Mike Widger was one of the best linebackers of his era or for that matter in the history of the CFL.  Widger played at Virginia Tech and in 1968 was named an Associated Press first team All-American at linebacker. Widger played nine years in the CFL, seven with Montreal (1970-77) and two with Ottawa (1977-78).  In those nine seasons, Widger won six East All-Star selections (1970, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975 and 1977) and four CFL All-Star selections (1973, 1974, 1975 and 1977).  Widger was also the Montreal nominee for Outstanding Defensive Playver in 1974, the first year for the award.

There were no Quarterback Sack or Tackle statistics kept during those years, so much of Widger's very literal impact on the opposing team went unrecorded, but the stats that do exist are impressive.   Widger recorded 10 career interceptions with one returned for a touchdown, and 23 career fumble recoveries, also including a touchdown.  Widger was also extremly durable. While playing in one of the toughest positions in one of the toughest sports, Widger did not miss a single game in his first eight season, and only missed four games in his final season in 1978.  Widger played in three Grey Cup games, winning two of  them (1970 and 1974) and losing one (1975).

Mike Widger passed away on March 3, 2016.

Article on Mike Widger from a 1974 CFL Program

Mike Widger on fanbase.com

Mike Widger in Wikipedia

Widger named All-American - December 5, 1968

Riders Cut Mike Widger - April 19, 1979

Former Als' Star Mike Widger as hard of the field as he played