WINNIPEG, MB., – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have announced the addition of two American players to their roster, signing offensive lineman Christophe Atkinson and defensive end Ryan Johnson.
Christophe Atkinson (OL, Ohio)
- Height/Weight: 6’4″, 308 lbs
- Born: February 21, 2001 (Leesburg, VA)
- College: Ohio University (2019-2024)
Atkinson arrives in Winnipeg after an impressive six-year collegiate career at Ohio University. The standout lineman played 48 games from 2021 to 2024, earning a starting role in 30 contests. He was a reliable force in the trenches for the Bobcats, helping the team generate 37 touchdowns in 2023 and 53 touchdowns in 2024.
A strong performer both on and off the field, Atkinson earned four consecutive Academic All-MAC honors (2021-2024) and was selected to the Academic All-District Team in both 2022 and 2023. He recently participated in Ohio’s Pro Day in late March, showcasing his skills for professional scouts.
Ryan Johnson (DE, Southern Mississippi)
- Height/Weight: 6’3″, 255 lbs
- Born: January 27, 2001 (Starkville, MS)
- College: Southern Mississippi (2024), Akron University (2021-2023), Junior College (2019-2020)
Johnson signs with the Blue Bombers following a six-year collegiate journey, beginning at the junior college level before moving on to Akron University (2021-2023) and later Southern Mississippi (2024).
During his final season at Southern Mississippi, Johnson registered 23 tackles (12 solo, 11 assists), along with three sacks and four tackles-for-loss (28 yards) in 12 games (six starts). His tenure at Akron saw him play 26 games (10 starts), recording 44 tackles (22 solo, 22 assists), two sacks, 4.5 tackles-for-loss (14 yards), and a knockdown.
With both Atkinson and Johnson joining the roster, the Blue Bombers continue to enhance their depth in the trenches as they prepare for the upcoming season.