Chuck Winters inks extension with Argos

The Toronto Argonauts signed starting defensive back Chuck Winters to a contract extension Wednesday.

Winters, who posted a career-high 38 tackles last season, will continue to play for the Argos through the 2009 season.

The 33-year-old moved from linebacker to defensive back in 2007, taking over the starting position.

"Chuck personifies everything that our system is designed around, which is speed and intelligence," said defensive co-ordinator Kavis Reed. "He is a stabilizing force with a great understanding of the CFL game."

Winters was typically modest about the signing, choosing to focus on his love of the game and, even more so, his love of Toronto.

"Ultimately, this affords me the chance to play the game I love in the city that I love for the next few years," Winters said.

For three years running, Winters has been the Argonauts' pick for the CFLPA's Tom Pate Award, an honour for charitable contributions and community leadership.

The former Michigan star has made over 150 appearances throughout Toronto as an ambassador for the Argos Foundation and to help local fundraisers, hospitals and soup kitchens.

"In football, you build relationships with those around you on the field, and the community is no different. I have established remarkable relationships within the city of Toronto and I look forward to continuing to build on them," he added.

Toronto head coach Rich Stubler shared his fondness for Winters in a statement.

"He is a very special guy and our friendship dates back to 2000 when he was with the Detroit Fury of the AFL," Stubler said. "Chuck is a consummate team person and he fulfills every role on our defence and special teams that we ask of him."

He praised Winters's versatility, mentioning that the Detroit native filled in as linebacker and played on special teams during the 2007 season.

The Argos also signed cornerback Kellan Quick and defensive back Jason Shivers Wednesday, and let go veteran running back Troy Davis.