HAMILTON, ON – The Hamilton Tiger-Cats have bolstered their roster with the addition of American running back Kevin Brown and Canadian long snapper Simon Chaves, the team announced Tuesday. In a corresponding move, the Ticats have released veteran defensive back Branden Dozier.
Kevin Brown Joins Ticats Backfield
Kevin Brown, 28, arrives in Hamilton after appearing in three games for the Toronto Argonauts earlier this season, where he logged 18 carries for 37 yards and one touchdown. The 5-foot-9, 205-pound native of South Carolina previously played 12 games for the Edmonton Elks in 2024, rushing 101 times for 522 yards and adding 22 receptions for 138 yards.
Brown’s breakout season came in 2023, when he rushed for 1,141 yards and four touchdowns, while catching 28 passes for 222 yards with Edmonton. He also made an impact in 2022, appearing in seven games and recording 486 rushing yards and one touchdown, along with 25 receptions for 176 yards.
A product of Incarnate Word, Brown brings proven CFL experience and versatility to the Tiger-Cats’ backfield.
Simon Chaves Adds Depth at Long Snapper
Simon Chaves, 27, joins the Tiger-Cats after a brief stint with the Argonauts. The Guelph, Ontario native has spent time with multiple CFL teams, including the Ottawa REDBLACKS (2023–2025), Edmonton Elks (2024), and Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2022).
Standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 215 pounds, Chaves played 33 games at the University of Guelph (2017–2023), where he recorded 12 tackles as a linebacker. He also earned recognition as a second-team OUA all-star in wrestling, showcasing his athleticism and physicality.
Ticats Release Veteran DB Branden Dozier
The Tiger-Cats have parted ways with Branden Dozier, who signed with the team in April following a seven-year CFL career. Dozier previously played for Montreal (2017–2018), BC Lions (2019), and Calgary Stampeders (2021–2024).
In 2025, Dozier appeared in four games for Hamilton, registering 13 defensive tackles. His release opens up roster flexibility as the team continues to reshape its defensive unit.
