Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, May 24, 1990 TAG: 9005240615
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: C-6 EDITION: EVENING
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA LENGTH: Short
The mail brought a signed CFL contract from Major Harris, the controversial quarterback from the University of West Virgina.
"The Major signed his contract - I've seen it," said B.C. general manager Joe Kapp. "We're excited about the prospects of him joining our team, coming to camp, competing for a job.
"We think he's the type of talent that . . . can help our football team."
Harris, 22, agreed verbally to terms last week after a visit from Lion head coach Lary Kuharich, but the signed contract took more than a week to reach the anxious B.C. front office.
The Lions have searched for a quarterback since veteran Matt Dunigan was traded to the Toronto Argonauts two months ago following a contract dispute.
Harris elected to leave the American college ranks before his senior season. He was selected in the 12th round of the NFL draft last month by the Los Angeles Raiders.
"Major is getting major-league money to play in the Canadian Football League," said Kapp. "He's happy with it, or else he wouldn't have signed."
The Lions obtained the CFL rights to Harris two days after the Dunigan trade. They sent veteran defensive end James Parker to the Argos for the negotiating rights to Harris.
by CNB