Blue Bombers roster - 2025-2026

gobombersgo · November 05, 2025, 09:26:33 PM

Current Roster
Zach Collaros -8 QB A re-signed May 23 2025 2026 (Contract length) $600,000 (salary)
Terry Wilson -3 QB A signed Nov 28 2023 2026
Chris Streveler -17 QB A extended Feb 8 2025
Chase Artopoeus -12 QB A signed May 1 2025 2026

Brady Oliveira -20 RB N re-signed Feb 6 2024
Michael Chris-Ike -25 RB N signed May 2024 2026
Matthew Peterson -22 RB N traded Apr 29 2025 2026

Nic Demski -10 WR N re-signed Feb 5 2023
Keric Wheatfall -88 WR A signed Jan 23 2024
Kevens Clercius -86 WR N signed May 5 2024 2026
Kody Case -2 WR A signed Jan 18 2024
Dalton Schoen -83 WR A extended Feb 1 2025
Dillon Mitchell -13 WR A signed Jan 13 2025
Gavin Cobb -82 WR N signed Feb 11 2025 2026 $80,000 - $85,000
Jerreth Sterns -89 WR A signed Feb 11 2025
Joey Corcoran -81 WR N signed May 5 2025 2026
Cam Echols -15 WR A signed Aug 25 2025 2026
Ontaria Wilson -80 WR R signed Sep 1 2025 2026

Stanley Bryant -66 OL A extended Dec 2 2024
Eric Lofton -55 OL A extended Feb 3 2025
Patrick Neufeld -53 OL N extended Jan 5 2025
Chris Kolankowski -67 OL N re-signed Jan 29 2024
Asotui Eli -65 OL N signed Jan 18 2023
Gabe Wallace -61 OL N signed May 5 2024 2026
Kendall Randolph -69 OL A re-signed May 21 2024 2026
Micah Vanterpool -68 OL A signed Feb 2 2024 2026
Ethan Vibert -62 OL N signed May 2 2025 2026

Sergio Castillo -14 K A re-signed Nov 21 2024
Jamieson Sheahan -18 P G signed May 14 2023
Ian Leroux -42 LS N signed Nov 26 2024 2026
Peyton Logan -4 KR/RB A signed Feb 11 2025 2026 $107,500
Trey Vaval -23 KR/DB A signed Feb 14 2025 2026

Jake Thomas -95 DT N extended Jan 16 2025
Willie Jefferson -5 DE A extended Jan 12 2025
Tanner Schmekel -96 DT N signed May 7 2023
Jamal Woods -91 DT A signed Nov 28 2023
Cameron Lawson -99 DT N re-signed Dec 22 2023
James Vaughters -93 DE A signed Jan 31 2025
K Munier-Bailey -45 DE G signed May 2 2025 2026
Matt Jaworski -56 DL A signed Oct 2 2025 2026
Kydran Jenkins -54 DL A signed Oct 2 2025 2026

Kyrie Wilson -19 LB A extended Jan 14 2025
Shayne Gauthier -44 LB N extended Jan 14 2025
T Gaskill-Cadwallader -47 LB N re-signed Dec 20 2023
Michael Ayers -49 LB A signed Feb 2 2024 2026
Tony Jones -33 LB A extended Dec 4 2024 2026 $117,500
Lane Novak -48 LB N signed May 2 2025 2026
Ethan Ball -29 LB/DB N signed May 2 2025 2026
Jaylen Smith -39 LB N signed May 5 2025 2026
Connor Shay -34 LB N signed May 13 2025 2026

Deatrick Nichols -1 DB A re-signed Dec 21 2023
Nick Hallett -21 DB N re-signed Feb 1 2024
Redha Kramdi -6 DB N re-signed Dec 19 2023
Evan Holm -31 DB A extended Jan 15 2025
Terrell Bonds -24 DB A signed Mar 23 2024
Michael Griffin -32 DB A signed May 18 2024
Jake Kelly -16 DB N signed May 5 2023 2026
Jamal Parker -7 DB A extended Jan 10 2025
Cam Allen -0 DB A signed Feb 14 2025 2026
Dexter Lawson, Jr. -27 DB A signed Feb 14 2025 2026
Enock Makonzo -43 DB N signed Feb 21 2025
Jaiden Woodbey -26 DB/LB A signed Mar 6 2025 2026
Demerio Houston -9 DB A signed Aug 17 2025
Ridge Texada -37 DB A signed Sep 3 2025 2026
Major Williams -41 DB A signed Oct 2 2025 2026

BOLD - pending free agent

Future contracts:
2025-09-30 WPG Davis, Tyrone WR A Nebraska (Kearney) ADD Future Active
2025-10-02 WPG Lindsay, Zovon OL A Coastal Carolina ADD Future Active
2025-10-06 WPG Pares, Sebastian OL A Eastern Illinois ADD Future Active
2025-10-07 WPG MCGHEE, Alijah DB A Minnesota State Mankato ADD Future Active
Ben Dooley -57 OL A signed Oct 13 2025 signed to future contract Nov 2 2025
Hunter Poncius -58 OL A signed Oct 2 2025 signed to future contract Nov 2 2025
De'Shaan Dixon -90 DE A signed 0ct 13 2025 signed to future contract Nov 2 2025
2025-11-02 WPG Williams, Michael (Bucky) OL A Appalachian State ADD Future Active
2025-11-11 WPG Kirtz, Bryce WR A Northwestern ADD Future Active

Once a Bomber, Always a Bomber:
AK Gassama -87 WR N signed Oct 27 2025 finished season on practice roster
Justin Mayers -64 OL A signed Aug 2 2025 finished season on practice roster
Devin Adams -94 DL A signed May 25 2024 finished season on practice roster
Collin Kornelson -97 DL N signed Dec 6 2024 finished season on practice roster
Jay Person -38 DL A signed Sept 19 2024 finished season on practice roster
Matthew Jackson -30 LB A signed Oct 2 2025 finished season on practice roster
Fabian Weitz -50 LB G signed May 8 2024 finished season on practice roster

gobombersgo · November 05, 2025, 09:27:21 PM

Eastern Semi-Final roster

Zach Collaros -8 QB A
Terry Wilson -3 QB A
Chase Artopoeus -12 QB A

Brady Oliveira -20 RB N
Michael Chris-Ike -25 FB
Matthew Peterson -22 RB N (replaced Demski)

Ontaria Wilson -80 WR R
Joey Corcoran -81 WR N
Kevens Clercius -86 WR N
Jerreth Sterns -89 WR A
Keric Wheatfall -88 WR A
Gavin Cobb -82 WR N

Stanley Bryant -66 OL A
Gabe Wallace -61 OL N
Chris Kolankowski -67 OL N
Patrick Neufeld -53 OL N
Kendall Randolph -69 OL A
Asotui Eli -65 OL N

Sergio Castillo -14 K A
Jamieson Sheahan -18 P G
Ian Leroux -42 LS N
Trey Vaval -23 KR/DB A

James Vaughters -93 DE A
Jake Thomas -95 DT N
Cameron Lawson -99 DT N
Willie Jefferson -5 DE A
K Munier-Bailey -45 DE G
Jamal Woods -91 DT A

Kyrie Wilson -19 LB A
Tony Jones -33 LB A
Redha Kramdi -6 DB N
T Gaskill-Cadwallader -47 LB N
Jaiden Woodbey -26 DB/LB A
Michael Ayers -49 LB A
Shayne Gauthier -44 LB N
Connor Shay -34 LB N
Dexter Lawson, Jr. -27 DB A
Jaylen Smith -39 LB N

Demerio Houston -9 DB A
Deatrick Nichols -1 DB A
Cam Allen -0 DB A
Evan Holm -31 DB A
Jamal Parker -7 DB A
Nick Hallett -21 DB N
Ethan Ball -29 LB/DB N

Practice Roster:
AK Gassama -87 WR N
Ben Dooley -57 OL A
Justin Mayers -64 OL A
Hunter Poncius -58 OL A
Devin Adams -94 DL A
De'Shaan Dixon -90 DE A
Collin Kornelson -97 DL N
Jay Person -38 DL A
Matthew Jackson -30 LB A
Fabian Weitz -50 LB G

1 game Injured List:
Chris Streveler -17 QB A
Peyton Logan -4 KR/RB A
Nic Demski -10 WR N (was GTD)
Cam Echols -15 WR A
Dillon Mitchell -13 WR A
Micah Vanterpool -68 OL A
Ethan Vibert -62 OL N
Matt Jaworski -56 DL A
Kydran Jenkins -54 DL A
Michael Griffin -32 DB A
Jake Kelly -16 DB N
Ridge Texada -37 DB A
Major Williams -41 DB A

6 game Injured List:
Kody Case -2 WR A
Dalton Schoen -83 WR A
Eric Lofton -55 OL A
Tanner Schmekel -96 DT N
Lane Novak -48 LB N
Terrell Bonds -24 DB A
Enock Makonzo -43 DB N

gobombersgo · November 05, 2025, 09:28:12 PM

Roster as of Nov 1 2025

Zach Collaros -8 QB A re-signed May 23 2025 2026 (Contract length) $600,000 (salary)
Terry Wilson -3 QB A signed Nov 28 2023 2026
Chris Streveler -17 QB A extended Feb 8 2025
Chase Artopoeus -12 QB A signed May 1 2025 2026

Brady Oliveira -20 RB N re-signed Feb 6 2024
Michael Chris-Ike -25 RB N signed May 2024 2026
Matthew Peterson -22 RB N traded Apr 29 2025 2026

Nic Demski -10 WR N re-signed Feb 5 2023
Keric Wheatfall -88 WR A signed Jan 23 2024
Kevens Clercius -86 WR N signed May 5 2024 2026
Kody Case -2 WR A signed Jan 18 2024
Dalton Schoen -83 WR A extended Feb 1 2025
AK Gassama -87 WR N signed Oct 27 2025 2026
Dillon Mitchell -13 WR A signed Jan 13 2025
Gavin Cobb -82 WR N signed Feb 11 2025 2026 $80,000 - $85,000
Jerreth Sterns -89 WR A signed Feb 11 2025
Joey Corcoran -81 WR N signed May 5 2025 2026
Cam Echols -15 WR A signed Aug 25 2025 2026
Ontaria Wilson -80 WR R signed Sep 1 2025 2026

Stanley Bryant -66 OL A extended Dec 2 2024
Eric Lofton -55 OL A extended Feb 3 2025
Patrick Neufeld -53 OL N extended Jan 5 2025
Chris Kolankowski -67 OL N re-signed Jan 29 2024
Asotui Eli -65 OL N signed Jan 18 2023
Gabe Wallace -61 OL N signed May 5 2024 2026
Kendall Randolph -69 OL A re-signed May 21 2024 2026
Micah Vanterpool -68 OL A signed Feb 2 2024 2026
Ethan Vibert -62 OL N signed May 2 2025 2026
Hunter Poncius -58 OL A signed Oct 2 2025 2026
Ben Dooley -57 OL A signed Oct 13 2025 2026
Justin Mayers -64 OL A signed Aug 2 2025 2026

Sergio Castillo -14 K A re-signed Nov 21 2024
Jamieson Sheahan -18 P G signed May 14 2023
Ian Leroux -42 LS N signed Nov 26 2024 2026
Peyton Logan -4 KR/RB A signed Feb 11 2025 2026 $107,500
Trey Vaval -23 KR/DB A signed Feb 14 2025 2026

Jake Thomas -95 DT N extended Jan 16 2025
Willie Jefferson -5 DE A extended Jan 12 2025
Tanner Schmekel -96 DT N signed May 7 2023
Devin Adams -94 DL A signed May 25 2024 2026
Jay Person -38 DL A signed Sept 19 2024 2026
Jamal Woods -91 DT A signed Nov 28 2023
Cameron Lawson -99 DT N re-signed Dec 22 2023
Collin Kornelson -97 DL N signed Dec 6 2024 2026
James Vaughters -93 DE A signed Jan 31 2025
K Munier-Bailey -45 DE G signed May 2 2025 2026
De'Shaan Dixon -90 DE A signed 0ct 13 2025 2026
Matt Jaworski -56 DL A signed Oct 2 2025 2026
Kydran Jenkins -54 DL A signed Oct 2 2025 2026

Kyrie Wilson -19 LB A extended Jan 14 2025
Shayne Gauthier -44 LB N extended Jan 14 2025
T Gaskill-Cadwallader -47 LB N re-signed Dec 20 2023
Michael Ayers -49 LB A signed Feb 2 2024 2026
Fabian Weitz -50 LB G signed May 8 2024 2026
Tony Jones -33 LB A extended Dec 4 2024 2026 $117,500
Lane Novak -48 LB N signed May 2 2025 2026
Ethan Ball -29 LB/DB N signed May 2 2025 2026
Jaylen Smith -39 LB N signed May 5 2025 2026
Connor Shay -34 LB N signed May 13 2025 2026
Matthew Jackson -30 LB A signed Oct 2 2025 2026

Deatrick Nichols -1 DB A re-signed Dec 21 2023
Nick Hallett -21 DB N re-signed Feb 1 2024
Redha Kramdi -6 DB N re-signed Dec 19 2023
Evan Holm -31 DB A extended Jan 15 2025
Terrell Bonds -24 DB A signed Mar 23 2024
Michael Griffin -32 DB A signed May 18 2024
Jake Kelly -16 DB N signed May 5 2023 2026
Jamal Parker -7 DB A extended Jan 10 2025
Cam Allen -0 DB A signed Feb 14 2025 2026
Dexter Lawson, Jr. -27 DB A signed Feb 14 2025 2026
Enock Makonzo -43 DB N signed Feb 21 2025
Jaiden Woodbey -26 DB/LB A signed Mar 6 2025 2026
Demerio Houston -9 DB A signed Aug 17 2025
Ridge Texada -37 DB A signed Sep 3 2025 2026
Major Williams -41 DB A signed Oct 2 2025 2026

gobombersgo · November 05, 2025, 10:10:35 PM

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers' potential 2026 free agents list
By John Hodge -November 2, 2025

Quarterback

Chris Streveler (A)

Running back

Brady Oliveira (N)

Fullback

None

Receiver

Kody Case (A)
Nic Demski (N)
Dillon Mitchell (A)
Dalton Schoen (A)
Jerreth Sterns (A)
Keric Wheatfall (A)

Offensive line

Stanley Bryant (A)
Tui Eli (N)
Chris Kolankowski (N)
Eric Lofton (A)
Patrick Neufeld (N)

Defensive line

Willie Jefferson (A)
Cameron Lawson (N)
Tanner Schmekel (N)
Jake Thomas (N)
James Vaughters (A)
Jamal Woods (A)

Linebacker

Tanner Cadwallader (N)
Shayne Gauthier (N)
Kyrie Wilson (A)

Defensive back

Terrell Bonds (A)
Michael Griffin II (A)
Nick Hallett (N)
Evan Holm (A)
Demerio Houston (A)
Redha Kramdi (N)
Enock Makonzo (N)
Deatrick Nichols (A)
Jamal Parker (A)

Specialist

Sergio Castillo (A)
Jamieson Sheahan (G)

It should be noted that players who finish the season on the practice roster automatically become free agents. This means that receiver A.K. Gassama (N), offensive linemen Ben Dooley (A), Justin Mayers (A), and Hunter Poncius (A), defensive linemen Devin Adams (A), De'Shaan Dixon (A), Collin Kornelson (N), and Jay Person (A), and linebackers Mathew Jackson (A) and Fabian Weitz (G) are free to join any other team.

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/02/the-winnipeg-blue-bombers-potential-2026-free-agents-list/

gobombersgo · November 05, 2025, 10:19:13 PM

Transactions:

2025-11-02 WPG KORNELSON, Collin DL N Manitoba DEL Free Agent
2025-11-02 WPG DOOLEY, Ben OL A Boise State ADD Future Active
2025-11-02 WPG PONCIUS, Hunter OL A North Dakota State DEL Free Agent
2025-11-02 WPG Gassama, Abdul-Karim WR N Manitoba DEL Free Agent
2025-11-02 WPG WEITZ, Fabian LB G Cologne Centurions (ELF) DEL Free Agent
2025-11-02 WPG MAYERS, Justin OL A Colorado DEL Free Agent
2025-11-02 WPG DIXON, De'Shaan DE A Norfolk State DEL Free Agent
2025-11-02 WPG DIXON, De'Shaan DE A Norfolk State ADD Future Active
2025-11-02 WPG PONCIUS, Hunter OL A North Dakota State ADD Future Active
2025-11-02 WPG DOOLEY, Ben OL A Boise State DEL Free Agent
2025-11-02 WPG Williams, Michael (Bucky) OL A Appalachian State ADD Future Active
2025-11-02 WPG PERSON, Jay DL A Chattanooga DEL Free Agent
2025-11-02 WPG JACKSON, Matthew LB A Eastern Kentucky DEL Free Agent
2025-11-02 WPG ADAMS, Devin DL A Peru State College DEL Free Agent

gobombersgo · November 05, 2025, 10:28:43 PM

Practice Roster at end of season:

AK Gassama -87 WR N free agent
Ben Dooley -57 OL A signed to future contract
Justin Mayers -64 OL A free agent
Hunter Poncius -58 OL A signed to future contact
Devin Adams -94 DL A free agent
De'Shaan Dixon -90 DE A signed to future contract
Collin Kornelson -97 DL N free agent
Jay Person -38 DL A free agent
Matthew Jackson -30 LB A free agent
Fabian Weitz -50 LB G free agent

Players signed for 2026:

Zach Collaros -8 QB A
Terry Wilson -3 QB A
Chase Artopoeus -12 QB A

Michael Chris-Ike -25 RB N
Matthew Peterson -22 RB N

Kevens Clercius -86 WR N
Gavin Cobb -82 WR N
Joey Corcoran -81 WR N
Cam Echols -15 WR A
Ontaria Wilson -80 WR A

Gabe Wallace -61 OL N
Kendall Randolph -69 OL A
Micah Vanterpool -68 OL A
Ethan Vibert -62 OL N

Ian Leroux -42 LS N
Peyton Logan -4 KR/RB A
Trey Vaval -23 KR/DB A

K Munier-Bailey -45 DE G
Matt Jaworski -56 DL A
Kydran Jenkins -54 DL A

Michael Ayers -49 LB A
Tony Jones -33 LB A
Lane Novak -48 LB N
Ethan Ball -29 LB/DB N
Jaylen Smith -39 LB N
Connor Shay -34 LB N

Jake Kelly -16 DB N
Cam Allen -0 DB A
Dexter Lawson, Jr. -27 DB A
Jaiden Woodbey -26 DB/LB A
Ridge Texada -37 DB A
Major Williams -41 DB A

gobombersgo · November 05, 2025, 10:50:36 PM

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign four to future contracts, release three
November 2, 2025 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed offensive lineman Michael 'Bucky' Williams, and re-signed offensive linemen Ben Dooley and Hunter Poncius and defensive lineman De'Shaan Dixon to future contracts that start in 2026.

They also released defensive linemen Jay Person and Devin Adams, and linebacker Fabian Weitz from the practice squad on Sunday according to the CFL Transactions page. The players who were released became free agents after Winnipeg's season ended on Saturday.

Michael 'Bucky' Williams is six foot three and weighs 300 pounds. The 25-year-old from Ringgold, Georgia, signed with the Los Angeles Chargers as an undrafted free agent on May 10, 2024. In 2024, he was placed on injured reserve for an undisclosed injury.

The Chargers released him on May 12, 2025. The Cleveland Browns signed Williams on July 30, 2025. In 2025, he played in three preseason games. The Browns released him on August 24, 2025.

Collegiately, Williams spent four seasons at Austin Peay State University (2018-21), playing left guard in 34 games for the Governors. In 2021, Austin Peay State averaged 32.6 points per game, 420.3 total yards per game, 146.6 rushing yards per game, 273.64 passing yards per game, 46 touchdowns, and allowed 26 sacks, finishing 6-5 for the season. He was named a two-time First Team All-OVC, Second Team FCS All-American by AFCA, and the OVC All-Newcomer Team.

Then, he transferred to Appalachian State University (2022-23), playing right guard in 26 games for the Mountaineers. In 2023, Appalachian State averaged 33.2 points per game, 445.9 total yards per game, 273.57 passing yards per game, 172.3 rushing yards per game, 59 touchdowns, and allowed 21 sacks, finishing 9-5 for the season. He was named First Team All-Sun Belt and Second Team All-Sun Belt by PFF.

Ben Dooley is six foot five and weighs 320 pounds. The 24-year-old from Fallon, Nevada, signed with the Los Angeles Chargers as an undrafted free agent on May 12, 2025. In 2025, he played in three preseason games.

The Rams released him on August 24, 2025. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed Dooley to the practice squad on October 13, 2025. The Blue Bombers released him on October 31, 2025.

Collegiately, Dooley spent six seasons at Boise State (2019-24), playing left guard, right guard, and right tackle in 45 games for the Broncos. In 2024, he started 14 games at left guard. Boise State averaged 37.29 points per game, 240.4 rushing yards per game, 225.64 passing yards per game, 466 yards per game, 69 touchdowns, and allowed 15 sacks, finishing 12-2 for the season.

Dooley allowed one sack in 428 opportunities. He was named Second Team All-Mountain West in 2023, First Team All-Mountain West in 2024, First Team All-Mountain West by Phil Steele in 2024, Third Team All-American by College Football Network, and a five-time Academic All-Mountain West (Fall 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024).

Hunter Poncius is six foot eight and weighs 318 pounds. The 24-year-old from Buffalo, Minnesota, signed with the Montreal Alouettes on April 16, 2025. In 2025, he played left guard in two preseason games. The Alouettes released him on May 31, 2025. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed Poncius to the practice squad on October 2, 2025. The Blue Bombers released him on October 31, 2025.

Collegiately, Poncius played five seasons at North Dakota State (2019-24), playing 40 games for the Bisons. He was named the 2023 MVFC Presidents Council Academic Award, a four-time MVFC Commissioner's Academic Excellence Award (2020-23), and a five-time MVFC Honor Roll (2019-24).

In 2024, he was a backup left tackle for the majority of the 2024 season. He played 16 games on the PAT and field goal units. He started the final three games at left tackle for the Bisons.

North Dakota State averaged 38.1 points per game, 193.3 rushing yards per game, 224.2 passing yards per game, 76 touchdowns, and allowed 20 sacks, finishing 10-2 for the season on their way to winning the FCS National Championship, defeating Montana State. It was North Dakota State's tenth FCS National Championship and 18th overall title in program history.

De'Shaan Dixon is six foot five and weighs 247 pounds. The 26-year-old from Chesapeake, Virginia, signed with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on October 13, 2025. He spent the rest of the season on the practice squad. The Blue Bombers released him on October 31, 2025.

The Jacksonville Jaguars signed Dixon as an undrafted free agent on May 5, 2022. Dixon made 10 tackles (4 solos, 6 assists), one sack, and one pass breakup in six preseason games. He would appear in three regular-season games with one tackle (1 assist). Dixon was on injured reserve in 2024 and was released on August 9, 2024.

Collegiately, Dixon played five seasons at Norfolk State (2017-21) with 154 tackles (69 solos, 65 assists), 24.5 tackles for loss, 14.5 sacks, 10 pass breakups, one forced fumble, two fumble recoveries, and one kick return for 11 yards in 42 games for the Spartans. He was named First Team All-MEAC in 2021 and Third Team All-MEAC in 2019.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2025/11/02/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-four-to-future-contracts-release-three/

Throw Long Bannatyne · November 12, 2025, 06:52:52 PM

Well, I guess that tells us what they think of Adams and Persons, they got pushed out the door like Habba, Garbutt and Fox. Can't say they ddidn't give them enough time to prove themselves, but I wish they were more efficient and reached the conclusion quicker.

gobombersgo · November 12, 2025, 11:35:29 PM

1st & 10 - Offseason Questions/Issues
November 7, 2025 Ed Tait

A LONG LIST OF PENDING FREE AGENTS

Don't be alarmed by the long list of pending free agents — 33 in total — because every team has a big chunk of contracts to deal with at this time of year. But, again, the uncertainty above does impact how quickly that list can be attacked, especially with teams already chipping away at it.

Winnipeg's list is substantial, led by running back Brady Oliveira, receivers Nic Demski, Jerreth Sterns[/b] and Keric Wheatfall, three starting offensive linemen in Stanley Bryant, Pat Neufeld and Chris Kolankowski, along with sixth man Tui Eli, six players who started games on the D-line in Willie Jefferson, James Vaughters, Jake Thomas, Cam Lawson, Jamal Woods and Tanner Schmekel, veteran linebackers Kyrie Wilson, Shayne Gauthier and Tanner Cadwallader, five players who started in the secondary in Evan Holm, Deatrick Nichols, Redha Kramdi, Jamal Parker, Jr. and Demerio Houston as well as placekicker Sergio Castillo and punter Jamieson Sheahan.

THE QB PICTURE

The Blue Bombers QB1, Zach Collaros, is under contract for 2026 and so the club has a sense of stability at the most important position on the field. All that said, he's 37 and coming off a season in which he missed four starts, sat for a fifth and did finish three other contests. Countering that concern is his ability to still be a difference maker when given the opportunity, his knowledge of the game and his leadership.

What shouldn't be forgotten here, too, is this: two of the three CFL's leading passers outside of B.C.'s Nathan Rourke — Saskatchewan's Trevor Harris and Bo Levi Mitchell of Hamilton — have enjoyed career renaissances while working in a system where the ball comes out of their hands instantly. Harris, FYI, is 39 and Mitchell is 35.

It's what is behind Collaros on the Blue Bombers depth chart which makes the picture so blurry. Veteran Chris Streveler suffered a knee injury in the regular-season finale and is a pending free agent. Terry Wilson came off the bench to help lead the team to a victory in that regular season finale, but hasn't really had the opportunity to prove whether he is a keeper long term or not. Ditto for rookie Chase Artopoeus, who dressed for five games but didn't throw a pass.

The key to all this could be Taylor Elgersma, selected 18th overall by the Blue Bombers this past spring in the CFL Draft. He's big at 6-5 and has the skillset to have intrigued a number of NFL teams last year before he signed with the Green Bay Packers. Despite an impressive preseason, he was released, had a look from the New York Giants and is still waiting for an NFL opportunity. The Blue Bombers have reached out to him and his decision for 2026 could be critical for him and for the club.

If he keeps chasing the NFL dream, as is obviously his right, he risks losing another year of playing time. And if that door closes and he signs in Winnipeg, he could benefit from learning from one of the smartest pivots in the CFL in Collaros and then set himself up as a possible heir apparent.

CONTINUITY/LOYALTY VS. YOUNGER/CHEAPER

Virtually every organization wrestles with this every offseason, and it's been especially the case over the last few years with the Blue Bombers appearance in five straight finals and wanting to ride or die with the group that got them at or near the pinnacle.

Still, birth certificates don't lie, and the club finished 2025 with 11 starters 30 years or older in Bryant (39), Collaros [/b](37), Neufeld (36), Jefferson (34), Thomas (34), Kolankowski (33), Vaughters (32), Kyrie Wilson (32), Demski (31), Nichols (31) and Tony Jones (30). All but Collaros and Jones are moving to the free-agent market, which opens in February.

There's no question many of those players still have tread on their tires — Bryant, for example, was once again named the club's top lineman and looks like he could play until he is 90 — but bringing back all of them, or even a majority, has significant salary camp implications while blocking the path of ready-for-primetime players like Micah Vanterpool and Cam Lawson, draft picks/prospects like guard Ethan Vibert and defensive ends Matthew Jaworski and Kydran Jenkins, both of whom stood out in the final regular-season game.

THE TRENCHES

In his season-ending press conference Collaros made mention of some of the offensive troops recently watching film of the 2019 Grey Cup and marvelling how the O-line repeatedly blew the Tiger-Cats off the line of scrimmage, all part of a dominant 33-12 win. Winnipeg's big eaters up front are still effective in run blocking — the offence finished second in the league in rushing yards per game at 124.1 (Calgary was first at 126.7). But, again, three starters are now in their 30s and the pass protection issues — 37 sacks allowed, ranking sixth — are partly owned by this unit, by the quarterbacks, and by the play calling.

Still 'dominant' is not a word which was used to describe Winnipeg's front, certainly not the way it has been in the past few years.

The defensive line situation is also worth looking at as part of a bigger take on the Blue Bombers at the line of scrimmage. Winnipeg's defence finished first in offensive points allowed (24.1), third in net yardage (344.3), second vs the pass (261.4), third against the run (94.1) while allowing 21 TDs — tied for fewest in the league. Those are all exceptional numbers that speak of the work of defensive coordinator Jordan Younger's crew.

The flip side of that is the overall defensive approach, which regularly drops eight-nine players into coverage, and means there is often less pressure on QBs. As a result, Winnipeg ranked last in sacks (23), last in tackles for losses (20), sixth in forced fumbles (11) and tied for last in interceptions (13). Vaughters is coming off a season in which he had a career high six sacks and while Jefferson's sack totals were down — he had only three, tying a career low set in Saskatchewan in 2016 when he played in only five games after a shot in the NFL — he did lead the league with 16 pass knockdowns.

STOCKPILING THE CANADIAN CUPBOARD

The Blue Bombers got significant contributions from their 2025 CFL Draft class, with linebackers Jaylen Smith and Connor Shay both suiting up for every game — Smith also finished second on the team and fifth in the league in special teams tackles with 22 — while defensive back Ethan Ball dressed for every game after returning from a hand injury, receiver Joey Corcoran started the Eastern Semi-Final, with linebacker Lane Novak making the team out of camp before suffering a knee injury and Vibert, mentioned above, a promising prospect at guard.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/11/07/1st-10-offseason-questions-issues/

gobombersgo · November 12, 2025, 11:37:23 PM

Transactions:

2025-11-11 WPG Kirtz, Bryce WR A Northwestern ADD Future Active

gobombersgo · November 12, 2025, 11:42:45 PM

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign wide receiver Bryce Kirtz to a future contract
November 11, 2025 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed wide receiver Bryce Kirtz to a future contract that starts in 2026 on Tuesday according to the CFL Transactions page.

Bryce Kirtz is six foot and weighs 180 pounds. A native of Brownsburg, Indiana, Kirtz spent six seasons at Northwestern (2019-24) with 132 catches for 1,781 yards (36.2 AVG/G), five touchdowns, two carries for seven yards, two kick returns for 17 yards, five punt returns for 63 yards, and one tackle (1 solo) in 49 games for the Wildcats.

In 2023, Kirtz set career marks with 49 catches for 701 yards (58.4 AVG/G), five touchdowns, two kick returns for 17 yards, and one punt return for one yard in 12 games. In the Las Vegas Bowl against Utah, Kirtz made five catches for 68 yards and one touchdown. He was named an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention.

In his final season in 2024, Kirtz served as a team captain. He made 39 catches for 598 yards and two punt returns for 36 yards in 11 games.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2025/11/11/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-wide-receiver-bryce-kirtz-to-a-future-contract/

gobombersgo · November 17, 2025, 09:17:19 PM

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2025-11-14 WPG Dixon, Michael DB A Rutgers ADD Future Active

gobombersgo · November 17, 2025, 09:19:42 PM

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign defensive back Michael 'Flip' Dixon to a future contract
November 14, 2025 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed defensive back Michael 'Flip' Dixon to a future contract that starts in 2026 on Friday according to the CFL Transactions page.

Michael 'Flip' Dixon is six foot two and weighs 210 pounds. A native of Statesboro, Georgia, Dixon attended the Buffalo Bills rookie minicamp in 2025.

Collegiately, Dixon spent three seasons at Minnesota (2020-22) with 45 tackles (27 solos, 18 assists), 1.5 tackles for loss, one interception, and four pass breakups in 30 games for the Golden Gophers. In 2022, he made 28 tackles (15 solos, 13 assists), 1.5 tackles for loss, and three pass breakups in 12 games.

Then, he transferred to Rutgers (2023-24) with 138 tackles (84 solos, 54 assists), two tackles for loss, two interceptions for 23 yards, 12 pass breakups, one forced fumble, and one blocked kick in 25 games for the Scarlet Knights.

In 2023, he had a career-high 76 tackles (51 solos, 25 assists), two tackles for loss, one interception, seven pass breakups, and one forced fumble in 13 games. In his final collegiate season, Dixon made 62 tackles (33 solos, 29 assists), one interception for 23 yards, five pass breakups, and one blocked kick in 12 games.

Dixon was named a four-time Academic All-Big Ten, All-ECAC Defense, Fourth Team All-Big Ten by Phil Steele, All-Big Ten Honorable Mention, and was named to the 2025 Hampshire Honor Society.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2025/11/14/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-defensive-back-michael-flip-dixon-to-a-future-contract/

gobombersgo · November 17, 2025, 09:22:08 PM

Blue Bombers add to roster

WINNIPEG, MB., November 17, 2025 – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the team has signed American defensive back Alijah McGhee, American receiver Tyrone (TJ) Davis, American offensive linemen Zovon Lindsay, Sebastian Pares, and Michael (Bucky) Williams, and American receiver Kenneth Womack to futures deals as of the 2026 season.

McGhee (6-2, 195, Minnesota State Mankato; born: October 13, 1999, in Warner Robins, GA.) signs a futures contract with the Bombers after spending the last two seasons with the Ottawa Redblacks, and a five-year collegiate career with Kentucky Wesleyan (2018-2020), and Minnesota State (2021-2022).

McGhee signed with the Redblacks in August 2023. During his rookie season he appeared in two games with six tackles and one forced fumble. In 2024, after recovering from an early injury, he started 11 of the final 12 games, finishing with 44 tackles, three interceptions, and one forced fumble. His CFL totals now stand at 50 tackles, seven pass deflections, three interceptions for 46 return yards, and two forced fumbles.

Before going pro, McGhee played at Kentucky Wesleyan (2018–2020), recording 82 tackles and 14 pass breakups. He transferred to Minnesota State (2021–2022), where he totaled 80 tackles, nine pass breakups, two interceptions, seven tackles for loss, and two blocked kicks. In 2022, he earned Second Team All-NSIC honours and multiple defensive players of the week awards.

Davis (6-3, 180, Nebraska-Kearney; born: January 27, 2000, in Colorado Springs, CO.) signs a futures contract with the Blue Bombers after one season in the IFL, and a five-year collegiate career with the University of Nebraska-Kearney.

Davis signed with the Green Bay Blizzard of the Indoor Football League (IFL) in July 2024 but did not appear in any games. He re-signed with the team on November 27, 2024.

In his 2025 season, Davis played in 19 games during his rookie season. He recorded 70 receptions for 904 yards and 26 touchdowns, rushed 14 times for 45 yards and two touchdowns, completed a four-yard touchdown pass, and returned 21 kicks for 355 yards. He was named to both the All-IFL Second Team and the IFL All-Rookie Team.

In college, Davis played five seasons (2019–2023) at quarterback for the University of Nebraska–Kearney. In 49 games, he completed 402 passes for 6,525 yards, 61 touchdowns while adding 4,361 rushing yards and 61 touchdowns on 852 carries. Davis also recorded three receptions for eight yards and one touchdown. As a starter, he led the Lopers to a 25–9 record.

Davis was a two-time MIAA Offensive Player of the Year, two-time AFCA All-American, and two-time finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy.

Lindsay (6-4, 300, Coastal Carolina; born: November 28, 2000, in Fayetteville, NC.) signs a futures deal with the Bombers after a five-year collegiate career with NC State (2019-2020), and Coastal Carolina (2021-2023).

Lindsay began his collegiate career at NC State University for the 2019 and 2020 seasons but did not see any game action.

In 2021, Lindsay transferred to Coastal Carolina University. Over the next three seasons, he played in 39 games, starting in 36 of them. In 2023 as an offence, Coastal ranked first in the Sun Belt in passing yards per attempt (8.49), and third in yards per play (6.33) and sacks allowed (16). They ranked 24th nationally in sacks allowed.

Pares (6-6, 310, Eastern Illinois; born: February 12, 2001, in Joliet, IL.) signs a futures deal after a three-year collegiate career with the University of Sioux Falls (2019), and Eastern Illinois (2023-2024).

Pares began his college career at the University of Sioux Falls where he would appear in 21 games, finishing both seasons with an 8-3 record.

For the 2023 season, Pares transferred to Eastern Illinois, where he would appear in 22 games, starting all but one over two seasons. The 2024 season saw Pares block for a first team All-Conference running back, and pass protected a 3,000-yard quarterback for the fourth time in school history. The year prior, Pares was named to the second team All Big-South-OVC Football Association at offensive line.

Williams (6-3, 300, Appalachian State; born: March 20, 2000, in Ringgold, GA.) signs with the Bombers after two NFL contracts and a five-year collegiate career with Austin Peay (2019-2021), and Appalachian State (2022-2023).

Williams appeared in 61 career collegiate games with 53 starts, including starting all 14 games in 2023 for Appalachian State, where he earned First-Team All-Sun Belt honours while allowing just two sacks in 470 pass-blocking snaps. Prior to that, he made 34 straight starts at Austin Peay State University and was named a Second-Team FCS All�-American.

Williams entered the NFL in 2024 as an undrafted free agent, signing with the Los Angeles Chargers, and spent his rookie season on injured reserve. He has also spent time in the Cleveland Browns organization this season.

Womack (6-0, 195, Western Michigan; born: February 7, 2001, in Upper Marlboro, MD.) signs a futures deal with the Bombers after a five-year collegiate career with Sacred Heart (2020-2022) and Western Michigan (2023-2024).

He began his collegiate career at Sacred Heart University, where he recorded 98 receptions for 1,234 yards and five touchdowns. In his 2022 season he led the team with 721 receiving yards on 52 catches and scored three receiving touchdowns.

In 2023, he transferred to Western Michigan University and would catch 115 passes for 1,236 yards and two touchdowns over the next two seasons (22 games). After the 2023 season he was named First Team All-MAC and led the MAC in receptions with 76.