Bombers sign QB Payton Thorne, release Parker & Echols

[VictorRomano]

As per bluebombers.com

Thorne (6'2", 207#) played collegiately at Michigan & Auburn, and was invited to camp with the Cincinatti Bengals in 2025.

[Blue In BC]

I didn't think Echols would be returning but a bit surprised about Parker being released. That may be an SMS issue with current demands and / or injury history?

There are few other players I'd think will be released in a similar fashion. The question is why now two days before Christmas? Hopefully this means we have a clearer picture about Holm re-signing as well as Houston and Bonds status. Noting I didn't think Bonds would be back or even available but OTOH I didn't think Parker would released now!!

Thanks to Parker for his time in Winnipeg. He'll probably get at least a TC invite elsewhere.

[Jesse]

Thorne seems like an exciting prospect.

I really liked Parker in his first season. I thought he was going to be really good but the injury seemed to derail him a bit. I hope he's able to catch on somewhere else.

[Blue In BC]

Thorne was recently added to our neg list. Most of the QB's on our list were added between August and October of this year. Some are interesting but who might be interested in coming to the CFL in 2026 is TBD.

[Blueforlife]

Sad to see Parker go but makes sense too much $ for a good but not great player.  Worth it to develop a new face.  I liked him and he played well last year.  He will be employed but will take a pay cut.