The Toronto Argonauts added some depth to their backfield, signing former NFL running back Steve Slaton to a contract Thursday.
The 2008 Houston Texans third-round pick hasn’t played professionally since 2011.
After a strong rookie season with the Texans — rushing for 1,282 yards and nine touchdowns — his production declined dramatically until the Miami Dolphins claimed him off waivers in 2011. He played only three games for the Dolphins, which cut him prior to the next season.
The import out of West Virginia is still his school’s all-time leader in touchdowns. The 28-year-old was named Big East Rookie of the Year in 2005 and helped lead his team to two bowl championships during his three-year college career.
The Argos also released import RB Tristan Davis.
Slaton will have to compete with the likes of Chad Kackert, fellow NFL veterans Jerious Norwood and Curtis Steele, plus a handful of other running backs for a spot on the roster.
If he can regain some of the form he showed with the Texans, the move could pay off for the Argos.
