Rottier signed with the Edmonton Eskimos on Friday, just two days after being released by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

“Being able to return to Alberta and play for the Eskimos in front of their incredible fans fulfills a lifelong dream of mine," Rottier said in a statement. "The Eskimos have a very bright future and I’m excited to be part of it.

"I’d also like to thank the entire Hamilton Tiger-Cats organization for their support during my time there.”

The six-foot-six, 295-pound Rottier, a native of Westlock, Alta., played his college football at the University of Alberta before being selected first overall by Hamilton in the 2009 CFL Canadian college draft.

Rottier's arrival in Edmonton isn't shocking.

Rottier was scheduled to become a free agent Feb. 16 and the prevailing talk was he wanted to return to his home province. Hamilton aggressively attempted to re-sign Rottier in the off-season but when no deal could be reached the club decided to release him before he became a free agent.

"We're absolutely delighted to welcome Simeon back to Alberta as a member of the Edmonton Eskimos," general manager Eric Tillman said. ''Upgrading our offensive line in 2012 is one of our top off-season priorities and this signing is a big step in the right direction.

"Simeon is a young man of exceptional character who will be an excellent representative of our organization in the community.”