (FRC) from the eight CFL markets, a national chapter and CFL head coaches.

Voters were asked to select players who through on-field performance excellence, best represent the awards’ title: Most Outstanding Player, Most Outstanding Canadian, Most Outstanding Defensive Player, Most Outstanding Offensive Lineman, Most Outstanding Rookie, and Most Outstanding Special Teams Player.