Kienan LaFrance

Kienan LaFrance (born May 16, 1991) is a Canadian former professional football running back who is currently the running backs coach for the Manitoba Bisons of U Sports football. He made his professional debut for the Ottawa Redblacks, where he won the 104th Grey Cup in 2016, and has also been a member of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Saskatchewan Roughriders, and BC Lions.

Professional career

Ottawa Redblacks LaFrance was drafted in the sixth round, 45th overall by the Ottawa Redblacks in the 2015 CFL draft. He was officially signed on May 25, 2015. After minimal usage his rookie season, LaFrance developed into a rotational player on offense and special teams, especially when starting running back William Powell was lost to injury.

On November 20, 2016 in the postseason, LaFrance rushed for 157 yards and scored the game-winning touchdown to send the Redblacks back to the Grey Cup for the second straight season. Ottawa went on to win the Grey Cup, with LaFrance as the game's leading rusher with 42 yards on 11 carries, and also pitching in 31 receiving yards.

Saskatchewan Roughriders (first stint) On February 14, 2017, LaFrance signed with the Saskatchewan Roughriders (CFL). He dressed in 13 regular games and started six of them, recording 68 carries for 273 rushing yards and two touchdowns, as well as 14 catches for 119 receiving yards and one touchdown. He was released by the team on February 1, 2018 the day before the Roughriders were to pay LaFrance a $20,000 bonus as part of the final year of his contract; the original 2-year deal would have compensated LaFrance roughly $110,000 total per year.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers On February 13, 2018, it was announced that LaFrance had signed with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. It was a one-year contract for about $80,000. LaFrance saw limited usage on offense, but was a notable contributor on special teams by making 15 tackles. He also caught a pass from punter Jon Ryan on a fake punt, but the play was negated due to a coaching clerical error. LaFrance continued to mostly contribute on special teams during the 2021 season, and on December 22, 2021 was rewarded with a two-year contract extension. On June 4, 2023, LaFrance was released by the Roughriders.

BC Lions On June 5, 2023, one day after being released by the Riders, LaFrance signed with the BC Lions. On February 13, 2024, LaFrance became a free agent, as his contract with the Lions was not renewed.

Career statistics

Coaching career LaFrance joined the Manitoba Bisons in 2024 as the team's running backs coach.