The Ottawa Redblacks announced the signing of wide receiver Andy Isabella while placing fellow receiver Robert Lewis on the retired list on Thursday. This roster update brings a new dynamic to the team as Isabella, a seasoned professional, joins the squad amid Lewis’s exit from professional football.
Andy Isabella’s Professional Football Journey
Andy Isabella, a 29-year-old wide receiver from Mayfield, Ohio, stands five feet nine inches tall and weighs 188 pounds. After re-signing on December 20, 2024, Isabella attended training camp with the Redblacks but had most recently been released by the St. Louis Battlehawks on March 20, 2025. He previously spent several years in the NFL, initially drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round as the 62nd overall pick in the 2019 draft.
During his four seasons with the Cardinals, Isabella recorded 33 receptions for 447 yards and three touchdowns across 39 games, while also contributing as a runner and returner. After being released by Arizona in October 2022, he signed briefly with the Baltimore Ravens, appearing in two games with limited action. Later, Isabella joined the Buffalo Bills but was released before the 2024 regular season after preseason appearances. His short stints continued with the Battlehawks and Pittsburgh Steelers practice squad before the Redblacks agreement.
Collegiate Achievements Highlighting Isabella’s Career
At the University of Massachusetts, Isabella played four seasons from 2015 to 2018, amassing 231 catches for 3,526 yards and 30 touchdowns. His versatility was evident with carries, kickoffs, punt returns, and tackles recorded during his collegiate tenure. Recognized for his excellence, he earned multiple honors, including being a two-time First Team All-Independent selection by Phil Steele, All-ECAC Second Team, and First Team All-American by FWAA, Walter Camp, and AFCA. Isabella also received the George H. Bulger Lowe Award, presented by the Gridiron Club of Greater Boston to the top player in New England.
Robert Lewis’s Background and Career Details
Robert Lewis, who is five feet ten inches tall and weighs 185 pounds, hails from Covington, Georgia. He entered professional football as an undrafted free agent, signing with the Minnesota Vikings on May 9, 2025. Lewis appeared in one preseason game for the Vikings, making a reception of 13 yards before his release in late August 2025.
Following this, the Ottawa Redblacks signed Lewis to their practice squad in October 2025, briefly releasing and then re-signing him within the same month before his retirement. Collegiately, Lewis played at Georgia State from 2020 to 2023, with 90 catches for 1,019 yards and 10 touchdowns over 32 games. His senior year included a Third Team All-Sun Belt recognition, highlighted by 61 receptions, 618 yards, four touchdowns, and six kickoff returns for 130 yards in 10 games. He transferred to Auburn in 2024, recording 16 catches for 155 yards in 11 games.
Implications of the Roster Moves for Ottawa Redblacks
The addition of Andy Isabella to the Ottawa Redblacks signals the team’s intent to bolster its receiving corps with a player who has both professional experience and proven collegiate success. Isabella’s diverse skill set as a receiver and return specialist may provide added versatility on offense and special teams. Meanwhile, Robert Lewis’s retirement marks the end of his short professional tenure but reflects the fluid nature of player careers in modern football.
Looking ahead, Isabella’s signing could influence the Redblacks’ offensive strategies as they prepare for upcoming competitions, offering new options in the passing game. The team will likely monitor his integration during practice and early-season play to assess his impact on the field.
