Quarterback Vernon Adams among three players released by Hamilton Tiger-Cats

CALGARY – Veteran quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. was among three players released by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Thursday.

The move comes roughly two weeks after Ticats head coach June Junes told reporters the club was about to trade Adams. The deal never materialized, and Adams returned to Hamilton as a receiver.

Hamilton acquired Adams from the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the deal that sent rush-end Charleston Hughes to Regina. But Adams became expendable after the Ticats signed former Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel, who became starter Jeremiah Masoli’s backup.

Adams began his CFL career in 2016 with Montreal.

Hamilton also released Canadian long-snapper Kevin Malcolm and American receiver Bryce Wilkerson.

After dropping its season opener 28-14 to Calgary last weekend, the Ticats remained in Alberta preparing for their game Friday night in Edmonton versus the Eskimos.