Blue Bombers Forum

Im curious as to what everyone thinks our cdn draft needs are and in what order of priority
My thoughts;
1 oline Neufeld is aging, Wallace will be a free agent
2. Defensive back - currently  We have Kelly, Ball abd Hallet whose 32
(Kelly has been inconsistent)
3  Defensive line Smeckle is really our only potential dt backup
4 WR - if Demski or Nield goes down, can Corcoran or Cobb step up?
After the first round its easy to say pick the best player, but given a choice what do we need
 

I'd go OL 1st priority, DL 2nd.  Of course, OL is always easier when it comes to drafting.  DL has the benefit of being able to use either DT or DE, it doesn't really matter.

OL we must focus at C and G, unless we're absolutely certain we've already solved C.  Even if we draft a great C, it may be hard to expect them to start week 1.

I don't care about any other position.  Is it ever possible to get a BPA solely as trade bait for later in the season or next FA?

When is draft day?  I like to PVR the show.  Will give me a chance to boo Johnston in the comfort of my own home.

Draft day is April 28th.

Yes we need to improve our depth on OL and DL. Others may have a better idea of how good a group this will be this year. The current top 20 has about half as OL or DL candidates. How many will draw NFL interest is something to find out about.

I've mentioned that last year we added 6 to our AR. That's going to be a harder task this year IMO. So the idea of using a BPA for a future or even current trading asset is an interesting question.

A good trade is never out of the question which could include a current AR player instead of a new draft choice.

We can't control who other teams draft. That means having alternate plans as each choice comes up.

It won't be a dull day.

EDIT: There is an early mock draft out with the Bombers taking Elad ( a DB ) as our 1st pick. It's not so much that I dispute the pick aside from he may be gone before we pick. Those above him in the early ranking appear to be NFL draft or UDFA players. Elad might be the best available very early.

Very hard to get a DB up to speed in 1st year in our crazy complex system.  Even Ty Ford didn't play much in year 1.

I guess it depends on how much we value "win now" vs investment for the future.  Me, I'm into "win now", and a 1RDP OL/DL can often start 1st year.

Quote from: Tecno on March 14, 2026, 04:46:00 PMVery hard to get a DB up to speed in 1st year in our crazy complex system.  Even Ty Ford didn't play much in year 1.

I guess it depends on how much we value "win now" vs investment for the future.  Me, I'm into "win now", and a 1RDP OL/DL can often start 1st year.

If that DB is going to be a CB or DHB then yes. OTOH, at safety not as difficult. I don't know where Elad would be looked at to play but I would be surprised if we picked any DB with our 1st pick.  Based on his college career he might be a SAM in the CFL.

Most probably think we go OL 1st and DL 2nd, then see who are BPA maybe with our 3rd pick.

Reports suggest this is a strong draft class. Whether an OL could start in year 1 I'm not convinced. Add to that what seems like a path to 3 import OL, then we're looking at Wallace as a 6th OL. Where does that leave ELI in the current mix and what happens with a 1st round draft pick?

OL please and heavy

Best. Player. Available.

Yes, OL pipe needs filling.

But we have depth just about everywhere else.

So we go after the guy that will make the most difference in camp.

After round 3, flyers... scoop up anyone with NFL aspirations.

Quote from: theaardvark on March 15, 2026, 03:02:08 PMBest. Player. Available.

Yes, OL pipe needs filling.

But we have depth just about everywhere else.

So we go after the guy that will make the most difference in camp.

After round 3, flyers... scoop up anyone with NFL aspirations.

I think that's should be part of the plan for round 3. We can't add 6 new draft choices to the AR this year. If there is a player that is returning to college for another season, then maybe we draft that type of player.

However I'm all for a flyer to be take in round 3.

3 Down, has the Bombers taking (DB) Jett ELad 6'0"202 with our 1st pick. (TE) Ruban Jones 6'3" 242 with our 2nd. pick, and (WR) Nate Demontagnac 6'3" 195 with 3rd pick. Can't see it. I think we need to go OL/DL first. 

Quote from: Blue In BC on March 15, 2026, 03:49:10 PMI think that's should be part of the plan for round 3. We can't add 6 new draft choices to the AR this year. If there is a player that is returning to college for another season, then maybe we draft that type of player.

However I'm all for a flyer to be take in round 3.

Didn't they change the rules for players returning to college last year? I know the Bombers sent a few players down that path and they never returned.

Quote from: Pigskin on March 15, 2026, 05:48:19 PM3 Down, has the Bombers taking (DB) Jett ELad 6'0"202 with our 1st pick. (TE) Ruban Jones 6'3" 242 with our 2nd. pick, and (WR) Nate Demontagnac 6'3" 195 with 3rd pick. Can't see it. I think we need to go OL/DL first. 

3 down's mock drafts might as well be picking guys out of a hat. But like others have said, I hope we don't lock onto any position and draft people who can get onto the field in year 1.

Quote from: theaardvark on March 15, 2026, 03:02:08 PMBest. Player. Available.

Yes, OL pipe needs filling.

But we have depth just about everywhere else.

So we go after the guy that will make the most difference in camp.

After round 3, flyers... scoop up anyone with NFL aspirations.

but if the best player available in the first two rounds is a linebacker. do we really need to add when we just drafted Smith and Shay ly?
to me the first two picks have to be where we have a need. If Elad doesn't look like he'll be in the nfl then its a good pick. Having a cdn at safety or corner means we aren't locked into another position such as with Kramdl or Lawton.
We really need to extend Wallace or we could be desperate for cdn oline next year and would have to use our first pick there.

I think OL needs to be the top priority, followed by DL. Neufeld is on his final legs, Eli hasn't been able to cleanly win the job in what, 6 years being here? Wallace is fine but he plays small for his size, Vibert who knows.

While making the GC would've been best, picking at #4 is nice as well.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on March 15, 2026, 06:04:58 PMDidn't they change the rules for players returning to college last year? I know the Bombers sent a few players down that path and they never returned.

Before they returned as non counters on the roster. Now they are counters if they return this year.

Quote from: Pete on March 15, 2026, 08:15:41 PMbut if the best player available in the first two rounds is a linebacker. do we really need to add when we just drafted Smith and Shay ly?
to me the first two picks have to be where we have a need. If Elad doesn't look like he'll be in the nfl then its a good pick. Having a cdn at safety or corner means we aren't locked into another position such as with Kramdl or Lawton.
We really need to extend Wallace or we could be desperate for cdn oline next year and would have to use our first pick there.

There obviously isn't ever a "best player". Teams place guys in tiers. This group of players have first round talent. Some years there are 10 guys in that list, sometimes there's 4.

Within that group of 1st round talent, you can separate them into 1A, 1B, or 1C.

When it comes to our pick. If there's a LB, a OL, and a WR in the 1B or 1C tier, you can prioritize whichever position you feel fits your team and it's still BPA.

Now if there is only a LB in the 1B tier, you have to consider how far down you are willing to go. If there's a OL in the 1C tier, it's an easy choice. If you only have prospects who graded out in the 2nd round grouping, then you may have to make a choice like we did last year. Where the available LB was so far beyond the other tiers (by the WBB rankings), that you had to double down on the position.

Quote from: Jesse on March 16, 2026, 01:11:53 PMThere obviously isn't ever a "best player". Teams place guys in tiers. This group of players have first round talent. Some years there are 10 guys in that list, sometimes there's 4.

Within that group of 1st round talent, you can separate them into 1A, 1B, or 1C.

When it comes to our pick. If there's a LB, a OL, and a WR in the 1B or 1C tier, you can prioritize whichever position you feel fits your team and it's still BPA.

Now if there is only a LB in the 1B tier, you have to consider how far down you are willing to go. If there's a OL in the 1C tier, it's an easy choice. If you only have prospects who graded out in the 2nd round grouping, then you may have to make a choice like we did last year. Where the available LB was so far beyond the other tiers (by the WBB rankings), that you had to double down on the position.

Doesn't matter who they draft I don't forsee them playing this year, unless they quickly show themselves to be superior to an existing Natl, maybe Eli and Clercius could be upgraded but even that is a long-shot in the dark.  With the improvements made this off-season there are not many opportunities for new draft picks, specific focus should be directed to getting last years draft picks onto the field.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on March 16, 2026, 04:17:47 PMDoesn't matter who they draft I don't forsee them playing this year, unless they quickly show themselves to be superior to an existing Natl, maybe Eli and Clercius could be upgraded but even that is a long-shot in the dark.  With the improvements made this off-season there are not many opportunities for new draft picks, specific focus should be directed to getting last years draft picks onto the field.

That is most likely. However, they may not start but be ST or injury depth players that get some reps. As mentioned players like Clercius, Ball, Kelly or Schmekel don't exactly have locks on their positions.

The OL might see Wallace bumped to the 6 OL if we start 3 import OL. Eli might be the starting center. So the OL is in flux somewhat.

If we start 3 Canadian OL then the 6th OL is open IMO. Haven't seen enough of Vibert to know whether he keeps a spot or potentially loses out.

My expectation is that our 1st 2 picks make the AR as an improvement to depth. Who they replace is not known.

Quote from: Blue In BC on March 16, 2026, 04:29:36 PMThat is most likely. However, they may not start but be ST or injury depth players that get some reps. As mentioned players like Clercius, Ball, Kelly or Schmekel don't exactly have locks on their positions.

The OL might see Wallace bumped to the 6 OL if we start 3 import OL. Eli might be the starting center. So the OL is in flux somewhat.

If we start 3 Canadian OL then the 6th OL is open IMO. Haven't seen enough of Vibert to know whether he keeps a spot or potentially loses out.

My expectation is that our 1st 2 picks make the AR as an improvement to depth. Who they replace is not known.

Wasn't really referring to ST's which is the best place for rookies to get their toe wet, if Ball, Novak or Jake Kelly are replaced by a rookie I won't even blink, if Schmeck, Smith or Shay are replaced I might drop my sandwich.

I don't think Jake Kelly makes the AR this year if the Bombers draft a player like Jett and he shows up to TC this season.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on March 16, 2026, 05:24:31 PMWasn't really referring to ST's which is the best place for rookies to get their toe wet, if Ball, Novak or Jake Kelly are replaced by a rookie I won't even blink, if Schmeck, Smith or Shay are replaced I might drop my sandwich.

I don't think Shay or Smith are at risk. Novak and Schmekel are IMO. While our rookie draft choices didn't see reps aside from ST's, I don't know that is sustainable. I think the high picks from last year and this year, need to see some reps.

We have some older Canadians ( and some imports ) that may need to be replaced in 2027. Bringing newbies along slowly is not a bad plan but at some point, they must play. There are always points in games where it's garbage time ( winning or losing ) that creates openings.

Anyway we'll see who we draft. We don't need another starting Canadian per se, but an example might be Elad replacing Allen at safety. Nothing against Allen and I don't know much about Elad. I don't think he'll be available when we have our 1st pick, but if he's capable of starting, we should consider it.

I think you guys go Vaccaro if he falls to you.  He can play centre or guard.  Round 2 maybe a DE, not much in terms of DT depth in this draft.

Quote from: CrazyCanuck89 on March 16, 2026, 07:12:12 PMI think you guys go Vaccaro if he falls to you.  He can play centre or guard.  Round 2 maybe a DE, not much in terms of DT depth in this draft.

Us guys, would love to get Vaccaro, who was a Bison for three years. But, it sounds like he could spend a little time in the NFL. It also sounds like Ottawa would love to have him.

Other than Oline top tier talent in this draft looks thin. At wide receiver Cenacle is the lone standout, at lb its Dejambe and dline Gatkuoth A team like Ottawa might decide to use their pick   other than oline thinking at 10th they may still be able to get that position covered.

Quote from: Pete on March 17, 2026, 12:18:19 AMOther than Oline top tier talent in this draft looks thin. At wide receiver Cenacle is the lone standout, at lb its Dejambe and dline Gatkuoth A team like Ottawa might decide to use their pick   other than oline thinking at 10th they may still be able to get that position covered.

At WR Quayson and Houde are both very good receivers.

Quote from: Pigskin on March 16, 2026, 10:16:38 PMUs guys, would love to get Vaccaro, who was a Bison for three years. But, it sounds like he could spend a little time in the NFL. It also sounds like Ottawa would love to have him.

I don't know if he will.  He didn't start much at Purdue.  His size is ok, but not great.  He's only 6'2 so that plays against him.

Quote from: CrazyCanuck89 on March 17, 2026, 01:11:51 PMI don't know if he will.  He didn't start much at Purdue.  His size is ok, but not great.  He's only 6'2 so that plays against him.

Last year the"experts" has Shay bring the 1st pick, he dropped to 6th. Its really not a given

Quote from: Pete on March 17, 2026, 02:29:05 PMLast year the"experts" has Shay bring the 1st pick, he dropped to 6th. Its really not a given

I never saw Shay get higher then 4th overall last year.

Hazime seems to be a guy that could draw some attention. About the same size as Varraco, and score very well at the first combine.

3 down and cfl. Ca both had Shay in top two in all their mock drafts. Earlier rankings didnt include Shay as he was added to cdn eligibility later.

Last year we heard whether any team exceeded SMS cap on March 28. I'm not expecting anyone to exceed if this time around or to lose any draft picks as a result. That late increase to the SMS cap for 2025 should have made that less probable. Not impossible but less probable IMO.

OTOH, we also don't know how much teams spent on the new contact bonus's during December to close any gap.

So we should hear the results by the end of the month.

NFL draft is April 23-25 and ours is April 28. That will guide the risk analysis on Canadian players drafted or signed as UDFA just before our draft. Could see another 12 or so get some sort of NFL look and a few will be serious in nature.

Quote from: Pigskin on March 15, 2026, 05:48:19 PM3 Down, has the Bombers taking (DB) Jett ELad 6'0"202 with our 1st pick. (TE) Ruban Jones 6'3" 242 with our 2nd. pick, and (WR) Nate Demontagnac 6'3" 195 with 3rd pick. Can't see it. I think we need to go OL/DL first.

No way we should take a TE with our 2nd.  Maybe our "freebie" 2.5nd pick.  I agree 3down appears to just be throwing darts.

CFL has tight end skillsets they just don't call them that.

Ajou Ajou is kind of that body/player type in Saskatchewan.

We often bring our 5th receiver into the formation (Clercius) and when we do so you could call him a tight end for all intents and purposes.

The difference between the CFL and the American game is we also tend to scheme those players to the field also because we have more spread looks.

But the body type and skillset is required even if our "tight ends" tend to be a little lighter and a little more hybrid because we require them to be more versatile.

Don't think of him like drafting a tight end, think of him as an option to upgrade Clercius because that's what it would be in reality 

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on March 24, 2026, 12:19:36 AMDon't think of him like drafting a tight end, think of him as an option to upgrade Clercius because that's what it would be in reality

I'm not sold.  Ajou is touted as a REC.  If he does TE stuff, great.  He's still a REC.  He's not a Mike Miller or Chris-Ike who is 99.9% blocking and 0.1% catching.  (Ike had his first and only pass attempt this last season.)

And we have Ike right now, why do we need to waste a high DP on the next guy??  Heck, just look at what round we got Ike in.  Bet it wasn't 1-2 ("fake/extra" round 2 doesn't count).  And Ajou... what round was he?  Not 1-2.  There's your answer.

I don't mind wasting a 4thRDP on a TE (or next Ajou... whatever) to see if we can upgrade Ike (blocking wasn't great in '25...).  But 2nd?  Crazy talk.

Shrug. If Ruban Jones makes a CFL roster he'll be listed a receiver also because that's what he translate to in the Canadian game.

He'd be brought in closer to the box to run block and he'd be flexed out to the field in spread looks.

You can call that role whatever you want. It simply is what it is. I have no idea where he'd be picked in the draft and neither do you. The CFL draft has never been predictable by anyone really.

Quote from: Tecno on March 23, 2026, 11:45:20 PMNo way we should take a TE with our 2nd.  Maybe our "freebie" 2.5nd pick.  I agree 3down appears to just be throwing darts.

TE is just a title. I don't know which team will draft him or when. He might become more of a FB type that sees a few passes thrown his way.

He doesn't sound like a player that would be a very high pick in the draft.

BTW. I don't agree our 2nd round bonus pick is a " freebie " that can not be used wisely.  Pick the best player available. If that turns out to be Jones, then so be it.

Quote from: Blue In BC on March 24, 2026, 02:24:53 PMTE is just a title. I don't know which team will draft him or when. He might become more of a FB type that sees a few passes thrown his way.

He doesn't sound like a player that would be a very high pick in the draft.

BTW. I don't agree our 2nd round bonus pick is a " freebie " that can not be used wisely.  Pick the best player available. If that turns out to be Jones, then so be it.

Closest thing the CFL had to a TE in recent decades was Nik Lewis and he retired in 2017. CFL stats page shows only his last 2 seasons with the Als, no indication he ever played for the Stamps.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on March 24, 2026, 04:00:14 PMClosest thing the CFL had to a TE in recent decades was Nik Lewis and he retired in 2017. CFL stats page shows only his last 2 seasons with the Als, no indication he ever played for the Stamps.

Lewis was a top receiver but he could block extremely well as a SB. I have no idea what Jones's skill set might be but that is the type of role he'd have to fill. At 242 lbs he's not going to be a speed demon. He'd have to be a physical monster against small DB's etc.

Quote from: Blue In BC on March 24, 2026, 04:44:02 PMLewis was a top receiver but he could block extremely well as a SB. I have no idea what Jones's skill set might be but that is the type of role he'd have to fill. At 242 lbs he's not going to be a speed demon. He'd have to be a physical monster against small DB's etc.

Jones: 4.72/40, and 25 reps on the bench press. If he can pickup the blocking quickly he be a weapon.

 

Quote from: Pigskin on March 24, 2026, 09:38:56 PMJones: 4.72/40, and 25 reps on the bench press. If he can pickup the blocking quickly he be a weapon.

 

Either way I'm not sure he'll be a high draft pick by any team. He probably gets drafted but maybe 4th or 5th round if he draws interest?

Redblacks are willing to trade the # 1 pick in the draft. It would be nice to have but I can't imagine what we'd have to give up to make it a good idea.

That said, I would at least like to have that discussion with them. Trading up from # 4 to # 1 could be part of some sort of package. Might even add in the bonus pick in the 2nd round for example, neg list or a back up player.

I don't know whether we have a player we'd really want in order to get the # 1 pick. Drafting at # 4 is not a bad option either.

I'll be somewhat surprised if they pull off a trade but you never know.

As I've suggested earlier, we don't seem to have a bunch of Canadians we want to move off the team.  So roster spots for newbies are limited. I see a quality over volume in 2026 so trading draft choices after the 2nd round could be an advantage.

Example: If we start an import at LG then Wallace is bumped to 6 OL. Not the worst situation. However, depending on what they see as upside to Vibert, does that make Wallace available in trade.  So drafting an OL with the 1st pick, that is younger, less expensive and has " more upside " in the future, might make sense. In return Ottawa gets an OL that could start today.

I'm not sure about the current projected starting OL in Ottawa. Are they able to draft an OL at # 1 that can start immediately or nearly immediately? IDK.

Note: I'm not proposing we make this trade per se, just speculating on both starting rosters and quality of the top draft choices.  One possible benefit of trading a veteran ( like Wallace ) is an SMS advantage.

Quote from: Blue In BC on March 25, 2026, 03:15:29 PMRedblacks are willing to trade the # 1 pick in the draft. It would be nice to have but I can't imagine what we'd have to give up to make it a good idea.

That said, I would at least like to have that discussion with them. Trading up from # 4 to # 1 could be part of some sort of package. Might even add in the bonus pick in the 2nd round for example, neg list or a back up player.

I don't know whether we have a player we'd really want in order to get the # 1 pick. Drafting at # 4 is not a bad option either.

I'll be somewhat surprised if they pull off a trade but you never know.

As I've suggested earlier, we don't seem to have a bunch of Canadians we want to move off the team.  So roster spots for newbies are limited. I see a quality over volume in 2026 so trading draft choices after the 2nd round could be an advantage.

Example: If we start an import at LG then Wallace is bumped to 6 OL. Not the worst situation. However, depending on what they see as upside to Vibert, does that make Wallace available in trade.  So drafting an OL with the 1st pick, that is younger, less expensive and has " more upside " in the future, might make sense. In return Ottawa gets an OL that could start today.

I'm not sure about the current projected starting OL in Ottawa. Are they able to draft an OL at # 1 that can start immediately or nearly immediately? IDK.

Note: I'm not proposing we make this trade per se, just speculating on both starting rosters and quality of the top draft choices.  One possible benefit of trading a veteran ( like Wallace ) is an SMS advantage.

moving up to 1 would be great, bring in Vaccaro or some other C/G prospect. But, I also would not sacrifice a 2nd for that. Right now our canadian depth is pretty light in the trenches and even arguably in the secondary. Gotta keep stockpiling assets there

Quote from: kkc60 on March 27, 2026, 12:06:00 PMmoving up to 1 would be great, bring in Vaccaro or some other C/G prospect. But, I also would not sacrifice a 2nd for that. Right now our canadian depth is pretty light in the trenches and even arguably in the secondary. Gotta keep stockpiling assets there

Vaccaro might be getting an NFL opportunity as well as a few other top ranked players. I didn't have anybody in mind.

It will always come with a price which could involve anything including a neg list, roster players and / or swapping multiple picks or some combination of things.

Essentially just saying it might be worth the combination and is a series of big if's ( Wallace in particular ) as I wondered about his status.

The combine gives Walters/Oshea the ability to gauge prospects NFL desires, and will temper their choices one way of the other.

These are young men, full of pride, confidence and motivation.  Whether they get drafted in the NFL draft, or get a UFA invite to a camp, you can bet the top 10-20 prospects on any chart are hoping for that opportunity.

Positionally, some will have a better chance as they fit the metrics of the NFL better than others.  Some may fall in the tweener spot that makes the CFL a much better fit.  I can see that, as well, making a difference in draft orde.

The draft is not a simple "pick from a pre-ordained chart" situation.  Each team will have its druthers, and positions they need NAT support in.  And others will have no interest in certain positions. 

Knowing who is ahead of you, and what they are shopping for can make a big difference as well.

We've fared well in the draft, and I see no reason to doubt we will do so again.  We may well get "our guy" at 4, so unless we know someone else is after "our guy" ahead of us, no reason to trade.

Was trying to figure out how to include cash in a trade, the only (and it is blatant) way I could see is that the team you want to funnel cash to releases a player, we sign them to the same deal with a big signing bonus, and then include them back in the trade (most of their salary having already been paid by us).

I can't see that being against any rules, but it sure is blatant...

Quote from: theaardvark on March 27, 2026, 02:55:52 PMThe combine gives Walters/Oshea the ability to gauge prospects NFL desires, and will temper their choices one way of the other.

These are young men, full of pride, confidence and motivation.  Whether they get drafted in the NFL draft, or get a UFA invite to a camp, you can bet the top 10-20 prospects on any chart are hoping for that opportunity.

Positionally, some will have a better chance as they fit the metrics of the NFL better than others.  Some may fall in the tweener spot that makes the CFL a much better fit.  I can see that, as well, making a difference in draft orde.

The draft is not a simple "pick from a pre-ordained chart" situation.  Each team will have its druthers, and positions they need NAT support in.  And others will have no interest in certain positions. 

Knowing who is ahead of you, and what they are shopping for can make a big difference as well.

We've fared well in the draft, and I see no reason to doubt we will do so again.  We may well get "our guy" at 4, so unless we know someone else is after "our guy" ahead of us, no reason to trade.

Was trying to figure out how to include cash in a trade, the only (and it is blatant) way I could see is that the team you want to funnel cash to releases a player, we sign them to the same deal with a big signing bonus, and then include them back in the trade (most of their salary having already been paid by us).

I can't see that being against any rules, but it sure is blatant...

I was just saying I wouldn't mind having both the # 1 and # 4 pick. In theory those players would be higher up our list than those in the 2nd round. Yes, our guy might still be available in the 2nd round.

It's just a risk analysis about what the cost is to get the # 1 pick against the probability he's chosen before we pick.

As far as the question about cash: I conditional trade where the player traded agrees to a new contract, usually for an extension. However in some cases that player has already received early money in the form of a bonus. So both sides will look for a win win as a result. Player going in both directions may have had similar early money. It all comes down to details.

I used Wallace as my example. The team may have already decide that an import is planned for LG. Wallace as a 3rd OL is not bad plan but he's not on an ELC. In that sense he becomes a possible trade bait consideration. What is the fate of Vibert and the OL drafted in 2025 with the long name?

Do we trade a possible very good back up not on an ELC for a potential starter at the # 1 pick? I don't know that Elad is that guy but let's just say he is for the sake of argument and we think he's chosen before we pick?

Lots of moving parts including NFL aspirations for the current top 10. lol

with Wallace, I sure hope if he is on our plans going forward that we sign him to an extension prior to the draft. If we don't we then risk losing him next year This really increases the pressure to use our first pick as an Oline men even if we really like a player like Elad.
  A huge factor has been the increase of the practice roster size in the nfl. Marginal players that would have been of interest to cfl teams are retained.
 It seems a rule of thumb is: if the player hasn't been offered a significant signing bonus then cfl teams are more likely to draft him higher.
  in terms of getting the number 1 pick, the only way I see that happening is if we trade the number 4 pick plus one of our second round picks. I don't see any scenario where we retain our pick and also get Ottawas.
Btw i think every team that has had a number one pick says they are open to offers. Whether they are or not is a matter for debate as often the price is way beyond what anyone will offer.

I can't see the Bombers trading Wallace. I also can't us trying to move up 3 spots to get the first overall pick. We are sitting pretty good with picks 4/13/20/24/33 with our first 5 picks.

Quote from: Pete on March 27, 2026, 05:27:14 PMwith Wallace, I sure hope if he is on our plans going forward that we sign him to an extension prior to the draft. If we don't we then risk losing him next year This really increases the pressure to use our first pick as an Oline men even if we really like a player like Elad.
  A huge factor has been the increase of the practice roster size in the nfl. Marginal players that would have been of interest to cfl teams are retained.
 It seems a rule of thumb is: if the player hasn't been offered a significant signing bonus then cfl teams are more likely to draft him higher.
  in terms of getting the number 1 pick, the only way I see that happening is if we trade the number 4 pick plus one of our second round picks. I don't see any scenario where we retain our pick and also get Ottawas.
Btw i think every team that has had a number one pick says they are open to offers. Whether they are or not is a matter for debate as often the price is way beyond what anyone will offer.

It's an interesting conversation. I'd prefer to find out that Wallace is a better player than any import competing to start at LG. The other 2 Canadian backups are unknowns ( experience wise ) but may have good upside.

Perhaps the team is considering an import at center? It still presents the question about who is in the plans to start, back up or be possible trade commodities.

We've had lots of opinions that we look to be headed towards 3 starting Canadian receivers and 3 import OL. That be ruled out or in at the moment. TC throws lots of curves at roster decisions.

I jokingly asked what do we do if we find the next Lawler in TC and can't keep him off the field?

Obviously all of this was only a series of questions about whether Wallace is bumped to back up and is thereby a trade commodity.

I can't think of any other Canadian that might have a significant value that we might consider trading in a bid to get the # 1 pick. 

Realistically I doubt we make a trade for the 1st pick but it's fun to come up with some alternative scenarios.

Beyond asking the Redblacks what they want in trade is about all I can suggest at the moment. It may be a very short call done on draft day that goes no where.

You made a fair point that we might have to give up a 2nd round as well as our 1st round to move up . I mostly agree but I wouldn't rule our the bonus 2nd round pick used to move up with our 1st round pick.

Some have suggested using the bonus pick on a " flyer " as we did last year drafting Elgersma. OTOH, we may keep it and pick a player that will make the roster in 2026. 

Teams will make trades on draft day as players are picked and teams will go off the board and not pick as expected.

We can only speak in generics until teams start making picks. The brain trust has lists at each position that they might consider.

Has anyone seen a list of the ranked global players? With only 2 rounds only 18 players get drafted. History has shown about half are punters or kickers. We draft 4th and 13th.

I won't be surprised if one of our choices is some sort of kicker but no idea whether that's our 1st or 2nd pick. Chances are we add another DL or DB since those are ratio friendly to how we put together our roster.

We only have 2 on our current roster so 2 new faces probably headed for the PR to start the season.

Walter's selected a bunch of free agents that seemed to address positions we needed help with. Last year we picked a bunch of not so good players. As usual, We seem to need some Canadians on the O line.

Receivers, nah... translation punt cover guys.
Safety- we don't appear to like anyone back there on the current roster.this. Is a weak link at this time.
D- line? We seemEd to pick up one guy, and the young guys that played sparingly did ok.  No need this year but if someone they like is available......That would be good.

Quote from: DM83 on April 06, 2026, 02:07:17 AMWalter's selected a bunch of free agents that seemed to address positions we needed help with. Last year we picked a bunch of not so good players. As usual, We seem to need some Canadians on the O line.

Receivers, nah... translation punt cover guys.
Safety- we don't appear to like anyone back there on the current roster.this. Is a weak link at this time.
D- line? We seemEd to pick up one guy, and the young guys that played sparingly did ok.  No need this year but if someone they like is available......That would be good.

Because we appear to be going with 3 Canadian receivers starting, we MIGHT need to reconsider drafting one. A couple of the ranked receivers are getting good reviews. So I can see us taking one in our 1st 3 picks. Generally you're right that we don't need more punt cover guys. Those picks need to have a future beyond that.

Obviously an OL is at the top of everyone's list. Which one is available becomes a BPA choice but I think that is a choice of OL and not BPA overall. At least for our 1st 2 picks.

Our # 20 is where I think we could draft a DB or receiver. This then falls into BPA overall. It seems that there are some good players but it's unclear who gets NFL chances as UDFA etc. That becomes a risk analysis at that time.

OL choices are tough. 

The best ones may never come to the CFL, OL are the most likely to get NFL deals.

So, do you take a lesser player counting on them not getting an NFL look, a better player that will get a look but may end up here in a couple years, or the best player that may never come north?

You might get lucky and find a guy that is very good but knows he's the wrong measureables for a legit NFL look, and WANTS to play and be a part of a team long term.

Walters has been pretty good at identifying guys that will stick with us.  We did lose a few that "went home", but they also got ridiculous money to do so.

Quote from: theaardvark on April 06, 2026, 06:38:14 PMOL choices are tough. 

The best ones may never come to the CFL, OL are the most likely to get NFL deals.

So, do you take a lesser player counting on them not getting an NFL look, a better player that will get a look but may end up here in a couple years, or the best player that may never come north?

You might get lucky and find a guy that is very good but knows he's the wrong measureables for a legit NFL look, and WANTS to play and be a part of a team long term.

Walters has been pretty good at identifying guys that will stick with us.  We did lose a few that "went home", but they also got ridiculous money to do so.

The NFL draft happens before us and players are also added as UDFA's. So we should have a pretty good idea which are going to stay in the CFL. Teams will also have talks with players which is useful as well.

I don't think teams draft many players in the 1st couple of rounds that they don't expect to see immediately.

The " flyers " are taken in the following rounds where those get NFL chances.

I think have the luxury with current Canadian depth to take a chance on someone. OTOH, I expect to see a couple of 2026 draft choices return to school.

We can't add everybody to this year's AR. Last year we added 6. This year I only expect 2 or 3 to be immediate. Maybe a couple see time on PR.

Quote from: theaardvark on April 06, 2026, 06:38:14 PMOL choices are tough. 

The best ones may never come to the CFL, OL are the most likely to get NFL deals.

So, do you take a lesser player counting on them not getting an NFL look, a better player that will get a look but may end up here in a couple years, or the best player that may never come north?

You might get lucky and find a guy that is very good but knows he's the wrong measureables for a legit NFL look, and WANTS to play and be a part of a team long term.

Walters has been pretty good at identifying guys that will stick with us.  We did lose a few that "went home", but they also got ridiculous money to do so.

That's why they hold onto Wallace and make sure he re-signs for another 3 years, he's a proven commodity with great physical assets, every unproven draft pick is a gamble.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 06, 2026, 11:01:08 PMThat's why they hold onto Wallace and make sure he re-signs for another 3 years, he's a proven commodity with great physical assets, every unproven draft pick is a gamble.

In theory all of that is true. OTOH we may see the LG bumped to an import starting with Wallace bumped to 6th OL. How is that going to encourage him to sign an extension? Even a good back up is going to earn less than a starting Canadian.

It's somewhat ironic that a starting import OL might be working on an ELC deal. Wallace might already be earning more than ELC playing to earn that big bump as a starter.

We've got the option to move to an import LG but that isn't happening automatically. One of the bigger questions we'll see resolved during TC.

Obvious preference is to see a Canadian starting so there needs to be a distinct advantage to switch to an import.

EDIT: I float the idea we should consider trading Elgersma if he's showing no signs of reporting to TC this year. He might be more willing if his destination was Hamilton or Toronto but either way his trade value is low.

Clock is ticking on his future in football in any league.

If his trade value

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 07, 2026, 04:18:50 PMIn theory all of that is true. OTOH we may see the LG bumped to an import starting with Wallace bumped to 6th OL. How is that going to encourage him to sign an extension? Even a good back up is going to earn less than a starting Canadian.

It's somewhat ironic that a starting import OL might be working on an ELC deal. Wallace might already be earning more than ELC playing to earn that big bump as a starter.

We've got the option to move to an import LG but that isn't happening automatically. One of the bigger questions we'll see resolved during TC.

Obvious preference is to see a Canadian starting so there needs to be a distinct advantage to switch to an import.

EDIT: I float the idea we should consider trading Elgersma if he's showing no signs of reporting to TC this year. He might be more willing if his destination was Hamilton or Toronto but either way his trade value is low.

Clock is ticking on his future in football in any league.

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 07, 2026, 04:18:50 PMIn theory all of that is true. OTOH we may see the LG bumped to an import starting with Wallace bumped to 6th OL. How is that going to encourage him to sign an extension? Even a good back up is going to earn less than a starting Canadian.

It's somewhat ironic that a starting import OL might be working on an ELC deal. Wallace might already be earning more than ELC playing to earn that big bump as a starter.

We've got the option to move to an import LG but that isn't happening automatically. One of the bigger questions we'll see resolved during TC.

Obvious preference is to see a Canadian starting so there needs to be a distinct advantage to switch to an import.

EDIT: I float the idea we should consider trading Elgersma if he's showing no signs of reporting to TC this year. He might be more willing if his destination was Hamilton or Toronto but either way his trade value is low.

Clock is ticking on his future in football in any league.

If his trade value is low??? I would just hold on to him. Let him figure it out. Sooner or later he will be playing in the CFL.

Quote from: Pigskin on April 07, 2026, 08:44:15 PMIf his trade value is low??? I would just hold on to him. Let him figure it out. Sooner or later he will be playing in the CFL.

Every trade requires two teams willing to make a specific trade. What either want or are willing to take in return is always the question.

I have no idea of whether an eastern team is of interest although he might prefer an eastern team to the Bombers.

It's all guesswork but he isn't jumping towards the Bombers at the moment, so it's just a random thought. He isn't going to automatically become a starter or even the # 2 anywhere at the moment. Does he have a better chance elsewhere in his mind?

In that sense I wouldn't be upset if the Bombers looked into a possible trade. OTOH I wouldn't be upset if we signed him tomorrow. Keeping in mind I'm not sure his UFL contract is actually valid ( no pay / no consideration ).

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 07, 2026, 10:10:43 PMEvery trade requires two teams willing to make a specific trade. What either want or are willing to take in return is always the question.

I have no idea of whether an eastern team is of interest although he might prefer an eastern team to the Bombers.

It's all guesswork but he isn't jumping towards the Bombers at the moment, so it's just a random thought. He isn't going to automatically become a starter or even the # 2 anywhere at the moment. Does he have a better chance elsewhere in his mind?

In that sense I wouldn't be upset if the Bombers looked into a possible trade. OTOH I wouldn't be upset if we signed him tomorrow. Keeping in mind I'm not sure his UFL contract is actually valid ( no pay / no consideration ).

It depends what you mean by valid. It has not been registered by the league, so technically there is no contract.

Trade value is low?? How about non existent!! This is the guy who's bummed around for 2 years now, going from training camp to training camp, not getting a sniff anywhere, and now has paperwork issues in the USFL?? He's a joke, how can you take him seriously??

Quote from: Jesse on April 07, 2026, 11:09:26 PMIt depends what you mean by valid. It has not been registered by the league, so technically there is no contract.

Contract requires: Intent, offer, acceptance, consideration and legal capacity.

What you pointed out is also a possible valid reason. However that's an internal issue to the UFL and not necessarily a legal aspect in the courts.

If he paid been paid a small signing bonus ( consideration ) then it could be argued the contract is legal. The work visa may not be part of the legal aspect of the contract, regardless of the delay which is a court issue rather than a contract issue per se.

I don't know he was paid anything to sign a contract but all the other aspects are correct.

Quote from: dd on April 07, 2026, 11:25:08 PMTrade value is low?? How about non existent!! This is the guy who's bummed around for 2 years now, going from training camp to training camp, not getting a sniff anywhere, and now has paperwork issues in the USFL?? He's a joke, how can you take him seriously??

LOL. Fair enough, it may be zero. Sometimes a trade is subject to being able to speak with a player before a trade is made. Trades are made for players that were about to become potential free agents.

He's from back east, so maybe he'd be more interested in a 3 year ELC where he'd rather play than in Winnipeg. Maybe an eastern team might have interest. Keep in mind he was drafted in the 2nd round, so there was interest.

None of this is fact just idle contemplation. I think we're all fed up with him not reporting to Winnipeg. Perhaps the team has spoken to him and has a clearer picture of what his plans will be.

I felt it was a wasted pick when we drafted him. At this point if there was some interest in a trade, maybe we get a 3rd round pick? Who knows. Hamilton are you listening?

I don't get the grousing about Elgersma. He was just drafted last year, why give up? Sometimes guys take years to come back. Tyrell Ford was gone a year, Dakoda Shepley was gone 5 years just for examples. He's a 24 year old QB who will be here eventually and everyone will be happy.

My bet is he'll get here eventually... and he'll be a bust, like over 90% of the QBs that come into the CFL.

Quote from: bunker on April 08, 2026, 12:38:36 AMMy bet is he'll get here eventually... and he'll be a bust, like over 90% of the QBs that come into the CFL.

totally agree that this is the likely outcome. People gushing about him and saying he'd replace Collaros is just plain crazy talk

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 08, 2026, 12:11:24 AMContract requires: Intent, offer, acceptance, consideration and legal capacity.

What you pointed out is also a possible valid reason. However that's an internal issue to the UFL and not necessarily a legal aspect in the courts.

If he paid been paid a small signing bonus ( consideration ) then it could be argued the contract is legal. The work visa may not be part of the legal aspect of the contract, regardless of the delay which is a court issue rather than a contract issue per se.

I don't know he was paid anything to sign a contract but all the other aspects are correct.

Well, he's not legally eligible to work in the US. It's pretty cut and dry.

Quote from: Jesse on April 08, 2026, 06:27:47 PMWell, he's not legally eligible to work in the US. It's pretty cut and dry.

The fact he's listed as inactive again is pretty telling. And who knows how long it could take to get his visa situation sorted out.

Quote from: blue_gold_84 on April 08, 2026, 08:02:06 PMThe fact he's listed as inactive again is pretty telling. And who knows how long it could take to get his visa situation sorted out.

It could simply be denied as well. The UFL (or whatever league it is), needs to hit certain threshold's to employ foreign workers that it simply has not hit in the past. I was reminded that Liam Dobson tried to sign with the USFL at one point but couldn't get a visa.

Either way, it would be nice to see him in camp and see if conditioning and practicing for the three down game had messed up his 4 down mindset.

Quote from: theaardvark on April 09, 2026, 02:20:37 PMEither way, it would be nice to see him in camp and see if conditioning and practicing for the three down game had messed up his 4 down mindset.

Or maybe Vice Versa.  Practicing for the 4 down game has messed up his 3 down game.

Quote from: Jesse on April 09, 2026, 11:11:05 AMIt could simply be denied as well. The UFL (or whatever league it is), needs to hit certain threshold's to employ foreign workers that it simply has not hit in the past. I was reminded that Liam Dobson tried to sign with the USFL at one point but couldn't get a visa.

It could come down to the team being willing to take responsibility for him as his employer, they would have to accept liability for his time spent in the US and ensure he follows all rules and leaves when he's supposed to.  There may be more hoops to jump through with ICE now more involved. From an employer perspective that's taking on a lot of extra hassle which they may not be equipped to deal with.  Perhaps they also realize he intends to leave for the CFL within a few months and they won't realize any payback.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 09, 2026, 05:32:26 PMIt could come down to the team being willing to take responsibility for him as his employer, they would have to accept liability for his time spent in the US and ensure he follows all rules and leaves when he's supposed to.  There may be more hoops to jump through with ICE now more involved. From an employer perspective that's taking on a lot of extra hassle which they may not be equipped to deal with.  Perhaps they also realize he intends to leave for the CFL within a few months and they won't realize any payback.

All of that speculation above seems pretty incongruent with the fact that a UFL team not only drafted him just a few months ago, but then offered him a contract.

The visa issue appears to be biggest hurdle for him at this point.

Quote from: blue_gold_84 on April 09, 2026, 07:10:48 PMAll of that speculation above seems pretty incongruent with the fact that a UFL team not only drafted him just a few months ago, but then offered him a contract.

The visa issue appears to be biggest hurdle for him at this point.

Chicken and the egg, he probably can't get the working visa unless he has proof of employment and he can't get paid legally until he has a working visa.

Ol. Kevin Cline added to draft after qualifying as a Canadian. His father played for Ottawa Rough Riders long ago.

There seem to be some good OL that might still be available after the NFL draft.  We should be able to get a good one with our 1st pick.

Mock Draft - I always enjoy reading these and see where they actually get drafted.

https://3downnation.com/2026/04/15/john-hodges-2026-cfl-mock-draft-2-0/

There is another mock draft out today. Each one bears no resemblance to the previous one. lol

I have no idea who gets picked by the Bombers. Always enjoy watching the 1st couple of rounds to see how it works out.

The CFL draft is a total guess but this one feels more plausible than some of the others, at least to me.

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 15, 2026, 10:39:33 PMThe CFL draft is a total guess but this one feels more plausible than some of the others, at least to me.

Hard to say but is drafting a FB with our 2nd pick a good idea? He's essentially a role / ST player.  We may need some role players but those can be drafted in later rounds unless this one is something special.

I could see drafting him with our late 2nd round pick but we have greater needs with the 13th overall pick including db and wr assuming we take ol first

Quote from: Pete on April 16, 2026, 06:02:52 PMI could see drafting him with our late 2nd round pick but we have greater needs with the 13th overall pick including db and wr assuming we take ol first

I have the same thought as in 2025. The 2nd pick in the 2nd round ( our 3rd overall ) is not a throw away. My expectation would be a player to fight for a spot on the AR with potential to develop into a starter.

He might get some consideration in the 3rd or 4th round. But I'm against using a top 3 pick to get him. I know little about him and maybe he has more upside than I perceive. If he's going to be FB / ST guy I'm less interested.

Quote from: Waffler on April 08, 2026, 12:30:22 AMI don't get the grousing about Elgersma. He was just drafted last year, why give up? Sometimes guys take years to come back. Tyrell Ford was gone a year, Dakoda Shepley was gone 5 years just for examples. He's a 24 year old QB who will be here eventually and everyone will be happy.

Vindicated!

Quote from: markf on April 18, 2026, 08:10:02 PMVindicated!

About what? He was doing a Henoc Muamba tour of the NFL and then the CFL. Seemed totally disinterested in the CFL.

We'll see how he works out and I wish him success whether he was an import or a Canadian. Being a Canadian is a bonus in that sense. In theory the # 2 and # 3 QB's are open and he could end up with early success.

It's also possible he can't make the AR if Wilson wins one of those spots.

So he'll get very few game reps if at all and his practice reps will be very limited.

That's not the worst outcome, but will he accept a PR spot? If we have to 1 game IR him to retain him, that may be a wasted effort. It's not like we'd normally retain an import QB on the 1 game IR unless actually injured.

Like any rookie QB it's all TBD. He has an advantage of being familiar with the Canadian game and rules.

Is it enough early on?  It's great if he ends up as a good QB even if it's in 2027.

Part of the risk / analysis will it be worth having drafted in the 2nd round?

That's the ultimate question. Fingers are crossed with hit Bomber gold with our choice.

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 18, 2026, 10:44:09 PMAbout what? He was doing a Henoc Muamba tour of the NFL and then the CFL. Seemed totally disinterested in the CFL.

We'll see how he works out and I wish him success whether he was an import or a Canadian. Being a Canadian is a bonus in that sense. In theory the # 2 and # 3 QB's are open and he could end up with early success.

It's also possible he can't make the AR if Wilson wins one of those spots.

So he'll get very few game reps if at all and his practice reps will be very limited.

That's not the worst outcome, but will he accept a PR spot? If we have to 1 game IR him to retain him, that may be a wasted effort. It's not like we'd normally retain an import QB on the 1 game IR unless actually injured.

Like any rookie QB it's all TBD. He has an advantage of being familiar with the Canadian game and rules.

Is it enough early on?  It's great if he ends up as a good QB even if it's in 2027.

Part of the risk / analysis will it be worth having drafted in the 2nd round?

That's the ultimate question. Fingers are crossed with hit Bomber gold with our choice.

If he hits our PR, you can bet he will get a deal elsewhere.  Just like we need a NAT backup for Oliveira, BC could use one for Rourke, and if SSK or HAM end up with a NAT QB, there too.

On the other hand, if he can't make our AR, other teams might take a pass.

I still think that unless Wilson has a stellar camp, it is Collaros, Perkins, Elgersma.  With Thorne on the PR. 

Quote from: theaardvark on April 18, 2026, 11:43:24 PMIf he hits our PR, you can bet he will get a deal elsewhere.  Just like we need a NAT backup for Oliveira, BC could use one for Rourke, and if SSK or HAM end up with a NAT QB, there too.

On the other hand, if he can't make our AR, other teams might take a pass.

I still think that unless Wilson has a stellar camp, it is Collaros, Perkins, Elgersma.  With Thorne on the PR. 

Every team has a # 4 to consider  during TC and may or may not retain him anywhere on their roster. When an injury happens they'll have other QB's on their speed dial.

PR spots are limited which means making a spot for any QB a challenge. Keeping him on the 1 game IR is not the best way to spend SMS.

Suggesting that he might be scooped if we put him on the PR is a maybe at several levels. Moving from one team to another means they have to activate him to the AR doesn't it? To prevent it, means the Bombers would have to do that. It's not something you see often.

They you risk losing the player that gets bumped possibly. QB's get released after TC all the time. Not many get signed elsewhere.

The simple solution is for him to be better than 2 of our group and win a spot on the AR.

We're going to need reports from TC to determine what his chances might be.

I don't follow Usports, nor do I pay attention to other teams' #3's... if you do, tell me, does Elgersma look worse, the same, or better than Rourke at this point in his career?

I'm trying to project forward to gauge how valuable he'll be 2-4 years down the line.  I'd be fairly happy with Rourke-level, but I'd be happier with a bit better.  I don't think Rourke wins a cup unless he has a clearly elite team around him, but I still put him as a top-4 QB.

Quote from: Tecno on April 19, 2026, 02:30:48 AMI don't follow Usports, nor do I pay attention to other teams' #3's... if you do, tell me, does Elgersma look worse, the same, or better than Rourke at this point in his career?

I'm trying to project forward to gauge how valuable he'll be 2-4 years down the line.  I'd be fairly happy with Rourke-level, but I'd be happier with a bit better.  I don't think Rourke wins a cup unless he has a clearly elite team around him, but I still put him as a top-4 QB.

That's a big ask.lol

We all hope he turns out to be a top CFL QB. OTOH, we say that about every rookie QB.  Being a Canadian is just a bonus and might hold a certain ratio advantage in how the roster is built.

Odds are long but he has an opportunity against an unproven group of other candidates. Your could say he's starting the race even. Wilson has some experience but not that large an advantage.

9 days to the draft. We'll see which players get drafted or signed as UDFA by the NFL. That will change the rankings on our draft.

I suppose teams already have an idea of which players won't be available or for how long.

Each of the mock drafts has looked completely different.

I can still imagine 2-3 players making the 2026 AR and making a reasonable impact. Who they might replace is a wait and see.

Our Canadian depth is pretty good and we should see those drafted last year taking a step forward.

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 19, 2026, 02:20:56 AMEvery team has a # 4 to consider  during TC and may or may not retain him anywhere on their roster. When an injury happens they'll have other QB's on their speed dial.

PR spots are limited which means making a spot for any QB a challenge. Keeping him on the 1 game IR is not the best way to spend SMS.

Suggesting that he might be scooped if we put him on the PR is a maybe at several levels. Moving from one team to another means they have to activate him to the AR doesn't it? To prevent it, means the Bombers would have to do that. It's not something you see often.

They you risk losing the player that gets bumped possibly. QB's get released after TC all the time. Not many get signed elsewhere.

The simple solution is for him to be better than 2 of our group and win a spot on the AR.

We're going to need reports from TC to determine what his chances might be.

I think it would be pretty unusual for the Bombers to place a high draft pick on the PR, they want to give the player every advantage to succeed as they are critical to the future success of the CFL brand.  Plus they don't want to make their recruitment process look dumb by picking the wrong player, so ego plays into it.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 19, 2026, 04:15:20 PMI think it would be pretty unusual for the Bombers to ever place a high draft pick on the PR, they want to give the player every advantage to succeed as they are critical to the future success of the CFL brand.  Plus they don't want to make their recruitment process look dumb by picking the wrong player, so ego plays into it.

A high draft choice is not usually a QB and can play ST's or be emergency in game depth. A QB is a bit of an exception if he doesn't make the AR, what do you do with him?

Placing him on the 1 game IR comes at an SMS disadvantage. If he's the # 4 QB he's not going to get many reps in practice so that's another issue. Even in pre season how many reps is he going to get unless he's expected to make the AR?

I'm hoping he can be the SY QB at the very least. Keeping 4 QB's after TC is not the usual plan?

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 19, 2026, 04:22:19 PMA high draft choice is not usually a QB and can play ST's or be emergency in game depth. A QB is a bit of an exception if he doesn't make the AR, what do you do with him?

Placing him on the 1 game IR comes at an SMS disadvantage. If he's the # 4 QB he's not going to get many reps in practice so that's another issue. Even in pre season how many reps is he going to get unless he's expected to make the AR?

I'm hoping he can be the SY QB at the very least. Keeping 4 QB's after TC is not the usual plan?

In the case of Elgersma guaranteed he will be the SY QB or the 3rd QB holding the clipboard.  The more he plays the better, but that depends largely on Zach's health, I heard somewhere that he was physically knocked out of 4 games last season, which seems worrisome.

NFL draft starts on April 23rd. It will be interesting to see were some of the top Canadians are drafted. I think Bombers should still be looking at OL and DL first. However there are a couple of good WR and DBs that could be at #13 or #20. 

We could easily keep Zach plus 3 more QB's on the roster, because other than Wilson, the rest are on rookie deals.

Whether QB4 is on the PR or AR, same cap hit pretty much.  Especially with Zach's pay cut.

Unless Wilson has made some big progress in the offseason.

Quote from: theaardvark on April 19, 2026, 10:50:34 PMWe could easily keep Zach plus 3 more QB's on the roster, because other than Wilson, the rest are on rookie deals.

Whether QB4 is on the PR or AR, same cap hit pretty much.  Especially with Zach's pay cut.

Unless Wilson has made some big progress in the offseason.

SMS on PR is not the same as 1 game IR. Perkins and Thorne might accept a PR spot since they are pure rookies. I don't think it's fair to Wilson as a 3rd year player to be pushed to the PR. He needs to make the AR or be released IMO.

Elgersma is an odd exception as a Canadian drafted in the 2nd round.  You wouldn't expect an import to sit on the 1 game IR for an extended period unless he was actually injured.

Others have mentioned / thought he could be the # 3 SY QB. That would solve some of the issues.

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 19, 2026, 11:15:48 PMSMS on PR is not the same as 1 game IR. Perkins and Thorne might accept a PR spot since they are pure rookies. I don't think it's fair to Wilson as a 3rd year player to be pushed to the PR. He needs to make the AR or be released IMO.

Elgersma is an odd exception as a Canadian drafted in the 2nd round.  You wouldn't expect an import to sit on the 1 game IR for an extended period unless he was actually injured.

Others have mentioned / thought he could be the # 3 SY QB. That would solve some of the issues.

I see the QB room is Zach, QB2 is Perkins/Thorne or Wilson.  QB3 is Elgersma.  Id Wilson is #2, one of Perkins/Thorne is on the PR.

If Wilson can't make QB2, I can't see him being on the PR, so released, with either Perkins/Thorne as QB2, with the other on the PR.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 19, 2026, 05:24:12 PMIn the case of Elgersma guaranteed he will be the SY QB or the 3rd QB holding the clipboard.

I'm not sure how this can be guaranteed.  What is guaranteed is in week 1 you need a SY guy who can get 90%+ (95%+ or 98%+ preferred).  And you need a #2 who can take over the came if Zach gets his bell rung (basically any hit to the ground) and won't just throw the ball into the turf every snap like Brohm.

I agree that Elgersma probably doesn't have to be the best option at either, but he has to be competent "enough" at either to make the AR week 1.  #2 is probably a big ask for any raw CFL rookie, NAT or IMP -- however, Strev managed it, so it is possible.  SY is far more realistic if the dude is "tall" and/or "big" and/or gets coached up real good before week 1.

But just as likely he goes to PR or whatever.

Quote from: Tecno on April 20, 2026, 02:00:15 AMI'm not sure how this can be guaranteed.  What is guaranteed is in week 1 you need a SY guy who can get 90%+ (95%+ or 98%+ preferred).  And you need a #2 who can take over the came if Zach gets his bell rung (basically any hit to the ground) and won't just throw the ball into the turf every snap like Brohm.

I agree that Elgersma probably doesn't have to be the best option at either, but he has to be competent "enough" at either to make the AR week 1.  #2 is probably a big ask for any raw CFL rookie, NAT or IMP -- however, Strev managed it, so it is possible.  SY is far more realistic if the dude is "tall" and/or "big" and/or gets coached up real good before week 1.

But just as likely he goes to PR or whatever.

Last season Strev. was the #2 QB as well as the SY QB right up until he was injured, which could be Wilson's dual role if he makes use of his knowledge advantage over raw rookies and wins both jobs.  Elgersma might learn quicker being the #3 standing on the sidelines, but as a heralded draft pick I expect they'll want to get him more involved and show him off to the fans.

Strev doing #2&#3 was an anomaly, as would Wilson be if he does the same role week 1.  I'd think that we'd be trying to aim for our normal setup of dedicated SY + dev #2.  Having all of your QB role eggs in one Strev (or Wilson) basket was risky, as we found out when Strev got injured (twice).

However, you're right that Wilson is in the pound seats right now because he's the only guy we KNOW can do SY and/or run our O.  And he's not Brohm, so that's a plus.  At worst he's as bad as any average #2 out there.  And at worst he's a competent 93%+ SY.

I'm pretty sure no one would care if we cut him (he's not the future Zach), but he sure is great insurance right now who knows the system and isn't completely useless.

So maybe the plan is to roll with Wilson as SY, Elgersma (or another rookie who may beat him out in TC) as dev #2... BUT in reality if Zach goes down game 1 it'll be Wilson they put out on the field.

In my ideal world I'd rather see some other rookie flash and be named #2, and Elg flash at SY and be #3 and long-term dev guy.  That lets us dev 2 new QBs at the same time and let the best man win when Zach retires.

Quote from: theaardvark on April 19, 2026, 11:51:28 PMI see the QB room is Zach, QB2 is Perkins/Thorne or Wilson.  QB3 is Elgersma.  Id Wilson is #2, one of Perkins/Thorne is on the PR.

If Wilson can't make QB2, I can't see him being on the PR, so released, with either Perkins/Thorne as QB2, with the other on the PR.

Sounds about right. A # 3 QB needs to be moving up in his 3rd season or he's at risk of being moved out.  I have hopes that Perkins can show us something. Whether that is better than Wilson I don't know.

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 20, 2026, 03:14:03 PMSounds about right. A # 3 QB needs to be moving up in his 3rd season or he's at risk of being moved out.  I have hopes that Perkins can show us something. Whether that is better than Wilson I don't know.

Very true, Caleb Evans and Tyrie Adams find themselves waiting out in the cold when they couldn't establish their careers after more than 3 full seasons trying, if Wilson gets cut he's sure to be lined up behind them and old man Masoli as alternate options.

CFL SCOUTING BUREAU: SPRING EDITION

(Rank (Previous) | Name | POS | School | Hometown)

1 (1) | Akheem Mesidor | DL | Miami | Ottawa

2 (2) | Logan Taylor | OL | Boston College | Lunenburg, N.S.

3 (4) | Rene Konga | DL | Louisville | Ottawa

4 (5) | Wesley Bailey | DL | Louisville | Ottawa

5 (3) | Albert Reese IV | OL | Mississippi State | Edmonton

6 (10) | Rohan Jones | TE | Arkansas | Montreal

7 (–) | Kevin Cline | OL | Boston College | Boca Raton, Fla.

8 (7) | Dariel Djabome | LB | Rutgers | Longueuil, Que.

9 (6) | Jett Elad | DB | Rutgers | Mississauga, Ont.

10 (9) | Malcolm Bell | DB | Michigan State | Montreal

11 (19) | Giordano Vaccaro | OL | Purdue | Winnipeg

12 (8) | Nuer Gatkuoth | DL | Wake Forest | Edmonton

13 (12) | Darius Bell | OL | East Carolina | Hamilton, Ont.

14 (–) | Niklas Henning | OL | Queen's | Milton, Ont.

15 (11) | Nick Cenacle | WR | Hawaii | Montreal

16 (20) | Émeric Boutin | FB | Laval | L'Assomption, Que.

17 (–) | Malick Meiga | WR | Coastal Carolina | Montreal

18 (18) | Nate DeMontagnac | WR | North Dakota | Mississauga, Ont.

19 (15) | Jonathan Denis | OL | Louisiana Tech | Homestead, Fla.

20 (13) | Darius McKenzie | LB | South Alabama | Ottawa

Weird that Darius Bell (OL, East Carolina) so far down the board at 13, given that he's the one true centre that I imagine would go in the first round.  I wouldn't mind seeing the Bombers pick him up to shore up our inside run game, but I'd be happy with Vaccaro or Jonathan Denis if we take one of those guys with our #4, and grab Bell with pick #13 if he' s still available.  Albert Reese IV might be a good choice as well, given he's an absolute beast and has played both tackle positions and guard, and his measureables are pretty decent (6'6". 330#, 29 reps @ 225#, orangutan arms (34 7/8") with a 5.20 40 yard dash time.

Quote from: VictorRomano on April 21, 2026, 06:35:05 PMWeird that Darius Bell (OL, East Carolina) so far down the board at 13, given that he's the one true centre that I imagine would go in the first round.  I wouldn't mind seeing the Bombers pick him up to shore up our inside run game, but I'd be happy with Vaccaro or Jonathan Denis if we take one of those guys with our #4, and grab Bell with pick #13 if he' s still available.  Albert Reese IV might be a good choice as well, given he's an absolute beast and has played both tackle positions and guard, and his measureables are pretty decent (6'6". 330#, 29 reps @ 225#, orangutan arms (34 7/8") with a 5.20 40 yard dash time.

sounds like Reese will be getting a strong look at nfl so wont be available for a while lowering his draft value

Quote from: Pete on April 21, 2026, 07:33:12 PMsounds like Reese will be getting a strong look at nfl so wont be available for a while lowering his draft value

3Down has both Reese and Taylor likely signing in NFL to start.

Quote from: bunker on April 21, 2026, 08:47:03 PM3Down has both Reese and Taylor likely signing in NFL to start.

There may be 4 - 6 of these top ranked players that get drafted in the NFL or signed as UDFA. We'll know this week after their draft to see who is out of the picture initially.

I think there could be 10 to 12 of these players getting drafted or signed as a UDFA.

another mock draft this time on cfl.ca.
https://www.cfl.ca/2026/04/22/mock-draft-2-0-whos-going-first-overall-to-ottawa/
Ferugson has zero credibility and this draft is just another example of it. In fact he has the bombers not taking a olineman til the 8th round.

Quote from: Pete on April 23, 2026, 01:50:56 AManother mock draft this time on cfl.ca.
https://www.cfl.ca/2026/04/22/mock-draft-2-0-whos-going-first-overall-to-ottawa/
Ferugson has zero credibility and this draft is just another example of it. In fact he has the bombers not taking a olineman til the 8th round.

Ferguson is the absolute worst. Anything he writes is dribble.

Quote from: Pete on April 23, 2026, 01:50:56 AManother mock draft this time on cfl.ca.
https://www.cfl.ca/2026/04/22/mock-draft-2-0-whos-going-first-overall-to-ottawa/
Ferugson has zero credibility and this draft is just another example of it. In fact he has the bombers not taking a olineman til the 8th round.

I don't get this pick at all.  Pick another LB and have him ride the bench?

Quote from: Pigskin on April 22, 2026, 07:26:06 PMI think there could be 10 to 12 of these players getting drafted or signed as a UDFA.

Canadian players are getting more attention in the NFL draft each year. We can't blame players for taking that shot even as UDFA's. Obviously an UDFA is more likely to be available by the end of the season. That may or may not drop them in the rankings and / or selections. ( risk analysis ).

It will skew our CFL draft selections to when or if those choices get made.

Anybody know how many of the 2025 draft choices are still exploring NFL opportunities?

All that said, things are in limbo but having the # 4 pick should land us a great player. I'm looking forward to watching our draft but have no idea of who we really want if available. Some choices across the league just seem to say " huh ".

No matter. Let the good times roll. Just no more LB's thank you very much.

Sounds like one in the first round, after that a crapshoot. Could be just one, or could be 5.  Nothing higher than a forth rounder for a drafted guy, IMHO.

The UDFA signings will be key, especially if money is offered.  No money, you can draft him higher, probably won't stick.  Might take a year to "give up", but still, if he's good enough to get an offer, he's worth the wait.  Third rounder is fine, free second rounder for the right fit.

 

There is a mock global draft CFL.CA. 7 of the 18 picks are punters or kickers. The best of the rest has 30% or more of the same category.

One surprise is a QB being chosen with the last pick in round 2 by Sask.

Not much to say but the Bombers projected to pick a punter with their 1st pick as expected. It's just depth.

I don't think it makes any sense to take another LB at #4. Unless you plan on turning him into a DE. Djabome is 6'2" 237. Then at #13 to Gatkuoth 6'3" 237 who is a DE. Love to get the Manitoba kid Vaccaro at #4. If not we jump on Henning   . Then there's Demontaqnac (WR), and Bell (DB). Both look impressive.   

Speaking of LB's. What is the injury status of Novak? He might be hard pressed to make the roster with the other Canadian talent we already have.

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 23, 2026, 09:15:23 PMSpeaking of LB's. What is the injury status of Novak? He might be hard pressed to make the roster with the other Canadian talent we already have.

Must have shown well as a ST player but that might be where his career tops out along with Ethan Ball, but you never know which players will outperform expectations.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 23, 2026, 11:14:17 PMMust have shown well as a ST player but that might be where his career tops out along with Ethan Ball, but you never know which players will outperform expectations.

I'm just looking at it from a roster size and how many Canadian LB's we have. Cadwallader is very good and then we have Shay and Smith. I don't see room for 4 Canadian LB's. 

If we use a 2nd global as rotational depth on the DL, that's one less Canadian on the AR.

We added Santos-Knox to the mix so hard to expect and of the Canucks to see much time on defence.

I didn't think Novak played badly but he's 4th of 4 in that group.

Quote from: Pigskin on April 23, 2026, 08:26:04 PMI don't think it makes any sense to take another LB at #4.

No, it doesn't, and I'll go mental if we do it!  Our 1RDP Shay is basically just rotting on the vine.  Make use of him before going back to the draft.

I want hoggies all the way.  We're still questionable at LG, very questionable at C, and eyeing retirement at RG.  We might need 3 top OL in the next 1-3 seasons!!

I would take hoggies in 1R and 2R, and maybe find a way to trade for another 1R even higher up to get the top hoggie.

Mesidor drafted by the LA Chargers at #22. Only the sixth Canadian drafted in the 1st. round of the NFL draft.

Quote from: Pigskin on April 24, 2026, 12:57:00 PMMesidor drafted by the LA Chargers at #22. Only the sixth Canadian drafted in the 1st. round of the NFL draft.

Congratulations to the young man. That's impressive and means he won't be in the CFL any time soon if at all. 1st round should make him rich early with a signing bonus.

Quote from: Tecno on April 24, 2026, 02:08:02 AMI would take hoggies in 1R and 2R, and maybe find a way to trade for another 1R even higher up to get the top hoggie.

You and I both.  I'd go OL with R1 and R2 (Ideally, one is a centre), and if there's an NFL draft pick still left at our bonus 2nd rnd "Canadian snaps" pick, I think you grab an elite player who may not show up for 1-3 years or more.  Then I'd be looking at Canadian DL and DB content.  We have a bazillion CDN LBs and are not starving for talent there, and we look pretty decent at CDN WR this year.  The OL/DL seem to be our biggest need RIGHT NOW, so let's get some top prosepcts in the system, and hope we don't end up with another Faith Ekakitie.....

Quote from: VictorRomano on April 24, 2026, 02:17:08 PMYou and I both.  I'd go OL with R1 and R2 (Ideally, one is a centre), and if there's an NFL draft pick still left at our bonus 2nd rnd "Canadian snaps" pick, I think you grab an elite player who may not show up for 1-3 years or more.  Then I'd be looking at Canadian DL and DB content.  We have a bazillion CDN LBs and are not starving for talent there, and we look pretty decent at CDN WR this year.  The OL/DL seem to be our biggest need RIGHT NOW, so let's get some top prosepcts in the system, and hope we don't end up with another Faith Ekakitie.....

Our 1st pick should be an OL and some should be available.  Our 2nd pick is going to depend on who is actually left available weighted against BPA. I might lean towards a DL if he's ranked higher. We can't put 2 more OL on the AR in 2026. However a good DL may push Kornelson or Smeckle off the roster or to PR.

I wonder where OL Vibert and Uwubanmwen fit into the plans?  Is either a potential center or are both guards primarily?

I'm still not in favour of using our extra 2nd round pick on a " flyer". That pick should be good enough to make the AR this year and be a productive player. In theory I think that could be a DB or receiver. While we have bodies, someone could be easily be bumped with a 2nd round pick IMO.

So there you go. I suggest an OL, DL and DB or receiver with our top 3 picks. Round 4 is time to go for a flyer possibly.

I get that at times the pick is a BPA. I just hope that doesn't turn out to be another LB. It's the roster area we need the least help. If a decision is made to draft a LB I'd hope there is a plan to trade one we have etc.

The issue with dline is this draft is thin at that position. The only guy Id consider is Gatkuoth and hes not likely to be there in 2nd rd.
Id go 1st rd Oline, then db

I would take a flyer on Wes Bailey or Rene Konga in the later rounds if there still available.  But, I think both will get drafted or be signed as a UDFA.

Quote from: Pete on April 24, 2026, 04:21:53 PMThe issue with dline is this draft is thin at that position. The only guy Id consider is Gatkuoth and hes not likely to be there in 2nd rd.
Id go 1st rd Oline, then db

There are some good DB's that are in the top 20. It's not a high area of need but I'm not sure any of Ball, Kelly or Hallett are written in pen on the AR roster.

It might be a spot where we consider a ratio switch at safety. Again, we don't need that ratio switch but it does give us options elsewhere. Allen seemed to be coming along, but he may be in a big fight with the other imports.

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 24, 2026, 10:43:32 PMThere are some good DB's that are in the top 20. It's not a high area of need but I'm not sure any of Ball, Kelly or Hallett are written in pen on the AR roster.

It might be a spot where we consider a ratio switch at safety. Again, we don't need that ratio switch but it does give us options elsewhere. Allen seemed to be coming along, but he may be in a big fight with the other imports.

H
It feels like db should be a priority at least with our 2nd pick, Hallet is aging out, and Kelly hasn't shown to be a consistent performer at db/safety. Ball is basically a special team option only

Quote from: Pete on April 25, 2026, 12:55:36 AMH
It feels like db should be a priority at least with our 2nd pick, Hallet is aging out, and Kelly hasn't shown to be a consistent performer at db/safety. Ball is basically a special team option only

I don't disagree but I don't know whether any of the DB's available are capable of being starters. If the next T. Ford is out there and available then by all means.

Ford was an exception and there is a greater chance of finding one capable of playing safety.

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 24, 2026, 03:14:09 PMI wonder where OL Vibert and Uwubanmwen fit into the plans?  Is either a potential center or are both guards primarily?

We found out last season (by words, not by seeing) that Vibert can snap.  Word is he's the main competition for Eli for C, though I bet they'll give every chance to the IMPs to win the spot.  But the NATs have a natural advantage of a) already been here a while, and b) have played 3down before and know the CFL coverages.

But Vibert was a higher/worse-r round DP last year, right?  And as such he's just as likely to be cut as be starter.  He didn't even win a jumbo AR spot last year, even in the many games we only started 1 spare hoggie.

We haven't drafted a 1RDP hoggie since... Gray?  I'm taking hoggies in 1st & 2nd rounds unless by some odd coincidence the great ones are all gone by the time we pick.

Quote from: Tecno on April 25, 2026, 06:59:48 AMWe found out last season (by words, not by seeing) that Vibert can snap.  Word is he's the main competition for Eli for C, though I bet they'll give every chance to the IMPs to win the spot.  But the NATs have a natural advantage of a) already been here a while, and b) have played 3down before and know the CFL coverages.

But Vibert was a higher/worse-r round DP last year, right?  And as such he's just as likely to be cut as be starter.  He didn't even win a jumbo AR spot last year, even in the many games we only started 1 spare hoggie.

We haven't drafted a 1RDP hoggie since... Gray?  I'm taking hoggies in 1st & 2nd rounds unless by some odd coincidence the great ones are all gone by the time we pick.

I think an import C might be more likely than an import G even though we have Vanterpool that had some experience.

The team must have some pre conceived notion of how they expect to deploy the ratio. How candidates perform / compete in TC as well as new draft choices make this all TBD.

OL, receiver and safety are all possible ratio flip choices.

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 25, 2026, 03:06:49 AMI don't disagree but I don't know whether any of the DB's available are capable of being starters. If the next T. Ford is out there and available then by all means.

Ford was an exception and there is a greater chance of finding one capable of playing safety.

It's extremely rare to have a Natl. starting at DB other than at Safety, other than Ty Ford I can't think of any Natl. DB's currently playing. One of the keys to Richie Hall's defence coming together back in 2019 was allowing him to go all import across the board, Jeff Hecht being the last.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 25, 2026, 04:45:24 PMIt's extremely rare to have a Natl. starting at DB other than at Safety, other than Ty Ford I can't think of any Natl. DB's currently playing. One of the keys to Richie Hall's defence coming together back in 2018 was allowing him to go all import across the board, Jeff Hecht being the last.

Adriane Green in Calgary is another starting CB and he was available in free agency in 2025. Regardless a quality starter at safety is a good choice. Even though we don't need that ratio flip, it gives us other options. That's never a bad thing.

Eric Cumberbatch is listed at CB in Ottawa. I don't know whether he's started any games in 2025 or whether he wins the role to start in 2026. It does seem we're getting a few young talent in the CFL in the secondary.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 25, 2026, 04:45:24 PMIt's extremely rare to have a Natl. starting at DB other than at Safety, other than Ty Ford I can't think of any Natl. DB's currently playing. One of the keys to Richie Hall's defence coming together back in 2019 was allowing him to go all import across the board, Jeff Hecht being the last.

Tevaughn Campbell on the riders is another exception, but they are uncommon

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 25, 2026, 04:51:07 PMAdriane Green in Calgary is another starting CB and he was available in free agency in 2025. Regardless a quality starter at safety is a good choice. Even though we don't need that ratio flip, it gives us other options. That's never a bad thing.

So is Campbell (CB) for the Riders.

Quote from: Blue In BC on April 25, 2026, 02:53:47 PMI think an import C might be more likely than an import G even though we have Vanterpool that had some experience.

The team must have some pre conceived notion of how they expect to deploy the ratio. How candidates perform / compete in TC as well as new draft choices make this all TBD.

OL, receiver and safety are all possible ratio flip choices.

Bucky Williams is a good prospect and can play center or guard to give us flexibilty

It's still a question of what Ottawa does with the 1st pick. I doubt they end up trading it but there is always that chance.

Looking at their current depth chart, I don't see them picking a DL with that pick. Not after paying that global DL top DL money. Even their OL has some talent.

Two top DL accepted UDFA deals in the NFL.

Based on their proposed starting line up ( starting Canadian CB ) I wonder if they draft a DB as depth.

Obviously the mock draft ranking doesn't really mean much. However, it does have 3 OL and 2 DB's in the top 6 that aren't delayed by UDFA decisions.

Toronto and Edmonton are roster building so I expect them to draft an OL or DL in the 1st round.

What team in the 1st round goes outside any predictions or mock draft? lol

A team that is deep at nat is more likely to be interested in moving up, quality over quantity, they can give up picks to go up.

Rebuilding teams are looking for extra picks.

I don't think there are teams on either end of these spectrums, I don't see trades unless a specific player falls far enough to make trading up for him worthwhile.  Or down in the case of the bombers in 2024 to get 2 players they wanted.

I think this is the 1st time I've paid attention to how the top 20 ranked Canadians do in the NFL draft or UDFA agreements.

It seems like the norm now I suppose that so many have at least some interest. 2 drafted and 9 UDFA deals.

An UDFA could be available very soon or linger for the course of the 2026 season.

We probably don't see any of those drafted in the 1st round. In the 2nd round that's a different equation.

I'll be watching our draft to see how all this shakes out.

I am expecting a couple of trades before the draft starts tomorrow.

Quote from: Pigskin on April 27, 2026, 06:06:14 PMI am expecting a couple of trades before the draft starts tomorrow.

I just posted that Ottawa signed that DL, Vilain to a 3 year deal after acquiring his rights from the Argos. IMO they looked pretty good with their Canadian DL. This might free someone up from them as part of some sort of trade.

Any particular teams you are expecting a trade between?

It's not impossible that a player that agreed to a UDFA deal might still get drafted in the 1st 2 rounds. Obviously that's just pure speculation.

Whether Ottawa trades that 1st pick or who gets picked before us in round 1 also TBD.

The brain trust has some recalculation to do about if our where we choose an UDFA. Since there are so many, Pick # 20 maybe?  I was against taking a " flyer " before but I may have been too pessimistic earlier.

Ok. Just a pure guess on my part that we draft Vaccaro with our 1st pick if he's available at # 4. If not then Gatkuoth or Bell.

Watch them pick a player not listed in the top 20 that I've never heard of before. lol

UDFA deals are spec at best, unless there is actual money included.  Any idea if any of the top guys got money in their UDFA deals?

Quote from: theaardvark on April 27, 2026, 07:40:25 PMUDFA deals are spec at best, unless there is actual money included.  Any idea if any of the top guys got money in their UDFA deals?

I'd be surprised if there was any money involved and no guarantees.

I'm still wondering whether there are any trades in the 1st round. Ottawa seems open to a trade but the cost is usually too high.

Beyond the 1st round then something might happen I suppose.

Unless the Bombers really want Vaccaro and believe he won't be available at # 4 then there might be a discussion.

CFL Draft - Rumor

Consensus thinking out there is that Ottawa will keep that pick and go with an offensive lineman. Purdue lineman Giordano Vaccaro is being touted as the likely candidate to go first overall and according to writer Paul Friesen, the Winnipeg native will be at a giant draft party in his hometown, with some 200 guests invited.

Bold prediction: The REDBLACKS do NOT stick to picking at one and make a draft day deal with an antsy, lower-pick GM to move down a few rungs, and still get a quality offensive lineman while adding an extra pick or two, or even an established CFL player.

Bolder still: Kyle Walters is the 'antsy' GM in my scenario, and Vaccaro goes to the Bombers.

Note from ModAdmin:  For proper context, the above comment is a direct quote by Don Landry (writer for CFL.ca) as per the article below...

https://www.cfl.ca/2026/04/27/5-bold-predictions-for-the-cfl-canadian-draft/

Quote from: Ridermania on April 28, 2026, 03:38:48 PMCFL Draft - Rumor

Consensus thinking out there is that Ottawa will keep that pick and go with an offensive lineman. Purdue lineman Giordano Vaccaro is being touted as the likely candidate to go first overall and according to writer Paul Friesen, the Winnipeg native will be at a giant draft party in his hometown, with some 200 guests invited.

Bold prediction: The REDBLACKS do NOT stick to picking at one and make a draft day deal with an antsy, lower-pick GM to move down a few rungs, and still get a quality offensive lineman while adding an extra pick or two, or even an established CFL player.

Bolder still: Kyle Walters is the 'antsy' GM in my scenario, and Vaccaro goes to the Bombers.

Note from ModAdmin:  For proper context, the above comment is a direct quote by Don Landry (writer for CFL.ca) as per the article below...

https://www.cfl.ca/2026/04/27/5-bold-predictions-for-the-cfl-canadian-draft/

It all comes down to what is given up in that trade. On the surface I wouldn't imagine there are any players we want to give up to move up.

Maybe picks 4 and 20 to move up to 1, although Ottawa wants 4 and 13.

Quote from: Ridermania on April 28, 2026, 04:11:13 PMMaybe picks 4 and 20 to move up to 1, although Ottawa wants 4 and 13.

I'd be hesitant to give up # 13 as part of  the deal. I might be willing to give up # 20 AND # 24 as part of a deal to exchange 1st round picks.

I've said I think our 1st 1 picks make the AR in 2026. Beyond that it's a question of roster space to add newbies.

So I'm always in favour of a quality over quantity type of trade. Ottawa might have more interest in " volume " in that sense.

However a trade could include neg list and we can't totally say there isn't an exchange of some players in either direction.

What did we get out of our draft picks last season?

If Vaccaro as someone who is a meaningful contributor (and is one of those hometown boys who will stick aorund forever), give them all the draft picks in exchange.

Quote from: Jesse on April 28, 2026, 05:11:39 PMWhat did we get out of our draft picks last season?

If Vaccaro as someone who is a meaningful contributor (and is one of those hometown boys who will stick aorund forever), give them all the draft picks in exchange.

agreed.

Is Vaccaro the best OL in the draft.

Quote from: Pigskin on April 28, 2026, 09:30:32 PMIs Vaccaro the best OL in the draft.

I don't know but being a local kid doesn't hurt. I think I read he's a potential center / guard. Others may have a different skill set that may be greater or lesser.

So best available needs some context. I haven't read much about the others but just as an example, perhaps someone has some experience at either LT or RT, but would start his career as a guard?

If he's the want we want I hope we figure out how to do that.

Quote from: Jesse on April 28, 2026, 05:11:39 PMWhat did we get out of our draft picks last season?

If Vaccaro as someone who is a meaningful contributor (and is one of those hometown boys who will stick aorund forever), give them all the draft picks in exchange.

Alternatively, and given our coaching staff's history of not playing new players anyway, let Ottawa onboard them for a few years and then sign them in free agency with the hometown allure.

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 28, 2026, 11:13:16 PMAlternatively, and given our coaching staff's history of not playing new players anyway, let Ottawa onboard them for a few years and then sign them in free agency with the hometown allure.

I actually thought about that too, hit them with the Demski.

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 28, 2026, 11:13:16 PMAlternatively, and given our coaching staff's history of not playing new players anyway, let Ottawa onboard them for a few years and then sign them in free agency with the hometown allure.

watch the big guy end up here! I mean look how many people were at his draft
party!  :D

Quote from: Ridermania on April 28, 2026, 03:38:48 PMBold prediction: The REDBLACKS do NOT stick to picking at one and make a draft day deal with an antsy, lower-pick GM to move down a few rungs, and still get a quality offensive lineman while adding an extra pick or two, or even an established CFL player.

Bolder still: Kyle Walters is the 'antsy' GM in my scenario, and Vaccaro goes to the Bombers.

You almost predicted it!  Just off by 1 round.  I think KW did get antsy, but in the 2nd round, and for an unknown TE.

You'd think KW would be the cool old hand by now...

Quote from: Tecno on April 29, 2026, 02:55:48 AMYou almost predicted it!  Just off by 1 round.  I think KW did get antsy, but in the 2nd round, and for an unknown TE.

You'd think KW would be the cool old hand by now...

All the prospects are unknown to us. Why are we pretending otherwise. The talking heads at TSN definitely aren't watching CIS tape. The talking heads at 3down watch, but are just fans. Their rankings were almost opposite how the draft played out in real life with prospects from the predicted teens going first.

Today is the global draft at 10:00 ET

This draft will be a boom or bust. if we see Kline by next season then having both him and Gatkouth could be very good
 Ethan Stuart is a sleeper and cpuld be a great asset.
As far as the TE I yhink this is more an indicator of the type of offence Condell will run ie max protect.
 If we dont see Kline then this draft could easily be a bust esp giving an 2nd rndr up for no reason

Quote from: Pete on April 29, 2026, 01:50:10 PMThis draft will be a boom or bust. if we see Kline by next season then having both him and Gatkouth could be very good
 Ethan Stuart is a sleeper and cpuld be a great asset.
As far as the TE I yhink this is more an indicator of the type of offence Condell will run ie max protect.
 If we dont see Kline then this draft could easily be a bust esp giving an 2nd rndr up for no reason

It's Cline and Gatkuoth.

Quote from: Pete on April 29, 2026, 01:50:10 PMThis draft will be a boom or bust. if we see Kline by next season then having both him and Gatkouth could be very good
 Ethan Stuart is a sleeper and cpuld be a great asset.
As far as the TE I yhink this is more an indicator of the type of offence Condell will run ie max protect.
 If we dont see Kline then this draft could easily be a bust esp giving an 2nd rndr up for no reason

You might be right
When Condell was OC in Hamilton in 2019 he drafted a similar player at #10 in Kalinic.