WR Williams involved in Manziel trade in CFL

MONTREAL —Montreal wide receiver Chris Williams, a former New Mexico State University standout, was a key piece in a trade for former Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel.

Montreal acquired Manziel and offensive linemen Tony Washington and Landon Rice from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Sunday for Williams, defensive end Jamaal Westerman and first-round draft picks in 2020 and 2021.

Williams posted 283 receiving yards and a touchdown on 15 catches for the Alouettes.

Montreal made the move a day after starting quarterback Drew Willy sustained his second injury of the season. Montreal backup Jeff Mathews also is out with a foot injury, leaving third-stringer Matt Shiltz to play the final three quarters Saturday night in a 25-8 loss at Calgary.

“We have acquired an exceptional quarterback with undeniable talent,” Alouettes general manager Kavis Reed said in a statement in a team release. “With his great mobility, his athletic abilities and his instinct we believe that he will have a positive impact on our offense. Landon Rice and Tony Washington are two skilled players that will considerably solidify our offensive line.”

Making a comeback after being released by the Cleveland Browns in March 2016, Manziel was unable to get on the field in Hamilton behind starter Jeremiah Masoli. In two preseason games, the former Texas &M star was 21 of 32 for 168 yards and a touchdown.

Alouettes coach Mike Sherman recruited Manziel to Texas A&M when he was the Aggies’ head coach.