Dorsey leaves Argonauts for NFL's Redskins

Kick-returner Dominique Dorsey became the fourth Toronto Argonaut this off-season to defect to the National Football League.

Dorsey, the Canadian Football League's special-teams player of the year in 2008, has signed with the Washington Redskins, the Argonauts announced Wednesday.

"It was a tough decision to leave," Dorsey, 25, said in a statement. "I showcased my best abilities in Toronto, but needed to pursue this opportunity in Washington at this point in my career."

Wide receiver P.K. Sam (Buffalo), cornerback Byron Parker (Philadelphia) and offensive tackle Cliff Washburn (Houston) previously departed for the NFL.

Last season, Dorsey, a California native, established an Argos single-season kickoff yards record (1,257) and single-game kickoff yards mark (225).

Dorsey was a unanimous selection for team most outstanding player and outstanding special-teams player, as well as East Division outstanding special-teams player. For his kick-returning duties, he was named a CFL all-star, division all-star and all-star by the CFL Players' Association.

"He is an amazing person and player who will truly be missed," Argos general manager Adam Rita said in a statement. "He is a hard player to replace, but we … are confident we will bring new and exciting personnel to Toronto."

Dorsey, who arrived in Toronto on July 23, 2007, racked up at least 200 all-purpose yards in nine of 18 regular-season contests during the 2008 campaign. He also topped 300 yards on two occasions, scored four touchdowns and was named CFL special teams player of the week four times.

"I had the most fun playing in the CFL these past two years with the Argos," said the five-foot-seven, 173-pound Dorsey, also a running back. "I'm leaving some warriors who I know are going to contend for a Grey Cup this year."

In related news, the Redskins also signed kicker  Dave Rayner, giving Shaun Suisham of Wallaceburg, Ont., a possible competitor during training camp.

Rayner has played for five teams in four seasons since being picked by Indianapolis in the sixth round of the 2005 NFL draft out of Michigan State. His best season came with Green Bay in 2006, when he made 26 of 35 field goal attempts.

Last season, he spent two games on Cincinnati's roster while regular kicker Shayne Graham was injured.

Suisham started well last year but struggled late in the season. He made 26 of 36 tries, the worst accuracy rate among kickers with more than 10 attempts.