WINNIPEG — Just days after winning the 2019 Grey Cup, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers have released defensive lineman and former Tennessee football player Jonathan Kongbo.
Kongbo’s departure was not for poor performance, as it was a pre-arranged deal after he was taken with the fifth overall pick in the 2019 Canadian League Draft in June.
The former Vol was let go to pursue an opportunity to play in the National Football League.
“When we selected Jonathan in last year’s CFL Draft, he chose to sign with our organization rather than wait a season to continue training,” Winnipeg general manager Kyle Walters said in a statement to the league. “This agreement came with the understanding that if he received any NFL interest, we would work with him to pursue those interests.
“We wish him the best and certainly will welcome his return if nothing comes to fruition in this regard.”
Kongbo played in 12 regular-season games and also appeared in the playoffs. He totaled 12 tackles and one sack this season.