MISSISSAUGA, Ont. - The Cleo Lemon era with the Toronto Argonauts is over.
The Argos released the veteran quarterback Tuesday, less than two seasons after signing him to be their starter.
The former NFL pivot had an 11-14 record over 25 games with Toronto. Lemon, who also played in two playoff games with the Argos, was just 2-6 under centre this season.
The Argos released Lemon after he was benched in the second half of their 29-16 home loss to the B.C. Lions on Friday night. Lemon was 11-of-15 passing versus the Lions for just 57 yards.
Head coach Jim Barker revealed few details Tuesday when asked about the decision.
The move comes as veteran quarterback Steven Jyles is scheduled to come off the nine-game injury list this week. He took the majority of the first-team snaps at practice Tuesday and Barker said he will get the start for Saturday's game at B.C.
Lemon completed 430-of-680 passes with Toronto (63.2 per cent) for 5,069 yards but had more interceptions (23) than touchdowns (22).
Toronto also added rookie quarterback Zack Eskridge on the practice roster.
