https://www.bluebombers.com/2026/06/23/3-takeaways-from-the-dru-brown-trade/
Blue Bombers acquire quarterback Dru Brown in trade with Ottawa
WINNIPEG, MB., June 23, 2026 – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has acquired quarterback Dru Brown and a second round pick in the 2027 CFL Draft (previously traded by Winnipeg to Ottawa), in exchange for Winnipeg's first round selection in 2027 and a second round selection in 2028 (conditional).
Brown (5-11, 200; Oklahoma State; born: March 21, 1997, in Palo Alto, CA) first came to the CFL with the Blue Bombers in 2021 and spent three seasons with the club, appearing in 38 games over that span and going 2-1 in his three starts while also being a member of the 2021 Grey Cup championship team.
His negotiating rights were traded to Ottawa on January 18, 2024, before he became a free agent and after signing with the RedBlacks he was the team's starter in 2024-25.
Brown appeared in 11 games with Ottawa in 2025 and completed 71.5 percent of his passes for 2,389 yards with 14 touchdowns against 10 interceptions. In his first season with Ottawa the team was 8-6 in his 14 starts and advanced to the playoffs for the first time since 2018 as he threw for 3,959 yards and 18 touchdowns with 10 interceptions.
In 2023, his last season in Winnipeg before heading to Ottawa, Brown set a CFL record for the most touchdown passes thrown without an interception in a season with nine.
The Blue Bombers first signed Brown on March 11, 2020, but the 2020 season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He made his debut in 2021.
Brown split his college days between the College of San Mateo (2015), Hawaii (2016-17) and Oklahoma State (2018-19). He was named the MVP of the 2016 Hawaii Bowl after leading Hawaii to a win over Middle Tennessee.
Ummm...why?
Gives us some real depth at qb, nearly every team ly needed the backup for a number of games. Given our history lately with 1st round picks its not too high a price
Its a good idea to grab him for the future if this is Zach's last season. Just surprised they do it now.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 23, 2026, 10:29:32 PMUmmm...why?
Have you heard of the term succession planning? Have you heard of the term insurance policy?
Umm..why not?
Absolutely fantastic trade. Good day to be a Bomber fan. The son is back and the teacher is waiting to finish his training.
hopefully it doesn't mean Zach is hurt.
Quote from: The Zipp on June 23, 2026, 10:35:07 PMhopefully it doesn't mean Zach is hurt.
1st thing my buddy thought
My happy meter will be 110% as long as Zach is ok
My confidence meter just went from a B to an A for this club mid term
I always loved Dru. I think a bigger question wil be is he hurt and can remain healthy mid term.
Quote from: Pete on June 23, 2026, 10:32:00 PMGives us some real depth at qb, nearly every team ly needed the backup for a number of games. Given our history lately with 1st round picks its not too high a price
Price was reasonable
DRUSKI!
I don't know how they fit him on the roster - or what this means for Elgersma. But ultimately, you bring good players in and let them figure it out on the field.
Lots of possibilities here i guess.
Collaros might be playing through something the team is a little concerned about and want a more proven/ready backup if he can't go.
They want to contend this year and want to give Elgersma more time to learn the ropes and not throw him in if Zac gets hurt.
Maybe they're having some doubts about the overall ceiling of Elgersma and this move not only gives us depth this year but locks down a good qb that can take over as starter next season (assuming ZC retires).
That is a massive insurance policy behind Zach!
the risk is that Brown is on a one year contract so if hes in our succession plan we need to extend him
Quote from: Pete on June 23, 2026, 10:46:14 PMthe risk is that Brown is on a ne year contract so if hes in our succession plan we need to extend him
That probably isn't the main reason he's here. We don't have a back-up plan and the FA QBs were garbage so we kinda had to put Elgersma in that role which he completely isn't ready for.
one more thing Ott must be looking around maybe at Arbuckle?? They can't role with Mair can they??
Quote from: Jesse on June 23, 2026, 10:42:08 PMDRUSKI!
I don't know how they fit him on the roster - or what this means for Elgersma.
I suspect Perkins best be looking over his shoulder.
Quote from: VictorRomano on June 23, 2026, 10:50:43 PMI suspect Perkins best be looking over his shoulder.
He's the short yardage guy. He's not going anywhere. I bet Elgersma is on the reserve roster.
Quote from: Pete on June 23, 2026, 10:46:14 PMthe risk is that Brown is on a one year contract so if hes in our succession plan we need to extend him
5 yr 1mil total lock him up I know I'm dreaming but you get what I mean 😏
unnecessary and bad trade. succession plan, sure. but a 1st? with few quality canadians already? on a one year deal?? man I wish I had KW ego. Although I didn't realize at first the second is conditional. I guess we will see but at first glance, this pick looks closer to 2nd overall than 9th
I think its a great move. Having a viable #2 is far more important than the draft pick, and could be the difference between us making and not making the playoffs, were Zach to go down for a few games, or more. Also gives us a more viable replacement for Zach next year, if he retires. Also provides Walters with some leverage when negotiating with Zach, if Zach plays well this year and wants to come back in 2027. Win win as far as I can see.
Quote from: towelie on June 23, 2026, 10:45:11 PMLots of possibilities here i guess.
Collaros might be playing through something the team is a little concerned about and want a more proven/ready backup if he can't go.
They want to contend this year and want to give Elgersma more time to learn the ropes and not throw him in if Zac gets hurt.
Maybe they're having some doubts about the overall ceiling of Elgersma and this move not only gives us depth this year but locks down a good qb that can take over as starter next season (assuming ZC retires).
Best one two punch for future proofing our QB
Quote from: Jesse on June 23, 2026, 10:42:08 PMDRUSKI!
I don't know how they fit him on the roster - or what this means for Elgersma. But ultimately, you bring good players in and let them figure it out on the field.
Good point, Brown restructured his contract prior to this season but I imagine he's still making $250k-$300k as at the time of signing he was projected to be the Ottawa starter. I believe in the case of a trade the contract terms are assumed by the team that acquires the player, so should be a challenge for Walters to make this work.
Either way. This makes no sense for Ottawa. No experienced backup and Maier looks awful. Unless they have another trade in the works they may just be writing off this season...
Quote from: 3rdand1.5 on June 23, 2026, 10:49:56 PMone more thing Ott must be looking around maybe at Arbuckle?? They can't role with Mair can they??
Tor will not give in to that trade.
I won't be surprised if they sign Terry Wilson.
Brown isn't replacing Perkins as the SY QB, does that mean Elgersma gets booted to the PR?
Quote from: Jesse on June 23, 2026, 10:52:23 PMHe's the short yardage guy. He's not going anywhere. I bet Elgersma is on the reserve roster.
I'd be surprised if they wouldn't just hand the SY role to Elgersma.
Quote from: kkc60 on June 23, 2026, 11:02:25 PMunnecessary and bad trade. succession plan, sure. but a 1st? with few quality canadians already? on a one year deal?? man I wish I had KW ego
Now I have heard it all
Necessary for succession planning
Necessary for insurance
Necessary to give our young stud at QB time
Necessary for long term organizational stability at QB
Good trade
Yes we will loose a good Canadian player 100%
But we just got a good American vet
We can sign him cheap 1 yr deal non issue handled internally
Maybe trade for a draft pick as assets allow or sign a guy pluck a cdn off pr lots ways to shore up cdns which is always a concern
Quote from: pdirks67 on June 23, 2026, 11:06:56 PMI'd be surprised if they wouldn't just hand the SY role to Elgersma.
110%
Quote from: pdirks67 on June 23, 2026, 11:06:56 PMI'd be surprised if they wouldn't just hand the SY role to Elgersma.
He's 7 ft tall and not very sneaky, Perkins has been perfect.
Quote from: M.O.A.B. on June 23, 2026, 11:11:14 PMand why not?
Echo echo echo
Fffacts of life
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 23, 2026, 11:13:07 PMHe's 7 ft tall and not very sneaky, Perkins has been perfect.
He can do it, yes not as well but keep him on the AR as he is a special talent to develop
A good debate thought massive decision
Quote from: 3rdand1.5 on June 23, 2026, 10:49:56 PMone more thing Ott must be looking around maybe at Arbuckle?? They can't role with Mair can they??
Missing puzzle piece, Ottawa signs MBT.
https://3downnation.com/2026/06/23/ottawa-redblacks-to-sign-qb-mcleod-bethel-thompson-report/ (https://3downnation.com/2026/06/23/ottawa-redblacks-to-sign-qb-mcleod-bethel-thompson-report/)
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 23, 2026, 11:08:41 PMNow I have heard it all
Necessary for succession planning
Necessary for insurance
Necessary to give our young stud at QB time
Necessary for long term organizational stability at QB
Good trade
Yes we will loose a good Canadian player 100%
But we just got a good American vet
We can sign him cheap 1 yr deal non issue handled internally
Maybe trade for a draft pick as assets allow or sign a guy pluck a cdn off pr lots ways to shore up cdns which is always a concern
so then why did we spend a 2nd round pick on Elgersma? You're assuming Brown is cool with signing a one year deal, and assuming Elgersma is cool not having a shot to be the starter. He didn't even want to come here over the UFL for that exact reason.
Sure, it is nice having the depth and it very well could be a very big trade that pays off. But I think it's also a huge risk and replacing the potential impact of a first round pick with a "PR player" or trading another draft pick for a canadian (which seldom happens, and when it does it's for depth players mostly) is downplaying the cost
Seems strange to me. Ottawa lost it's backup QB for a couple of draft picks? We added a big salary 2nd string QB on a 1 year contract. How is that future planning?
Is Collaros hurt? One of the backup QB's? Where did we get the SMS room?
Best thing is we don't have to worry about our back QB now.
Oh MBT it is
https://3downnation.com/2026/06/23/ottawa-redblacks-to-sign-qb-mcleod-bethel-thompson-report/
It's a bit weird. How are we going to fit another $320,000 on the roster? What is happening to Perkins and Elgersma and the roster now? Is Zach okay? Why now instead of the off-season? The cost is less than I first thought. We gave up a first, but got our own second rounder back. That's not terrible. Wonder what the Bombers know that we don't. Elgersma happy? Not happy? What's the condition on the other 2028 pick? If he re-signs?
Quote from: kkc60 on June 23, 2026, 11:30:27 PMso then why did we spend a 2nd round pick on Elgersma? You're assuming Brown is cool with signing a one year deal, and assuming Elgersma is cool not having a shot to be the starter. He didn't even want to come here over the UFL for that exact reason.
Sure, it is nice having the depth and it very well could be a very big trade that pays off. But I think it's also a huge risk and replacing the potential impact of a first round pick with a "PR player" or trading another draft pick for a canadian (which seldom happens, and when it does it's for depth players mostly) is downplaying the cost
So why not keep both
1. Godfather Zach
2. Father Dru
3. Son Elgersma
Qb solidified for 15 years in dream scenario
That's organizational long term planning
That's vision
That's good biz
That's keeping butts in stands
Sorry this is a good news as there is
LETS GO BOMBERS!!!!
Management just hit an in the park HR
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 23, 2026, 11:36:53 PMSo why not keep both
1. Godfather Zach
2. Father Dru
3. Son Elgersma
Qb solidified for 15 years in dream scenario
That's organizational long term planning
That's vision
That's good biz
That's keeping butts in stands
Sorry this is a good news as there is
LETS GO BOMBERS!!!!
Management just hit an in the park HR
cool you missed all my points. yay management!!
Quote from: kkc60 on June 23, 2026, 11:37:57 PMcool you missed all my points. yay management!!
Do we have ANY guarantee Elgersma won't get hurt or like it here or be any good? He sure took his time getting here, and since I work in HR heck I'd have a backup plan to him too.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 23, 2026, 11:35:23 PMIt's a bit weird. How are we going to fit another $320,000 on the roster? What is happening to Perkins and Elgersma and the roster now? Is Zach okay? Why now instead of the off-season? The cost is less than I first thought. We gave up a first, but got our own second rounder back. That's not terrible. Wonder what the Bombers know that we don't. Elgersma happy? Not happy? What's the condition on the other 2028 pick? If he re-signs?
If he re-signs and plays a certain amount of games (haven't seen the specific number yet).
Quote from: kkc60 on June 23, 2026, 11:30:27 PMso then why did we spend a 2nd round pick on Elgersma? You're assuming Brown is cool with signing a one year deal, and assuming Elgersma is cool not having a shot to be the starter. He didn't even want to come here over the UFL for that exact reason.
Sure, it is nice having the depth and it very well could be a very big trade that pays off. But I think it's also a huge risk and replacing the potential impact of a first round pick with a "PR player" or trading another draft pick for a canadian (which seldom happens, and when it does it's for depth players mostly) is downplaying the cost
Tricky situation, don't want to see them blow it with Elgersma, they have to convince him he will become the starting QB within 2 years. Brown had his shot and is rehabbing his career, I take it he wanted to bale from Ottawa and accepts whatever comes his way. Zach is going to be ecstatic having him back in the QB room, he mentions their friendship often.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 23, 2026, 11:35:23 PMIt's a bit weird. How are we going to fit another $320,000 on the roster? What is happening to Perkins and Elgersma and the roster now?
Ya, the main concern now is SMS implications. Especially if he never sees the field if Zach stays upright.
Are we sure it's $320k? I thought OTT anointed him starter when he signed? That would mean starter-but-somewhat-unproven salary. I guess $320k sounds right, but seems a little low for the guy many thought was the Next Big Thing.
Either way, we went from a very affordable QB room to now one of the most expensive. This will hamstring late-season roster upgrades.
For those not understanding... a trade means we must honor the deal OTT had with him. We cannot renegotiate down, unless Dru is willing (why would he?).
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 23, 2026, 11:35:23 PMWhy now instead of the off-season?
Because Dinwiddie didn't know how bad he was until he got to work with him through a full camp. Dinwiddie likely thought he was their starter. What he saw was so bad that he decided to go with Maier and throw away every game until they got a real QB. Now, this might mean Dru is bad
for Dinwiddie, not that he's objectively bad. They might just not mesh.
Quote from: kkc60 on June 23, 2026, 11:37:57 PMcool you missed all my points. yay management!!
Cool so missed all my counter pts
Yay to unnecessary worry
Your points were fear based worry not worth countering
Digging deeper is harder than seeing the light provided by another party imo
Elgersma is part of the equation, has a good shot at starter and almost guarantee at backup. A 2nd rounder was extreme value.
This might accelerate his development as no pressure to do it from the start but can when ready, I like to slow roast my prospect, especially QBs, just like goalies
No risk, no cost other than one good cdn
Most will love this deal
Embrace it, its gold
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 23, 2026, 11:35:23 PMIt's a bit weird. How are we going to fit another $320,000 on the roster? What is happening to Perkins and Elgersma and the roster now? Is Zach okay? Why now instead of the off-season? The cost is less than I first thought. We gave up a first, but got our own second rounder back. That's not terrible. Wonder what the Bombers know that we don't. Elgersma happy? Not happy? What's the condition on the other 2028 pick? If he re-signs?
My understanding is that Brown already received 150,000 signing bonus in January to restructure his contract so the hit is more like 171,000. He also had an additional 54,000 in playtime incentives, but likley won't collect much of that, unless Zach is out for a lot of games, in which case we could 6 game Zach to recoup the money. Plus he's already played 2 games, which takes another 20,000 off the cost of his salary. Small price to pay for what we got in terms of salary IMO.
Quote from: kkc60 on June 23, 2026, 11:30:27 PMso then why did we spend a 2nd round pick on Elgersma? You're assuming Brown is cool with signing a one year deal, and assuming Elgersma is cool not having a shot to be the starter. He didn't even want to come here over the UFL for that exact reason.
Sure, it is nice having the depth and it very well could be a very big trade that pays off. But I think it's also a huge risk and replacing the potential impact of a first round pick with a "PR player" or trading another draft pick for a canadian (which seldom happens, and when it does it's for depth players mostly) is downplaying the cost
Dinwiddie was not the RedBlack's GM when we drafted Elgersma (2025). Dru (probably) was not available for trade at that time.
Quote from: TBURGESS on June 23, 2026, 11:32:57 PMSeems strange to me. Ottawa lost it's backup QB for a couple of draft picks? We added a big salary 2nd string QB on a 1 year contract. How is that future planning?
Ya, the MBT signing means we got r***d on this deal. OTT would have been willing to accept FAR less for Dru because their only goal was shedding him to make way for a QB they actually wanted. Heck, they may have just outright cut Dru had no team taken the bait.
OTT didn't want/need assets for Dru, they just wanted to shed the SMS!
KW will be kicking himself that he gave away a 1RDP when OTT would have probably taken a 3RDP, because their alternative was taking NOTHING. Only if another team out there was desperate for an iffy/unproven backup would we have been outbid.
As usual, Mafia is not cut-throat, greedy, or nasty enough. We play it so boy scout, and the vultures out there take advantage.
Quote from: bunker on June 23, 2026, 11:48:53 PMMy understanding is that Brown already received 150,000 signing bonus in January to restructure his contract so the hit is more like 171,000. He also had an additional 54,000 in playtime incentives, but likley won't collect much of that, unless Zach is out for a lot of games, in which case we could 6 game Zach to recoup the money. Plus he's already played 2 games, which takes another 20,000 off the cost of his salary. Small price to pay for what we got in terms of salary IMO.
This may be as low as 116k
9) Dru Brown, Ottawa Redblacks (A)
Hard money: $321,000
Maximum value: $387,000
Browns's 2026 compensation comes from a $150,000 signing bonus, $131,000 base salary, $15,000 in marketing money, $15,000 in housing, and a $10,000 travel allowance. He has an additional $66,000 available in playtime, statistical, all-star and award incentives.https://3downnation.com/2026/05/04/highest-paid-quarterbacks-for-2026-canadian-football-league-season/
Quote from: Tecno on June 23, 2026, 11:49:33 PMYa, the MBT signing means we got r***d on this deal. OTT would have been willing to accept FAR less for Dru because their only goal was shedding him to make way for a QB they actually wanted. Heck, they may have just outright cut Dru had no team taken the bait.
OTT didn't want/need assets for Dru, they just wanted to shed the SMS!
KW will be kicking himself that he gave away a 1RDP when OTT would have probably taken a 3RDP, because their alternative was taking NOTHING. Only if another team out there was desperate for an iffy/unproven backup would we have been outbid.
As usual, Mafia is not cut-throat, greedy, or nasty enough. We play it so boy scout, and the vultures out there take advantage.
It's easy to say that when now you know they signed MBT. Hindsight is 20/20.
IF they did not signed MBT, I don't think you will say the same.
Quote from: Tecno on June 23, 2026, 11:49:33 PMYa, the MBT signing means we got r***d on this deal. OTT would have been willing to accept FAR less for Dru because their only goal was shedding him to make way for a QB they actually wanted. Heck, they may have just outright cut Dru had no team taken the bait.
OTT didn't want/need assets for Dru, they just wanted to shed the SMS!
KW will be kicking himself that he gave away a 1RDP when OTT would have probably taken a 3RDP, because their alternative was taking NOTHING. Only if another team out there was desperate for an iffy/unproven backup would we have been outbid.
As usual, Mafia is not cut-throat, greedy, or nasty enough. We play it so boy scout, and the vultures out there take advantage.
Wut.. Why does signing a vet QB after the fact have any bearing on your impression of the trade one way or the other?
Quote from: M.O.A.B. on June 23, 2026, 11:53:02 PMIt's easy to say that when now you know they signed MBT.
They obviously had to sign a vet now that they traded away the back-up.
Quote from: tlf on June 23, 2026, 11:43:05 PMDo we have ANY guarantee Elgersma won't get hurt or like it here or be any good? He sure took his time getting here, and since I work in HR heck I'd have a backup plan to him too.
Well, we all knew going into the season that it was Zach or bust. Perkins and Elgersma wouldn't be winning any games as starter, because they are both too green.
Elgersma is like an Alexander project: give them 2-3 years to develop properly. If he's the next Rourke then the reins are his.
Dru is the "we have a fighting chance" QB we needed now
IF Zach were to get hurt. And I think we got the better deal vs signing MBT. If you believe we will need a backup for more than half a game this season, Dru is our best option. Myself, I would have thrown the dice at just keeping Zach in the game. But I'm a gambler... KW is not.
Quote from: bunker on June 23, 2026, 11:48:53 PMMy understanding is that Brown already received 150,000 signing bonus in January to restructure his contract so the hit is more like 171,000.
If we're under $200k SMS hit for Dru then I'm MUCH happier about things. Even though we got the 1RDP stolen from us on this "trade", I can live with that, as many here say, our 1RDPs are mostly mediocre picks anyway.
Quote from: Tecno on June 23, 2026, 11:56:08 PMIf we're under $200k SMS hit for Dru then I'm MUCH happier about things. Even though we got the 1RDP stolen from us on this "trade", I can live with that, as many here say, our 1RDPs are mostly mediocre picks anyway.
Lol. Stolen.
I guess it's not a bad swing. Trust the Bombers know the QB room better than we do and I suppose the very early read is we could go into next year with Brown, Elgersma and Perkins. That's a better hand than Elgersma, Perkins, someone new but it's still a bit interesting and it's definitely a gamble given that Dinwiddie knows QBs as well as anyone and Brown hasn't been able to stay healthy or do much since he's been gone.
Quote from: Jesse on June 23, 2026, 11:52:07 PMThis may be as low as 116k
9) Dru Brown, Ottawa Redblacks (A)
Hard money: $321,000
Maximum value: $387,000
Browns's 2026 compensation comes from a $150,000 signing bonus, $131,000 base salary, $15,000 in marketing money, $15,000 in housing, and a $10,000 travel allowance. He has an additional $66,000 available in playtime, statistical, all-star and award incentives.
https://3downnation.com/2026/05/04/highest-paid-quarterbacks-for-2026-canadian-football-league-season/
cheap like borscht
Quote from: Jesse on June 23, 2026, 11:52:07 PM$15,000 in marketing money
Oh noes! We're going to have to fake the MMM like every other team does! Mafia moral compass going haywire right about now.
::) ::) 8)
I wonder if the league has a way to just convert promised MMM into hard salary. Bet we take that out.
Vibert moved to PR. Could be Brown goes to the RR this week and Elgersma or Perkins goes after this week?
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 23, 2026, 11:57:03 PMI guess it's not a bad swing. Trust the Bombers know the QB room better than we do and I suppose the very early read is we could go into next year with Brown, Elgersma and Perkins. That's a better hand than Elgersma, Perkins, someone new but it's still a bit interesting and it's definitely a gamble given that Dinwiddie knows QBs as well as anyone and Brown hasn't been able to stay healthy or do much since he's been gone.
Very little gambled here
More like doubled down on insurance
Nice to see your tune changed lol
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 23, 2026, 11:58:43 PMVery little gambled here
More like doubled down on insurance
Nice to see your tune changed lol
Let's see what it costs us first, hey? And what Brown actually does when he gets here before we fall over ourselves and say it's the best deal ever. It's going to have roster implications, the current QB room is going to change, and even if Brown is mostly paid out he's still more expensive than either of our current backups so there's a delta of some kind.
Quote from: M.O.A.B. on June 23, 2026, 11:48:57 PMDinwiddie was not the RedBlack's GM when we drafted Elgersma (2025). Dru (probably) was not available for trade at that time.
Well said,agree
Quote from: Tecno on June 23, 2026, 11:49:33 PMYa, the MBT signing means we got r***d on this deal. OTT would have been willing to accept FAR less for Dru because their only goal was shedding him to make way for a QB they actually wanted. Heck, they may have just outright cut Dru had no team taken the bait.
OTT didn't want/need assets for Dru, they just wanted to shed the SMS!
KW will be kicking himself that he gave away a 1RDP when OTT would have probably taken a 3RDP, because their alternative was taking NOTHING. Only if another team out there was desperate for an iffy/unproven backup would we have been outbid.
As usual, Mafia is not cut-throat, greedy, or nasty enough. We play it so boy scout, and the vultures out there take advantage.
Nah way reasonable trade both ways
Mafia is good but yes they are not Murphy cutthroat and I think that's just fine with me
Quote from: M.O.A.B. on June 23, 2026, 11:53:02 PMIt's easy to say that when now you know they signed MBT. Hindsight is 20/20.
IF they did not signed MBT, I don't think you will say the same.
But OTT calls you up sniffing for an unexpected trade. Offers you their supposed #1 QB. Ya, you start smelling that miasma wafting your way from our nation's capital.
Your Bad-Tradar starts tingling. You hang up and brainstorm with your braintrust. You ask yourself, why is OTT doing this? Who could be on their radar? What are they trying to accomplish? Are they trying to do WFC a solid because they are Nice Folk?
I'd say most smart people suss it out. And to be honest, I bet we did... it's just that we don't care. We're so straight laced and play everything "fair". We're like "ya, we know you're desperate and will take 3RDP, but Dru is a great add for us right now so here, we'll give you a fair 1RDP". OTT is dog river. WPG is Woolerton.
Whatever, it's ok. There is more to life than wringing every last ounce of blood out of an opponent. However, the blood-wringers are the teams that seem to be winning the GC lately...
Quote from: Tecno on June 23, 2026, 11:57:54 PMOh noes! We're going to have to fake the MMM like every other team does! Mafia moral compass going haywire right about now.
::) ::) 8)
I wonder if the league has a way to just convert promised MMM into hard salary. Bet we take that out.
What are going on about now, every contract we have access to shows marketing money. Brady, White, Demski, Broxton, Holm, Nichols, etc.
Quote from: Tecno on June 23, 2026, 11:54:18 PMWell, we all knew going into the season that it was Zach or bust. Perkins and Elgersma wouldn't be winning any games as starter, because they are both too green.
Elgersma is like an Alexander project: give them 2-3 years to develop properly. If he's the next Rourke then the reins are his.
Dru is the "we have a fighting chance" QB we needed now IF Zach were to get hurt. And I think we got the better deal vs signing MBT. If you believe we will need a backup for more than half a game this season, Dru is our best option. Myself, I would have thrown the dice at just keeping Zach in the game. But I'm a gambler... KW is not.
MBT is awful. I'd 10x rather have Dru than him. I quite like the deal.
I was joking (joking people joking!!) with a friend that since we have Dru now if Elgersma could help out the D a bit and knock down passes on our D due to his height.
Onwards, nice to see Dru back. He'll play better when he's in an environment he's happier in.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 24, 2026, 12:01:16 AMLet's see what it costs us first, hey? And what Brown actually does when he gets here before we fall over ourselves and say it's the best deal ever. It's going to have roster implications, the current QB room is going to change, and even if Brown is mostly paid out he's still more expensive than either of our current backups so there's a delta of some kind.
Nah you didn't like the deal I do
Its a good deal regardless imo
Nobody called it the best deal ever but thanks for the return to fantasy 🏝
Roster implications yes but whatever thems the dets
Brown will come cheap for what he is imo
We know what Brown is already
7th inning stretch anyone
Quote from: M.O.A.B. on June 23, 2026, 11:56:37 PMLol. Stolen.
Colloquialisms. When a 3rd party sees a deal between 2 other parties that is highly lopsided, one tends to say someone got "robbed". Robbed. Stolen. Whatever.
Surely you're not saying we couldn't have made a better deal? What other team was going to relieve OTT of Dru? EDM maybe? That's probably it.
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 12:03:21 AMBut OTT calls you up sniffing for an unexpected trade. Offers you their supposed #1 QB. Ya, you start smelling that miasma wafting your way from our nation's capital.
Your Bad-Tradar starts tingling. You hang up and brainstorm with your braintrust. You ask yourself, why is OTT doing this? Who could be on their radar? What are they trying to accomplish? Are they trying to do WFC a solid because they are Nice Folk?
I'd say most smart people suss it out. And to be honest, I bet we did... it's just that we don't care. We're so straight laced and play everything "fair". We're like "ya, we know you're desperate and will take 3RDP, but Dru is a great add for us right now so here, we'll give you a fair 1RDP". OTT is dog river. WPG is Woolerton.
Whatever, it's ok. There is more to life than wringing every last ounce of blood out of an opponent. However, the blood-wringers are the teams that seem to be winning the GC lately...
Tinfoil on sale sounds like this week
Not buying it
I would have jumped
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 12:03:21 AMBut OTT calls you up sniffing for an unexpected trade. Offers you their supposed #1 QB. Ya, you start smelling that miasma wafting your way from our nation's capital.
Your Bad-Tradar starts tingling. You hang up and brainstorm with your braintrust. You ask yourself, why is OTT doing this? Who could be on their radar? What are they trying to accomplish? Are they trying to do WFC a solid because they are Nice Folk?
I'd say most smart people suss it out. And to be honest, I bet we did... it's just that we don't care. We're so straight laced and play everything "fair". We're like "ya, we know you're desperate and will take 3RDP, but Dru is a great add for us right now so here, we'll give you a fair 1RDP". OTT is dog river. WPG is Woolerton.
Whatever, it's ok. There is more to life than wringing every last ounce of blood out of an opponent. However, the blood-wringers are the teams that seem to be winning the GC lately...
You make your decision based on what makes your team better. Not based on what other teams will do.
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 12:03:21 AMBut OTT calls you up sniffing for an unexpected trade. Offers you their supposed #1 QB. Ya, you start smelling that miasma wafting your way from our nation's capital.
Your Bad-Tradar starts tingling. You hang up and brainstorm with your braintrust. You ask yourself, why is OTT doing this? Who could be on their radar? What are they trying to accomplish? Are they trying to do WFC a solid because they are Nice Folk?
I'd say most smart people suss it out. And to be honest, I bet we did... it's just that we don't care. We're so straight laced and play everything "fair". We're like "ya, we know you're desperate and will take 3RDP, but Dru is a great add for us right now so here, we'll give you a fair 1RDP". OTT is dog river. WPG is Woolerton.
Whatever, it's ok. There is more to life than wringing every last ounce of blood out of an opponent. However, the blood-wringers are the teams that seem to be winning the GC lately...
You have no idea what led up to our offer. Off the top of my head, neither Sask nor Calgary have much backing up their #1 QB, and VAJ is injury prone, and Harris is 40. I doubt Dinwiddie just called up Walters without checking out other team's interest, and the first round pick may have been what was necessary to obtain Drew.
Quote from: M.O.A.B. on June 24, 2026, 12:08:24 AMYou make your decision based on what makes your team better. Not based on what other teams will do.
Facts
Quote from: bunker on June 24, 2026, 12:08:43 AMYou have no idea what led up to our offer. Off the top of my head, neither Sask nor Calgary have much backing up their #1 QB, and VAJ is injury prone, and Harris is 40. I doubt Dinwiddie just called up Walters without checking out other team's interest, and the first round pick may have been what was necessary to obtain Drew.
Facts 2.0
Great insight both of you
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 24, 2026, 12:09:28 AMFacts
Facts 2.0
Great insight both of you
Mind your own business... just get business done. Period.
Quote from: tlf on June 24, 2026, 12:10:55 AMMind your own business... just get business done. Period.
Cleaver man well said
I might use that but don't tell my wife that one 🐵
Quote from: Jesse on June 24, 2026, 12:03:33 AMWhat are going on about now, every contract we have access to shows marketing money. Brady, White, Demski, Broxton, Holm, Nichols, etc.
I thought it was less people than that. I know Zach & Brady, that's it. And when we get the number it's always like $10k (maybe $20 for superstars). I seriously doubt Holm/Nichols are getting more than $5k MMM, if not outright $0.
And you can easily make a case for our top superstars getting MMM. How do you make a case for our backup QB? Is any backup QB (who wasn't anointed starter previously) getting MMM? I can't think of any. I'm sure Elgersma & Perkins aren't getting any, and neither did Wilson last season.
My main point still stands, we use MMM less than any other team, especially the MMM-"abusers" like BC. And you're missing my tongue-in-cheek -- I think we should be paying everyone league-max MMM. It's a SMS cheat code that we're too boy scout to
abuse like the teams that serious about winning.
Quote from: M.O.A.B. on June 24, 2026, 12:08:24 AMYou make your decision based on what makes your team better. Not based on what other teams will do.
That's first-order thinking. That's why we often lose. It's not just this trade, it's what we do on D and O. We are the chess player thinking 1 play ahead. The other team or coordinator is thinking 3.
It seems pervasive in the WFC culture. It goes hand in hand with their KISS. So how's that working out for us last year and this?
At least I gave KW/Mafia credit for having scruples! The alternative is that they are simpletons!
It's like when I watch for a whole year how teams learn to key on something we do, say an obvious route, and then they start jumping it and INTing us. And our reaction is just keep doing it, or ditch the play. Lapo, when here, would use it as bait to get the jumping DB burnt as there was a guy sneaking in behind him. 2nd, 3rd order thinking.
I'm actually hopeful we are getting back to that with high-brain Condell. He seems very much capable of higher order thinking. And I couldn't be happier. (Buck wasn't capable, either, and that's why I'm not too afraid of BC winning a cup.)
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 12:12:55 AMI thought it was less people than that. I know Zach & Brady, that's it. And when we get the number it's always like $10k (maybe $20 for superstars). I seriously doubt Holm/Nichols are getting more than $5k MMM, if not outright $0.
And you can easily make a case for our top superstars getting MMM. How do you make a case for our backup QB? Is any backup QB (who wasn't anointed starter previously) getting MMM? I can't think of any. I'm sure Elgersma & Perkins aren't getting any, and neither did Wilson last season.
My main point still stands, we use MMM less than any other team, especially the MMM-"abusers" like BC. And you're missing my tongue-in-cheek -- I think we should be paying everyone league-max MMM. It's a SMS cheat code that we're too boy scout to abuse like the teams that serious about winning.
Only Rourke and Kelly have MM for over 100k. Virtually every other player on every other team is between 5-25k.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 23, 2026, 11:57:03 PMgiven that Dinwiddie knows QBs as well as anyone and Brown hasn't been able to stay healthy or do much since he's been gone.
I recall Dru having 1, maybe 2 good games since leaving. He really hasn't done anything as a starter, and as you said, is always hurt.
Yes, it is disturbing Dinwiddie gave him the thumbs down. However, it could be a personality mismatch. Dru is like the anti-Dinwiddie. Dinwiddie is a hot-head firebrand. Dru is like the most chill guy ever.
For F1 fans, Dru is Kimi Raikonen. No emotion at all. Wins? Ok great. Loses? Ok great. Big TD, ok great. INT, ok great.
Zach isn't terribly emotive on the field, but man, Zach seems like a bundle of emotional energy compared to Dru!! At least Zach will give himself a little YES on a good TD.
Quote from: bunker on June 24, 2026, 12:08:43 AMYou have no idea what led up to our offer. Off the top of my head, neither Sask nor Calgary have much backing up their #1 QB, and VAJ is injury prone, and Harris is 40. I doubt Dinwiddie just called up Walters without checking out other team's interest, and the first round pick may have been what was necessary to obtain Drew.
Brown's agent would have been shopping him and I can't see any reason the Riders wouldn't be interested at that price, so Walters had to act fast or miss out. Dinwiddie must have had the deal with MBT in his pocket ready to go before he pulled the trigger on Brown. Obvious difference in personality between the 2, Dinwiddie probably couldn't ring enough fire out of Brown.
(https://media.tenor.com/CBgLHDlKl98AAAAC/wedding-season-owen-wilson.gif)
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 12:12:55 AMI thought it was less people than that. I know Zach & Brady, that's it. And when we get the number it's always like $10k (maybe $20 for superstars). I seriously doubt Holm/Nichols are getting more than $5k MMM, if not outright $0.
And you can easily make a case for our top superstars getting MMM. How do you make a case for our backup QB? Is any backup QB (who wasn't anointed starter previously) getting MMM? I can't think of any. I'm sure Elgersma & Perkins aren't getting any, and neither did Wilson last season.
My main point still stands, we use MMM less than any other team, especially the MMM-"abusers" like BC. And you're missing my tongue-in-cheek -- I think we should be paying everyone league-max MMM. It's a SMS cheat code that we're too boy scout to abuse like the teams that serious about winning.
Easy solution for marketing money, "Welcome to Churchill Dru Brown, next up the Pas!".
Quote from: bunker on June 24, 2026, 12:08:43 AMYou have no idea what led up to our offer. Off the top of my head, neither Sask nor Calgary have much backing up their #1 QB, and VAJ is injury prone, and Harris is 40. I doubt Dinwiddie just called up Walters without checking out other team's interest, and the first round pick may have been what was necessary to obtain Drew.
Oh, I guarantee OTT shopped Dru around. They probably called everyone. Because you want a bidding war.
The thing is, clearly, no other team was willing to give up a 1RDP for him. Heck, we don't even know if another team was willing to give up a 2RDP, though that does seem possible.
We may even find out. Maybe. KW could have a conference and defend his high price by saying there was no other option on the table because of a bidding war. However, OTT could have just been playing us & lying. And like I said, if he thought it was fair, I can't see KW dickering on price.
As for SSK/CGY, ya, possible suitors. I think Dickenson The Greater would be a good fit. But I can't see Dru being popular in SSK and meshing with Mace.
Quote from: bunker on June 24, 2026, 12:08:43 AMYou have no idea what led up to our offer. Off the top of my head, neither Sask nor Calgary have much backing up their #1 QB, and VAJ is injury prone, and Harris is 40. I doubt Dinwiddie just called up Walters without checking out other team's interest, and the first round pick may have been what was necessary to obtain Drew.
Nah, that makes too much sense.
We were fleeced without any negotiation whatsoever. Because we're too nice.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 23, 2026, 11:57:03 PMBrown hasn't been able to stay healthy or do much since he's been gone.
Healthy kept him from doing as well as could
Had some good games
Injuries a valid concern 100%, that's why he is cheap
Kinda like when we got Zach
Quote from: Jesse on June 24, 2026, 12:23:36 AMOnly Rourke and Kelly have MM for over 100k. Virtually every other player on every other team is between 5-25k.
Pretty sure most star QBs signed since Rourke's debacle have been getting $50k MMM. Like Alexander and Kelly? That seems to be the accepted "my name isn't Doman" value.
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 12:27:42 AMI recall Dru having 1, maybe 2 good games since leaving. He really hasn't done anything as a starter, and as you said, is always hurt.
Yes, it is disturbing Dinwiddie gave him the thumbs down. However, it could be a personality mismatch. Dru is like the anti-Dinwiddie. Dinwiddie is a hot-head firebrand. Dru is like the most chill guy ever.
For F1 fans, Dru is Kimi Raikonen. No emotion at all. Wins? Ok great. Loses? Ok great. Big TD, ok great. INT, ok great.
Zach isn't terribly emotive on the field, but man, Zach seems like a bundle of emotional energy compared to Dru!! At least Zach will give himself a little YES on a good TD.
More good games that that
Couple decent years more like lol
2024
OTT 17 312 464 3959 18 10 8.5
2025
OTT 11 196 274 2389 14 10 8.7
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 24, 2026, 12:34:59 AMKinda like when we got Zach
It would be so hilarious if Dru takes us to the cup this year and becomes the next Zach-level superstar for the next 5+ seasons. LOL, just like 2019. Other teams' fans would go mental. (I won't put money on it, though!)
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 12:37:29 AMIt would be so hilarious if Dru takes us to the cup this year and becomes the next Zach-level superstar for the next 5+ seasons. LOL, just like 2019. Other teams' fans would go mental. (I won't put money on it, though!)
Mo money mo problems
Nah they will get even more angry when our young stud makes it 15 lol
Bring on another mini dynasty lo
That is pretty funny though but we need a guy in a brown fur coat to make this legit
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 24, 2026, 12:36:58 AMMore good games that that
Couple decent years more like lol
OTT record W/L 10-13-1
Strevie had a better record... and he couldn't throw.
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 12:38:53 AMOTT record W/L 10-13-1
Strevie had a better record... and he couldn't throw.
That record be opposite on most teams
Ottawa can't play lol
Strev would have had minus wins with ott
Ps.I love.Strev and he could throw.kinda sometimes
Quote from: Jesse on June 24, 2026, 12:33:29 AMNah, that makes too much sense.
We were fleeced without any negotiation whatsoever. Because we're too nice.
Name one time we reamed another team on a trade. Now think about all the times we were sitting there breathing in noisily shaking our head at the steep price we paid for someone.
The Zach trade doesn't count. EVERYONE thought his brain was scrambled and he would never last 1 game again in his life.
Other than that, no one ever looks at Mafia trades and says "oh ya, WPG got away with one that time!". But it's fine. I'm not even that much against it. I just think we might do better overall if we were more cut-throat. Certainly might be worth a try?
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 24, 2026, 12:40:43 AMThat record be opposite on most teams
Ottawa can't play lol
Strev would have had minus wins with ott
Well, was it Dru or was it OTT? We'll never know. Ya, we can be 99% sure, but hey, you never know.
On the flipside, we could also don't know if Dru was ever good. Keep in mind he was lighting it up here during our peak dynasty years. Remember Jennings in BC, Franklin in EDM(?), Arbuckle in CGY. All looked like the next Ricky Ray. All fizzled out. We have to accept Dru might be one of those... in fact it seems the most likely. And that might be ok as all we need is a good backup.
P.S. I love Strevie too, and I never cared he "couldn't throw"... but the fact remains.
Overall I like the move. Especially if it's under $200k, or even under $150k. Mafia always likes to have a .500 backup QB in the house. We didn't have that before this trade. He knows the WPG system. He knows the Condell system. He's actually perfect from a slot-right-in standpoint. Heck, he could be #2 on Thursday.
Forget about the future. Dru was traded for the here and now. This doesn't impact Elgersma at all. Just sit him down and explain that to him. They probably already did. Elgersma can go RR and earn his full salary. Perkins has won the SY spot (100%! nay 110%!). If Dru gets 1.5 games this season and lights it up, then we can examine him being a possible heir. It's not outside the realm of possibility.
There is a cost, though. 1RDP means our OL pipeline will get even more bare. And it was already VERY VERY bare. This may lock us into 3 IMP OL for 2-3 seasons! We are also heavily gambling on the 2 down-south DPs ever coming up here. We are basically in OL Hades, as far as CFL rosters go.
In essence we're trading a future gamble at OL for QB certainty today. I'm fine with that. I've been begging for an IMP C for since Couture left. My wish has come true, and probably for the next 3 seasons.
Now let's go out and WIN!
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 12:41:51 AMName one time we reamed another team on a trade. Now think about all the times we were sitting there breathing in noisily shaking our head at the steep price we paid for someone.
The Zach trade doesn't count. EVERYONE thought his brain was scrambled and he would never last 1 game again in his life.
Other than that, no one ever looks at Mafia trades and says "oh ya, WPG got away with one that time!". But it's fine. I'm not even that much against it. I just think we might do better overall if we were more cut-throat. Certainly might be worth a try?
It's been awhile since the Bombers made deals with anyone other than Hamilton.
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 12:46:01 AMWell, was it Dru or was it OTT? We'll never know. Ya, we can be 99% sure, but hey, you never know.
On the flipside, we could also don't know if Dru was ever good. Keep in mind he was lighting it up here during our peak dynasty years. Remember Jennings in BC, Franklin in EDM(?), Arbuckle in CGY. All looked like the next Ricky Ray. All fizzled out. We have to accept Dru might be one of those... in fact it seems the most likely. And that might be ok as all we need is a good backup.
P.S. I love Strevie too, and I never cared he "couldn't throw"... but the fact remains.
90% ott
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 24, 2026, 12:57:47 AMIt's been awhile since the Bombers made deals with anyone other than Hamilton.
It seems like most seasons lately we're making trades
in the draft. Weird ones that leave people shaking their heads. Hey, like this trade!
But yes, other than draft trades, trades are pretty rare in the CFL overall. I think last season's trade deadline saw zero trades.
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 12:33:07 AMOh, I guarantee OTT shopped Dru around. They probably called everyone. Because you want a bidding war.
The thing is, clearly, no other team was willing to give up a 1RDP for him. Heck, we don't even know if another team was willing to give up a 2RDP, though that does seem possible.
We may even find out. Maybe. KW could have a conference and defend his high price by saying there was no other option on the table because of a bidding war. However, OTT could have just been playing us & lying. And like I said, if he thought it was fair, I can't see KW dickering on price.
As for SSK/CGY, ya, possible suitors. I think Dickenson The Greater would be a good fit. But I can't see Dru being popular in SSK and meshing with Mace.
I bet Dru would be happy to go to Sask. to back up Harris, good shot at playoff money, shorter time to succession and if he can pick up on TH's quick passing game, he'll find success and stay healthy for longer than he would imitating Zach. I doubt Mace has much to do with the QB room as long as it's working well.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 24, 2026, 12:57:47 AMIt's been awhile since the Bombers made deals with anyone other than Hamilton.
CFL trades just don't happen all that often.
Excited to see this. I was one of the few who wanted to keep Dru Brown over Collaros before he left for Ottawa. Brown has been out with injuries and concussions while he was a Redblack. Every one reacts differently to hits on the noggin, but he did seem to slow down at a certain point. You wonder if he is processing things as quickly as when he was in Winnipeg the last time. Condell should know. So you have to see this trade as a positive and that the club believes he will be able to step in and produce this year.
Quote from: Jesse on June 23, 2026, 10:47:51 PMThat probably isn't the main reason he's here. We don't have a back-up plan and the FA QBs were garbage so we kinda had to put Elgersma in that role which he completely isn't ready for.
Based on what is Elgersma not ready? He can make all the throws, read a 12 man defense, is accurate.
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 12:41:51 AMName one time we reamed another team on a trade. Now think about all the times we were sitting there breathing in noisily shaking our head at the steep price we paid for someone.
The Zach trade doesn't count. EVERYONE thought his brain was scrambled and he would never last 1 game again in his life.
Other than that, no one ever looks at Mafia trades and says "oh ya, WPG got away with one that time!". But it's fine. I'm not even that much against it. I just think we might do better overall if we were more cut-throat. Certainly might be worth a try?
We got Matt Nichols for a conditional 7th round pick
I suggested earlier that Brown would get traded to dump SMS possibly and to avoid being bumped to back up. That said I don't know I thought he'd be traded to the Bombers.
More than likely he ends up on the reserve list this week and maybe for a few more weeks. Part of the trade is conditional but would we be surprised if his deal is being re-negotiated and that we were able to speak with him prior to the trade.
Overall I think this is a positive move in both short and long term. Any injury to Collaros and we'd have rookies becoming our # 1 QB.
So. Welcome back Dru.
Quote from: CrazyCanuck89 on June 24, 2026, 01:21:39 AMBased on what is Elgersma not ready? He can make all the throws, read a 12 man defense, is accurate.
Based on being a rookie and not rushing a young guy in his first professional season.
It's not a shot against the kid, but in an ideal world you have a vet back-up and develop your prospect. This gives us that opportunity.
Quote from: CrazyCanuck89 on June 24, 2026, 01:21:39 AMBased on what is Elgersma not ready? He can make all the throws, read a 12 man defense, is accurate.
Not experienced CFL player. He could be great or take significant time to be ready.
Quote from: bunker on June 24, 2026, 01:24:55 AMWe got Matt Nichols for a conditional 7th round pick
Fair cop. Good example. Except kind of proves the point because that was, I think, 2015 -- a long time ago.
Now THAT'S the kind of trade we should have been making for Dru! Holy smokes. KW should get out the ol' photo album and see how he used to ream other teams in trades!
Now you're making me think we could have gotten Dru for just a 3RDP. Stop depressing me! ;)
Here's a theory for you: Dinwiddie wants Kelly and knows somehow he'll get him. Probably conspiring with him on the down-low ever since leaving for OTT. No idea how they'll finagle it without Kelly sabotaging the season.
Dinwiddie & Kelly are a match made in heaven (or.. the other place).
MBT is to put lipstick on this throwaway "rebuild" year. Feel sorry for the OTT STHs that bother to show up every other week. On the bright side, all of us who said Maier won't win anything were just proven right. Perennial mediocre backup, that's what he's good for (and I mean that sincerely -- he's not completely useless).
The next question will be does Maier remain in OTT after this all shakes out or is he back to SSK or wherever. OTT still needs a backup, and I don't think MBT will be it in 2027.
I like the trade as it help us this season.
I wasn't a fan of losing Dru, but had moved on.
I know Ottawa wasn't a good team, or well coached, and Dru might not have been able to show his true abilities there, but I'm not sure he is the "heir apparent" still.
I like what our QB room has been so far this year. I was quite happy to go forward with the group.
I'm not sure what this does to that dynamic. Are we relegating one to the PR (probably get scooped)? Does one accept a stint on the IR? Do we release one?
Decisions will made, I guess we will find out if they were correct.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 24, 2026, 02:51:12 AMI'm not sure what this does to that dynamic. Are we relegating one to the PR (probably get scooped)? Does one accept a stint on the IR? Do we release one?
Elgersma can sit on RR: still practice, develop, get paid. PR would be fine too, as the mythical dreaded "scoop" never happens in real life. But since we have used 0 or 1 RR spot each week (like many teams!), it's sitting right there screaming to be utilized.
Quote from: CrazyCanuck89 on June 24, 2026, 01:21:39 AMBased on what is Elgersma not ready? He can make all the throws, read a 12 man defense, is accurate.
Based on PS he is not ready like 90% of other QBs with his experience
whats interesting as well. Brown signed a 321000 contract (388 with playtime incentives)
but 150000 of that was in bonus money... so we will only be on the hook for 171000 less two game so 133-140k. Not bad for a qb of his caliber
Quote from: Pete on June 24, 2026, 03:32:02 AMwhats interesting as well. Brown signed a 321000 contract (388 with playtime incentives)
but 150000 of that was in bonus money... so we will only be on the hook for 171000 less two game so 133-140k. Not bad for a qb of his caliber
Jesse posted the numbers at the bottom of page 3 of this thread if you wish to look.
Quote from: Pete on June 24, 2026, 03:32:02 AMwhats interesting as well. Brown signed a 321000 contract (388 with playtime incentives)
but 150000 of that was in bonus money... so we will only be on the hook for 171000 less two game so 133-140k. Not bad for a qb of his caliber
Good salary for this season, bad for next unless Zach retires or accepts a drastic chop. A QB room of Brown, Elgersma and Perkins could be decent going forward with the hope Elgersma someday becomes an elite QB.
Brown left Winnipeg to be a starting QB. He might be okay backing Zach up this season, but next year mite be a different story. Maybe the Bombers know ZC8 is playing his last season and are just being proactive?
I wouldn't read anything at all into this move beyond this season. However, if Zach quits for 2027, it puts our foot in the door to avoid being left without a chair when the music stops.
Dru's not ideal as starter, but he's probably better than year 1 through 2 Elgersma. And it none of this precludes us making a huge FA splash going after a top-5 QB.
Brown had some strong games with Winnipeg and with Ottawa. Enough that he looked like starter material. He had a tough year injury-wise in Ottawa, but you would've thought Ottawa would stick with him as a starter again this year. They certainly don't have anybody better. A bit of a head scratcher how it all kind of went downhill for him in Ottawa. I don't think it was all Dinwiddie either. Perhaps the players and/or the organization had an issue with his leadership. I don't know, but it had to be something we didn't see from the outside.
Whatever. Brown does add lot of needed depth at the most important position. No doubt about that. Green or not though, Elgersma and Perkins are for sure going to be disappointed and maybe feel a little betrayed as well. Especially Elgersma. It did look like the Bombers were committed to going in his direction in the not to distant future. That must have played a significant role in him signing here. This move now casts doubt on that. Them trading for a vet qb was not on his radar screen. Obviously, he has all the tools to be a very successful CFL quarterback. Sometimes an organization just has to stick with a plan when it comes to finding it's next franchise quarterback. Was this maybe the time to do that? I'm not saying they shouldn't have done this, but yeah maybe I'm not as silly giddy as some others, because I'm a little concerned about how this move might upset the harmony of the team.
Considering all that, it does appear to be a good trade for the Bombers, for this year anyway. But a bold and maybe risky one for the future as well. We'll see how it all unfolds.
Interesting dynamic in this chat.
I'm a fan of the move. It's been years since we've had actual succession planning at QB, and given that in the first two games of the season I'd say Zach has lost a bit distance on the ball (not saying he can't throw, but the long ball is deteriorating), the time to setup for the future is now. Well mentored Brown/Elgersma/Perkins has the potential to be really, really good.
The first thing that came to mind with this was the Argos with Ray/Collaros/Harris. That turned out pretty well, be nice if we could do similar.
For sub 200K, fantastic. The MBT thing is curious though.
For those that didn't watch every game, nor read my commentary on OTT game thread :
There was a strange point in the OTT game where it was hopeless and dinwiddie pulled maier. So dru was coming on, right? He was charted as #2.
Nope, dinwiddie put in some noname rookie.
That could be the moment it all fell apart. Dru might have reacted poorly. He looked pretty nonplussed on the sidelines. Tsn made sure to get some good shots of him being dissed.
Maybe dru asked for his release. Or maybe this was dinwiddie setting dru up to be happy with being traded into an environment where he's guaranteed to be just a backup this year. What transpired with this trade may have been put in motion at that moment.
Quote from: kkc60 on June 23, 2026, 11:02:25 PMunnecessary and bad trade. succession plan, sure. but a 1st? with few quality canadians already? on a one year deal?? man I wish I had KW ego. Although I didn't realize at first the second is conditional. I guess we will see but at first glance, this pick looks closer to 2nd overall than 9th
Ottawa will be last this season and have the 10th pick (1st of round 2). The Bombers get that pick but lose their first (which could be anywhere from say 9th - 5th). Not that big of a deal dropping a few spots.
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 02:55:42 AMElgersma can sit on RR: still practice, develop, get paid. PR would be fine too, as the mythical dreaded "scoop" never happens in real life. But since we have used 0 or 1 RR spot each week (like many teams!), it's sitting right there screaming to be utilized.
I think Brown will go to the RR for a couple of weeks until he learns the playbook. Then Elgersma will be switched out.
Teams must have had some sort of budget to add 2 players to the RR but few seem to be using it yet. That " budget " will come into play now. Also we haven't lost many man days on the 1 game IR due to using the 6 game IR. That may change if some are pulled off early but that's all TBD.
So we've been saving a few SMS $$ so far. I don't see the SMS hit by adding Brown to be an issue.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 24, 2026, 01:27:14 AMNot experienced CFL player. He could be great or take significant time to be ready.
Who cares? Other teams have gone with rookie backups in the past.
Quote from: Pigskin on June 24, 2026, 04:28:49 AMBrown left Winnipeg to be a starting QB. He might be okay backing Zach up this season, but next year mite be a different story. Maybe the Bombers know ZC8 is playing his last season and are just being proactive?
This was my thinking when I saw the trade last night. I have to imagine Brown factors in to a succession plan of sorts, and I wonder if Collaros intends to call it a career after this season.
Time will tell what happens, but the addition of Brown helps the QB situation going forward, IMO.
Quote from: CrazyCanuck89 on June 24, 2026, 01:06:43 PMWho cares? Other teams have gone with rookie backups in the past.
That doesn't mean it's the right play, though. Letting Elgersma develop without undue pressure should help him.
Quote from: jdrattops on June 24, 2026, 12:43:28 PMOttawa will be last this season and have the 10th pick (1st of round 2). The Bombers get that pick but lose their first (which could be anywhere from say 9th - 5th). Not that big of a deal dropping a few spots.
We get back our second round pick that we traded them at the draft. So we may be picking towards the middle, end of the second round next year depending on how we do. It's not the end of the world but different than the above.
Quote from: jdrattops on June 24, 2026, 12:43:28 PMOttawa will be last this season and have the 10th pick (1st of round 2). The Bombers get that pick but lose their first (which could be anywhere from say 9th - 5th). Not that big of a deal dropping a few spots.
Bu
Quote from: jdrattops on June 24, 2026, 12:43:28 PMOttawa will be last this season and have the 10th pick (1st of round 2). The Bombers get that pick but lose their first (which could be anywhere from say 9th - 5th). Not that big of a deal dropping a few spots.
I hope it's anywhere from 5th-9th. But looking at the quality of the league (really outside of Ottawa and
maybe BC) The pick could be 3 or 4. Again, we won't know. It's just a risk. As well, the 2nd we got back is our own in the Daniels trade-up, not Ottawa's. So really the better quality the second round pick is, the worse the trade is.
But again, I'm just not a big fan of dealing first-round picks when you don't know where they will land (and with no conditions)
Quote from: Tecno on June 24, 2026, 10:01:50 AMFor those that didn't watch every game, nor read my commentary on OTT game thread :
There was a strange point in the OTT game where it was hopeless and dinwiddie pulled maier. So dru was coming on, right? He was charted as #2.
Nope, dinwiddie put in some noname rookie.
That could be the moment it all fell apart. Dru might have reacted poorly. He looked pretty nonplussed on the sidelines. Tsn made sure to get some good shots of him being dissed.
Maybe dru asked for his release. Or maybe this was dinwiddie setting dru up to be happy with being traded into an environment where he's guaranteed to be just a backup this year. What transpired with this trade may have been put in motion at that moment.
I thought that was odd also. Suggests Dru was not in Ottawa's future plans at that point. Maybe trade talks were already ongoing and Ottawa didn't want a Brown injury ruining it all.
Regarding Elgersma, let him earn the starting job over time by competing for it and showing he's better than the veterans in front of him. If he's as good as everyone thinks, he'll get slotted into the #2 slot, possibly as early as next year. Once that happens he'll almost certainly get a chance to play and show what he's got due to the high likelihood of the starting QB spending some time out with injury. And he'll be more likely to have success with a year of learning the position under his belt. The most intriguing player in town is always the untested back up QB with potential. Most, unfortunately, turn out to be disappointments. TE may be different, but if he really is that good, he'll get his chance.
Thoughts:
Maybe Condell wanted Brown. they worked together in Ottawa
Maybe Bombers have wanted this trade since Dinwiddie was hired and came out luke warm on Brown as starter
Perkins is odd man out. 3rd down is easiest to replace by far.
The concussions are not good but you know who else had issues? Collaros, Harris. 3 Grey Cups there.
Quote from: bunker on June 24, 2026, 02:05:11 PMI thought that was odd also. Suggests Dru was not in Ottawa's future plans at that point. Maybe trade talks were already ongoing and Ottawa didn't want a Brown injury ruining it all.
Dinwiddie also cut QB Max Duggan and added Nicholas Vattiato shortly after to take his place, so it looks like he's in the process of a total reorganization. I'm not sure the Ottawa fans can stomach a rebuild, but that's what they're getting.
Quote from: bomb squad on June 24, 2026, 06:34:05 AMBrown had some strong games with Winnipeg and with Ottawa. Enough that he looked like starter material. He had a tough year injury-wise in Ottawa, but you would've thought Ottawa would stick with him as a starter again this year. They certainly don't have anybody better. A bit of a head scratcher how it all kind of went downhill for him in Ottawa. I don't think it was all Dinwiddie either. Perhaps the players and/or the organization had an issue with his leadership. I don't know, but it had to be something we didn't see from the outside.
Whatever. Brown does add lot of needed depth at the most important position. No doubt about that. Green or not though, Elgersma and Perkins are for sure going to be disappointed and maybe feel a little betrayed as well. Especially Elgersma. It did look like the Bombers were committed to going in his direction in the not to distant future. That must have played a significant role in him signing here. This move now casts doubt on that. Them trading for a vet qb was not on his radar screen. Obviously, he has all the tools to be a very successful CFL quarterback. Sometimes an organization just has to stick with a plan when it comes to finding it's next franchise quarterback. Was this maybe the time to do that? I'm not saying they shouldn't have done this, but yeah maybe I'm not as silly giddy as some others, because I'm a little concerned about how this move might upset the harmony of the team.
Considering all that, it does appear to be a good trade for the Bombers, for this year anyway. But a bold and maybe risky one for the future as well. We'll see how it all unfolds.
Well...anyone think Zach is capable of winning a GC this season? Will he get better next season? If not what's the point of sticking with him for another year as his skills deteriorate?
As for Elgersma, at some point in the next 2-3 seasons he has to demonstrate he's a better option than Dru Brown if he wants the starting QB job, hopefully O'Shea comprehends the days of Zach will soon be over and and provides him with the opportunity to play, which is questionable he would unless injury intervenes. Elgersma either accepts the challenge with patience or he goes back to the NFL to stand in line forever or discovers the joy of finding a job in the real world, he has little choice.
I'm happy to have Brown as our #2 QB, but let's not make him into something he isn't. He was the worst starting QB in the league last year and lost his job to Jake Maier this year. He's like a lot of backups who, when they get their chance, don't live up to the hype.
Quote from: TBURGESS on June 24, 2026, 03:12:22 PMI'm happy to have Brown as our #2 QB, but let's not make him into something he isn't. He was the worst starting QB in the league last year and lost his job to Jake Maier this year. He's like a lot of backups who, when they get their chance, don't live up to the hype.
some truth to the above - he has played enough games to show what he is - injuries have impacted him so he gets a bit of a pause but this chance is basically it for him. He is the just good enough QB to make you believe but not good enough to win consistently...there have been 00's before him and 00's to some.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 24, 2026, 02:52:01 PMWell...anyone think Zach is capable of winning a GC this season? Will he get better next season? If not what's the point of sticking with him for another year as his skills deteriorate?
As for Elgersma, at some point in the next 2-3 seasons he has to demonstrate he's a better option than Dru Brown if he wants the starting QB job, hopefully O'Shea comprehends the days of Zach will soon be over and and provides him with the opportunity to play, which is questionable he would unless injury intervenes. Elgersma either accepts the challenge with patience or he goes back to the NFL to stand in line forever or discovers the joy of finding a job in the real world, he has little choice.
30 to 50% chance Zach can win a cup this year imo. That goes down slightly next year. He still is very good imo. Stick with him until option 2 is > option 1. Stick with him so we have time to pass the torch.
Quote from: TBURGESS on June 24, 2026, 03:12:22 PMI'm happy to have Brown as our #2 QB, but let's not make him into something he isn't. He was the worst starting QB in the league last year and lost his job to Jake Maier this year. He's like a lot of backups who, when they get their chance, don't live up to the hype.
The Redblacks were a dumpster fire last season and they weren't much better in 2024. Despite that, Brown still posted respectable numbers during his time there: 28 GP, 508 completions against 738 attempts (68.8%), 6348 yards, 32 TDs, 20 INTs - good for a 98.45 QB rating (better than Collaros' 96.18 QBR through 31 games in 2024 and 2025).
I don't think your assessment of Brown is fair or reasonable. His struggles with the RedBlacks didn't exist in a vacuum as evidenced by the team's abysmal record during his time there.
And I guess Maier "stole his job," but that seems more like a shortsighted decision by Dinwiddie. Maier's been bad enough so far that Bethel-Thompson had to be airlifted in, anyway. The RedBlacks are not a good team right now.
Quote from: TBURGESS on June 24, 2026, 03:12:22 PMI'm happy to have Brown as our #2 QB, but let's not make him into something he isn't. He was the worst starting QB in the league last year and lost his job to Jake Maier this year. He's like a lot of backups who, when they get their chance, don't live up to the hype.
He may have been "the worst" QB in the league, but was his team/coaching better than anyone in the league?
This is an enigma for me, Perkins vs. Brown. Elgersma is here to stay, QB3 until he moves up. But QB2... Perkins has more "pedigree" but far less 3 down experience. Does he accept a PR spot? We have no idea Perkins upside. He's done all that he has been asked to. Will that continue?
I'm not unhappy with the QB room of Zach, Dru and Taylor. Perkins probably came here thinking he could fight for Zach's job. If released, he would probably get picked up elsewhere and be able to fight for a spot, but with no where near the chance of getting a starters job that would have been ahead of him when he originally signed here. Having Taylor inserted into the room, and now Dru, his prospects have unfortunately really dropped.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 24, 2026, 05:09:15 PMHe may have been "the worst" QB in the league, but was his team/coaching better than anyone in the league?
This is an enigma for me, Perkins vs. Brown. Elgersma is here to stay, QB3 until he moves up. But QB2... Perkins has more "pedigree" but far less 3 down experience. Does he accept a PR spot? We have no idea Perkins upside. He's done all that he has been asked to. Will that continue?
I'm not unhappy with the QB room of Zach, Dru and Taylor. Perkins probably came here thinking he could fight for Zach's job. If released, he would probably get picked up elsewhere and be able to fight for a spot, but with no where near the chance of getting a starters job that would have been ahead of him when he originally signed here. Having Taylor inserted into the room, and now Dru, his prospects have unfortunately really dropped.
It's not unusual for a team to carry 4 QB's Bombers did it last season, it's just a matter of roster and budget management, no reason to cut Perkins as he's been excellent as the SY QB.
Brown trade solves problems for Bombers and Redblacks (https://www.tsn.ca/cfl/article/brown-trade-solves-problems-for-bombers-and-redblacks/)
An informative read by Naylor on the trade.
And it seems to have worked out for both teams.
Turns out Brown asked for his release after Dinwiddie chose Maier as the starter.
https://3downnation.com/2026/06/24/ryan-dinwiddie-dru-brown-became-little-bit-of-a-distraction-for-ottawa-redblacks/ (https://3downnation.com/2026/06/24/ryan-dinwiddie-dru-brown-became-little-bit-of-a-distraction-for-ottawa-redblacks/)
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 24, 2026, 02:52:01 PMWell...anyone think Zach is capable of winning a GC this season? Will he get better next season? If not what's the point of sticking with him for another year as his skills deteriorate?
I do. If T.Harris, Arbuckle, and Cody can win it, then Zach more than can.
Zach pros:
- making great reads
- great zone hole dropper
- nice touch / easily catchable
- not throwing bad INTs (yet?)
Zach cons:
- slow wind-up
- slow "no zip" balls
- low escapability
- gets injured
- doesn't "look off" DBs
- ~50Y effective range
The one that's killing us currently is the "no zip" problem. It gives every DB/LB time to get to the target, and doubly especially seeing as how most of our game is the sit-down game, not the catch-in-stride game.
Can we work around the no-zip problem? Is there solutions? Throw earlier? Get some wizard trainer to fix it? T.Harris doesn't have much zip either, and SSK has made it work -- but they do a lot more in-stride and timing passes. Maybe that's the answer...
Quote from: Waffler on June 24, 2026, 02:27:24 PMPerkins is odd man out. 3rd down is easiest to replace by far.
Disagree. Perkins is good sneak body type and a ball of beef. And he's 100% and seems dedicated. You don't mess with what's working.
Elgersma was never here to be groomed as SY. He's being groomed as future Rourke. Sure, if he could do SY that would be gravy. But it's not his purpose. His job in the 1st 3 games was to come in and take over if Zach gets hurt. Period.
Now we have Dru who is totally the better choice to have that exact job description. And so Dru gets the #2 AR spot. Perkins stays at SY. And Elgersma gets to be the heir apparent putting in his 2-3 seasons of normal CFL dev...
on the RR or PR.
I'll eat a whole Walby burger in one sitting if they yank Perkins from SY and put in Elgersma.
Quote from: CrazyCanuck89 on June 24, 2026, 01:06:43 PMWho cares? Other teams have gone with rookie backups in the past.
And what's their combined record? Who's the last year-1 rookie to come for injury replacement in and go above .500? I think it's Strev -- who came in week 1 year 1! (Yowsers)
Remember, even Alexander had years of dev before playing. The only other one I can think of is Kelly who stepped in for his first game in the infamous GC and won himself a starting spot. And that was after a full year of dev and major high-expectations dev time down south.
We all know if Perkins or Elgersma had to start tomorrow the odds of it going Really Badly(TM) is near 100%. Not their fault, per se, it's just par for the course at that position.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 24, 2026, 12:54:14 PMTeams must have had some sort of budget to add 2 players to the RR but few seem to be using it yet. That " budget " will come into play now.
I don't get that impression. The fact half the teams are using 0 or 1 RR spot only means that it's just added SMS baggage that draws away from the money you can actually put on the field.
If there was a separate league-mandated RR "budget" or "minimum" we probably would have heard about it.
Now, I think the league should mandate both RR spots be filled. Otherwise, what's the point?? I had thought when I first heard about it that the RR was going to be mandated to be full -- because otherwise it's just a glorified 1GIR. League could easily say: 2 RR spots must be filled and
minimum spend for each spot is ELC. After all, we all do want the CFL to have bigger rosters.
Now, because 1GIR's do tend to be filled more towards mid/late season, maybe we'll finally see them getting used that way.
Maybe someone can do a quick survey of the RR usage to see if it's mostly being used right now for nicked guys (in place of 1G) or if it's truly for guys who are just that 1 step away from making the AR.
Quote from: Tecno on June 25, 2026, 03:07:50 AMI don't get that impression. The fact half the teams are using 0 or 1 RR spot only means that it's just added SMS baggage that draws away from the money you can actually put on the field.
If there was a separate league-mandated RR "budget" or "minimum" we probably would have heard about it.
Now, I think the league should mandate both RR spots be filled. Otherwise, what's the point?? I had thought when I first heard about it that the RR was going to be mandated to be full -- because otherwise it's just a glorified 1GIR. League could easily say: 2 RR spots must be filled and minimum spend for each spot is ELC. After all, we all do want the CFL to have bigger rosters.
Now, because 1GIR's do tend to be filled more towards mid/late season, maybe we'll finally see them getting used that way.
Why there isn't a mandate to fill the RR is strange to say the least.
Maybe someone can do a quick survey of the RR usage to see if it's mostly being used right now for nicked guys (in place of 1G) or if it's truly for guys who are just that 1 step away from making the AR.
You can't potentially add 2 more players to the roster ( full pay ) without some accommodation in the budget planning.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 25, 2026, 03:12:47 AMYou can't potentially add 2 more players to the roster ( full pay ) without some accommodation in the budget planning.
Uh, they've upped SMS by like $600k over the last 2-ish seasons (total)... there's your accommodation.
Quote from: Tecno on June 25, 2026, 03:36:20 AMUh, they've upped SMS by like $600k over the last 2-ish seasons (total)... there's your accommodation.
Fffacts of life, good for the league that they did
I'll be surprised If Dinwiddie can have success with Maier...
But I thought Bo was finished when he went to Hamilton.
Difference is Bo was good, and declined, Maier has not been a successful qb.
Interesting to follow.
Quote from: Tecno on June 25, 2026, 03:36:20 AMUh, they've upped SMS by like $600k over the last 2-ish seasons (total)... there's your accommodation.
Yes but you have to plan the spend against the SMS whether it goes up or not. If they change the possible number of players on the roster that has to be taken into account.
The confusing part is why doesn't the reserve not have some sort of mandatory aspect? At some point I expect teams to start adding players to the reserve.
In the case of the Bombers we just moved Vanterpool to the reserve. It's almost certain that we'll see a QB parked on the reserve by next week.
You can't possibly think that teams won't have some sort of plan on how they will use that reserve.
It's no different than having a budget expectation for 1 game IR issues. Moving everyone to 6 game IR doesn't change that concept. Some of the players will be moved off 6 game IR early and costs will be charged against the SMS.
It appears than short of Kelly, Rourke and Davis, Dinwiddie prefers a contol, game manager type of qb. Brown isn't that he fits more in The gunslinger mode. mode which is more suited to Condell
I was trying to find out what Maier's winnig percentage was off the hop, I kinda remembered he went something like 10 wins without a loss or some such stat, but I can't find that...
But his Wiki page showed something I didn't know....
"Calgary Stampeders
Dan Hawkins, Maier's head coach at UC Davis, mentioned to Maier that he could potentially flourish in the Canadian Football League. Following Maier's 2017 season at UC Davis, Hawkins reached out to Ryan Dinwiddie,[3] who had played quarterback for Hawkins at Boise State University from 2001 to 2003, and had been on Hawkins' coaching staff with the Montreal Alouettes in 2013.[4] Hawkins told Dinwiddie, who was coaching quarterbacks with the Calgary Stampeders at the time, "you'd better put this kid on your [negotiation] list cause he's legit. He's got the 'it' factor. He has what I call the 'rage to master.'"[3] The Stampeders added Maier to their negotiation list in 2018.[3]
On May 5, 2020, after completing his college career, Maier signed with the Calgary Stampeders.[5] However, he did not play that year due to the cancellation of the 2020 CFL season."
So there's the link, plain as day.
As for Dru coming to WPG, sounds like Zach had a lot to do with it, he said Dru is his best friend.
One of Elgersma or Perkins ends up with the short stick, one of them has some trade value. I'm not saying either are going to be starters in this league tomorrow, but I wouldn't be surprised if either gets there.
Both are under contract next year at least, and I have no doubt that this will be Zach's last year on the field (might take a move upstairs). Dru, Taylor, Bryce is not a bad QB room for 2027.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 25, 2026, 02:24:05 PMI was trying to find out what Maier's winnig percentage was off the hop, I kinda remembered he went something like 10 wins without a loss or some such stat, but I can't find that...
But his Wiki page showed something I didn't know....
"Calgary Stampeders
Dan Hawkins, Maier's head coach at UC Davis, mentioned to Maier that he could potentially flourish in the Canadian Football League. Following Maier's 2017 season at UC Davis, Hawkins reached out to Ryan Dinwiddie,[3] who had played quarterback for Hawkins at Boise State University from 2001 to 2003, and had been on Hawkins' coaching staff with the Montreal Alouettes in 2013.[4] Hawkins told Dinwiddie, who was coaching quarterbacks with the Calgary Stampeders at the time, "you'd better put this kid on your [negotiation] list cause he's legit. He's got the 'it' factor. He has what I call the 'rage to master.'"[3] The Stampeders added Maier to their negotiation list in 2018.[3]
On May 5, 2020, after completing his college career, Maier signed with the Calgary Stampeders.[5] However, he did not play that year due to the cancellation of the 2020 CFL season."
So there's the link, plain as day.
As for Dru coming to WPG, sounds like Zach had a lot to do with it, he said Dru is his best friend.
One of Elgersma or Perkins ends up with the short stick, one of them has some trade value. I'm not saying either are going to be starters in this league tomorrow, but I wouldn't be surprised if either gets there.
Both are under contract next year at least, and I have no doubt that this will be Zach's last year on the field (might take a move upstairs). Dru, Taylor, Bryce is not a bad QB room for 2027.
I think that was Arbuckle in Calgary, he set high expectations.
Quote from: Pete on June 25, 2026, 02:02:45 PMIt appears than short of Kelly, Rourke and Davis, Dinwiddie prefers a contol, game manager type of qb. Brown isn't that he fits more in The gunslinger mode. mode which is more suited to Condell
Watched a Dinwiddie interview this morning, he talked about the ability to move the ball down field decisively, he thinks MBT still has one of the strongest arms in the league.
Quote from: Pete on June 25, 2026, 02:02:45 PMIt appears than short of Kelly, Rourke and Davis, Dinwiddie prefers a contol, game manager type of qb. Brown isn't that he fits more in The gunslinger mode. mode which is more suited to Condell
Very good point
give me bombs and runs for the next decade and I'm happy
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 25, 2026, 04:22:17 PMI think that was Arbuckle in Calgary, he set high expectations.
Ya. Maier never lit anything up. And never looked good anywhere. He's like early-years Cody, had Cody never "got better". Maier is more like Dom Davis: he won a few here and there, and looked like he could maybe have a future. But then splat.
Quote from: Pete on June 25, 2026, 02:02:45 PMIt appears than short of Kelly, Rourke and Davis, Dinwiddie prefers a contol, game manager type of qb. Brown isn't that he fits more in The gunslinger mode. mode which is more suited to Condell
I don't know... Dinwiddie would give his left nut to get Kelly right now. I think he's working on it for '27 or '28. And they don't come more gunslinger than Kelly! He's literally the most slingingest guy out there -- throws into everything with wild abandon. He doesn't give a poop about INTs as long as he also gets TDs. And he's the #1 disciple of Dinwiddie!
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 25, 2026, 01:24:02 PMYou can't possibly think that teams won't have some sort of plan on how they will use that reserve.
Wasn't the RR foisted on teams pretty late in FA? It may be like the '25 $400k fiasco: teams didn't have enough time to factor it in properly.
I think RR was purely reactionary to combat the fake 1GIR overusage by everyone in '25.
Quote from: Tecno on June 26, 2026, 07:34:49 AMYa. Maier never lit anything up. And never looked good anywhere. He's like early-years Cody, had Cody never "got better". Maier is more like Dom Davis: he won a few here and there, and looked like he could maybe have a future. But then splat.
If memory serves, Maier looked good enough to move on from Mitchell...
Quote from: Tecno on June 26, 2026, 07:37:57 AMWasn't the RR foisted on teams pretty late in FA? It may be like the '25 $400k fiasco: teams didn't have enough time to factor it in properly.
I think RR was purely reactionary to combat the fake 1GIR overusage by everyone in '25.
Ya maybe, I'm not sure. It's not the smartest change in roster size or varied designations. We can't even tell if it's used until after the game. Clarification would be nice.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 26, 2026, 05:22:15 PMIf memory serves, Maier looked good enough to move on from Mitchell...
The Stamps were faltering at the time and it looked like Mitchell was done, plus he was still earning big bucks.
OK, where has the debate settled on the QB room?
QB1 - ZC8, of course
QB2 - DB3
QB3 - BP9 (for short yardage)
RR - TE13
Does that sound right? Sending TE13 to the PR null and voids his contract, which means we lose all control on him going forward, so he has to either be RR or IR. And its not like he's breaking the bank.
Makes the transition to next year and ZC8 retiring easier for all involved, he can feel good about leaving the Bombers in the hands of his best friend, BP9 and TE13 are under contract at reasonable rates. Dru can then be signed to low side of starting salary, with incentives.
If ZC8 wants to play one more year, DB3 could be signed to a similar deal he has now, with a bump for 2028 to starters pay, and we do another year with 4 QBs.
Does that sound about right?
Or, does TE13 have trade value?
Quote from: theaardvark on June 26, 2026, 05:22:15 PMIf memory serves, Maier looked good enough to move on from Mitchell...
No he didn't, wasnt that Arbuckle you're thinking of?? Maier was recently run out of Calgary to a backup role in Sask, now starters role with the Deadblacks and we get Brown because of that. We should send Dinwiddie a thank you card, signed by 30,000 fans!!!
Maier never looked great. Bo was sooo bad, worse than brohm, throwing it straight to the other team or the dirt. It's one of the few times I felt uncomfortable watching a player get so pathetic.
Maier was there, and options were limited. No one knew if Maier would improve. He might have. It was a gamble. Huff and Dickenson lost.
I think the unforgivable aspect is giving Maier more than one year. Because by then they knew what they had.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 26, 2026, 06:41:36 PMOr, does TE13 have trade value?
Crazy talk. Until we find out we have a clinker, elgersma's the heir apparent. Though it might take 1 to 3 seasons of dev.
Dru is here to help us survive if Zach gets hurt. Right now. Who knows what the idea is for next season. But if Zach retires and we can't get a superstar in fa then dru becomes a decent number 1.
I think ideally we keep the same lineup, all 4, for 2027. Don't know dru's contact situation though, and he left because he didn't want to backup. Maybe we can tell him sweet lies about being number 1...
Then when the time comes if elgersma is Rourke he becomes number 1. If not, dru takes it over and we wait on elgersma or go to fa.
Either way I think we're in a good qb position for the next 2 to 3 seasons.
Quote from: Tecno on Today at 06:38:37 AMCrazy talk. Until we find out we have a clinker, elgersma's the heir apparent. Though it might take 1 to 3 seasons of dev.
Dru is here to help us survive if Zach gets hurt. Right now. Who knows what the idea is for next season. But if Zach retires and we can't get a superstar in fa then dru becomes a decent number 1.
I think ideally we keep the same lineup, all 4, for 2027. Don't know dru's contact situation though, and he left because he didn't want to backup. Maybe we can tell him sweet lies about being number 1...
Then when the time comes if elgersma is Rourke he becomes number 1. If not, dru takes it over and we wait on elgersma or go to fa.
Either way I think we're in a good qb position for the next 2 to 3 seasons.
Dru is signed through this year, Byrce and Taylor through at least 2027 barring NFL looks.
We'd have to sign Dru to keep the QB room the same. Unless another team is desperate, if Zach wants to play in 27, I think he will bring Dru back into the room with the anticipation of Dru taking over in 28.
Now, if either Perkins or Elgersma makes some amazing strides forward, they could displace Dru. I don't think we end up with DB3, BP9 and TE13 as a QB room in 29, though...
Quote from: theaardvark on Today at 02:29:55 PMDru is signed through this year, Byrce and Taylor through at least 2027 barring NFL looks.
We'd have to sign Dru to keep the QB room the same. Unless another team is desperate, if Zach wants to play in 27, I think he will bring Dru back into the room with the anticipation of Dru taking over in 28.
Now, if either Perkins or Elgersma makes some amazing strides forward, they could displace Dru. I don't think we end up with DB3, BP9 and TE13 as a QB room in 29, though...
How could Elgersma make any progress as fourth string QB? He will never see the field if that is his status. Bombers are smarter than that. Condell has been around the CFL a long time. Hopefully he gets to call the shots in terms of QB hierarchy and not MOS.
The ONLY thing that makes sense is Perkins as odd man out. I see Perkins as having no chance of ever starting. He is clearly #3 in practices. No one is going to pick him up. When we have an injury then he comes back. If we play games with Elgersma we will lose him and he is never coming back.
Do I like Perkins getting extra yards on the sneak? Yes. I am also ok just getting the first down and extending the drive which Elgersma could do. Or get creative by using someone else?
The short yardage QB is its own position. Neither Brown or Elgersma is fighting for that position and it doesn't benefit either more or less by being in that role.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 26, 2026, 06:41:36 PMOK, where has the debate settled on the QB room?
QB1 - ZC8, of course
QB2 - DB3
QB3 - BP9 (for short yardage)
RR - TE13
Does that sound right? Sending TE13 to the PR null and voids his contract, which means we lose all control on him going forward, so he has to either be RR or IR. And its not like he's breaking the bank.
Makes the transition to next year and ZC8 retiring easier for all involved, he can feel good about leaving the Bombers in the hands of his best friend, BP9 and TE13 are under contract at reasonable rates. Dru can then be signed to low side of starting salary, with incentives.
If ZC8 wants to play one more year, DB3 could be signed to a similar deal he has now, with a bump for 2028 to starters pay, and we do another year with 4 QBs.
Does that sound about right?
Or, does TE13 have trade value?
I think that's about right. I don't believe we will trade Elgersma. It may depend on whether we can re-negotiate / extend Brown. His contract details / length are a question at the moment. Whether Collaros has made any determination about retiring after this season and his contract length.
Putting Elgersma on RR seems a no brainer. Not a huge SMS hit and he gets to continue to develop and be assessed. Not many rookie QB's are ready year 1.