The BC Lions have announced that receiver Marco Iannuzzi has signed a contract extension. The speedy Canadian wideout was set to enter the option year of his original contract this season.

“Marco has shown steady improvement in the past two years and we expect him to be an important piece of our offence in the future,” said vice president of football operations and GM Wally Buono.

Originally drafted in the first round (sixth overall) of the 2011 CFL Draft, Iannuzzi has recorded 38 receptions for 418 yards and five touchdowns over 31 career appearances for the Leos.

 “Marco is gifted receiver who works extremely hard,” said Lions head coach Mike Benevides. “He’s part of a solid core of young receivers that we have a lot of confidence in and I’m very pleased to have him with us moving forward.”

The Lions are still hoping to re-sign defensive veterans Dante March and Anton McKenzie before training camp.