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Montrealer signs with Jets

Montrealer signs with Jets

Étienne Boulay, a Montreal native who played NCAA football at New Hampshire, has signed a free agent contract with the New York Jets and will have a chance to crack the roster this fall.

"I'm very optimistic," the Alouettes safety told the Montreal Gazette. "I believe in my abilities and I think I have what it takes to play in that league. I don't know how long the journey will go, but I'll fight hard."

According to the Gazette, Boulay, 24, attracted numerous teams with his speed and footwork.

The 5-foot-9, 187 pound defensive back also worked out for the Buffalo Bills last Tuesday, but was signed by the Jets the same day he worked out for general manager Mike Tannenbaum.

His one-year contract (for the league minimum salary, which is $370,000 in 2008)in New York is contingent upon making the team.

Boulay spent the past two seasons with the CFL Alouettes.

"This is a dream I've been chasing since I was a kid," Boulay, told the Gazette. "Playing in Montreal was a dream of mine, which I achieved two years ago. But this is the NFL. It's prestigious and the best league. It was a big goal and I'm very emotional. I can say I've achieved my dream.

"I'm conscious that now it comes down to timing and fitting into the right situation. I must fit a team's system and its mentality. You also need some luck. It could go either way. It's a long process. I'm very aware of that."