CFL: BC Lions bring back the Belgian Beast, DT Tibo Debaille

| American Football | 12/01/2022

The BC Lions of the Canadian Football League have brought back standout Global defensive lineman Tibo Debaille.

The 6′2″, 285-pound native of Gistel, Belgium is coming off of a strong season for the Lions where he played in all 18 games, making 20 tackles and three sacks, earning himself consistent playing time in BC’s defensive line rotation. His 2022 season makes him one of the most sought-after global players in the CFL.

Belgian defensive lineman Tibo Debaillie, who was picked 20th overall in the CFL Global Draft by the Edmonton Elks, played three games last season in the CFL, making one tackle. He caught the attention of CFL scouts after a solid collegiate career and an impressive CFL combine where he put up 31 bench press reps of 225 pounds. Deballie was released by the Elks and briefly signed with the Potsdam Royals in Germany before joining the BC Lions.

The 25-year-old learned to play football with his local team the Ostend Pirates. Debaillie’s size and athleticism quickly caught the attention of NCAA recruiters as he moved on to play college football at Towson University (NCAA D1). In his three seasons as a member of the Tigers, he played in 22 games recording 28 tackles, three tackles for loss, and one and a half sacks.

BC Lions General Manager Neil McEvoy:

“Tibo is an amazing young man on and off the field. He is an active member of our defensive front and plays a vital role. He gives us the ability to get fresh legs on the field and not miss a beat. I’m excited to see him get better each and every play.”

Read more on Tibo’s football journey

Alex is a former NCAA and semi-pro American football player who is now located in London, where he works in digital marketing. His goal in writing for AFI is to stay involved with the game that has given him so much. Alex enjoys covering leagues and