Sean Lemon retires after leading the Als to a Gray Cup victory

One of the mainstays on Calgary's 2014 Gray Cup-winning team announced Wednesday that he is calling it quits.

Veteran defensive lineman Sean Lemon, who won three Gray Cups with three different organizations, has announced his retirement from the CFL.

Lemon, 35, signed a one-year contract extension with the Montreal Alouettes in December.

Lemon joined the Alouettes last season after the BC Lions cut him during training camp due to Canadian eligibility requirements.

After acquiring Lemon, Montreal went 12-4, including the postseason, and qualified for the Gray Cup championship. He had 26 tackles for loss, nine sacks, two interceptions and one forced fumble in 13 regular-season games.

The Charleston product also picked up his 100th CFL sack.

Lemon began his professional career as a practice roster player with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2011 and has spent time with every CFL team except the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, winning a Gray Cup with Calgary in 2014 and Toronto in 2017.

Lemon had one of his best years with the Stampeders in 2022, finishing second in the league in sacks.

“Hone your craft and believe in it. Follow your game plan and you know I don't think 34 is really old, you know what I mean?” he said.

“You change your workouts based on how your body feels, but like I said, I feel great,” he said. “I feel like I'm 23, and I'm not just saying that – I'm being honest.

Calgary Stampeders' Sean Lemon (40) celebrates with Edmonton Elks quarterback Trevor Harris (7) and Andrew Seinet-Spaulding (96) during the second half of the CFL tournament Saturday, Sept. 11, 2021, in Edmonton, Alta. (THE CANADIAN PRESS) /Amber Bracken)

Lemon X released his retirement post Wednesday, thanking CFL and Canadian football fans for their support throughout his 14-year career.

“You guys have been amazing to me throughout my career,” he said. “I remember the first time I came to Canada when I signed for the Canadian Football League. Who knew my life would change for the better? I enjoyed every moment I played, every game, every stadium.”

“This game,” he continued, “has allowed me to develop wonderful relationships that I cherish and hold dear to my heart.”

“As the late, great Kobe Bryant said, 'You are responsible for how people remember you… so leave it all on the field, leave the game better than you found it. And when it's time for you to leave, leave a legend.”

With files from Glen Campbell and The Canadian Press.

Defensive lineman Sean Lemon isn't getting old, he's getting better and the Stampeders will take him. Glenn Campbell reports.