Please comment on Blue Bombers player announcements from the 2025 CFL Draft here.
For the record, Blue Bomber picks this year (barring trades) are as follows:
Round 1 - #6
Round 2 - #15 and #18
Round 3 - #27
Round 4 - #36
Round 5 - #45
Round 6 - #54
Round 7 - #63
Round 8 - #71
The CFL will welcome its 2025 Draft class on Tuesday, April 29, with the Global Draft and the CFL Draft.
Football fans across the country can tune into CFL Draft starting at 6:00 p.m. ET.
The first two rounds, including commentary and in-depth analysis, will be broadcast on TSN, tsn.ca, rds.ca and the TSN and RDS apps. Exclusive coverage of rounds 3-8 can be seen on TSN+.
All picks will also be unfolding in real time on CFL.ca's Official CFL Draft Tracker.
Quote from: ModAdmin on April 27, 2025, 04:43:35 AMPlease comment on Blue Bombers player announcements from the 2025 CFL Draft here.
For the record, Blue Bomber picks this year (barring trades) are as follows:
Round 1 - #6
Round 2 - #15 and #18
Round 3 - #27
Round 4 - #36
Round 5 - #45
Round 6 - #54
Round 7 - #63
Round 8 - #71
The CFL will welcome its 2025 Draft class on Tuesday, April 29, with the Global Draft and the CFL Draft.
Football fans across the country can tune into CFL Draft starting at 6:00 p.m. ET.
The first two rounds, including commentary and in-depth analysis, will be broadcast on TSN, tsn.ca, rds.ca and the TSN and RDS apps. Exclusive coverage of rounds 3-8 can be seen on TSN+.
All picks will also be unfolding in real time on CFL.ca's Official CFL Draft Tracker.
Good for TSN to broadcast the CFL draft, it probably won't gather very many eyeballs but it's an important component of their mandatory obligation to promote their client.
For those that are interested: CFL.CA has positional rankings for Canadian and Global players in the draft tomorrow. Of particular interest ( to me ) there are some rankings of specialists. I've attached a few that might be worth a look see as choices are made.
Apparently there are 82 global players that are eligible to be drafted although many have signed NFL contracts ( kickers / punters ).
https://3downnation.com/2025/04/28/2025-cfl-draft-rankings-specialists/
https://3downnation.com/2025/04/28/top-eight-specialists-in-2025-cfl-global-draft/
https://3downnation.com/2025/04/28/top-10-position-players-in-the-2025-cfl-global-draft/
" As always, 3DownNation will be your go-to source for extensive coverage of all eight rounds. Analysts J.C. Abbott and Ben Grant will be live on YouTube and Facebook for the entirety of the selection process, breaking down every pick as it happens."
OK, how many "flyer" picks does a team "waste"?
We have a very deep NAT roster, definately take BPA the first two rounds, but starting with the free fakenat pick, do we start looking at players that have NFL interest that might end up here in 5 years?
We seem to find gems in the later rounds, so it never hurts to load up the roster and have to make those difficult decisions on who to keep after TC, but I'd hope we use 2 or 3 picks on star talent not likely to be here for a couple years.
Like Manu last year... I'd like more of these if possible. I know that when they become available late season they can be $SMS nightmares, but we always seem to have buffer available, and the contracts are pro-rated.
At worst, they have some pretty solid trade value if we don't have a spot for them.
Quote from: theaardvark on April 28, 2025, 04:59:03 PMOK, how many "flyer" picks does a team "waste"?
We have a very deep NAT roster, definately take BPA the first two rounds, but starting with the free fakenat pick, do we start looking at players that have NFL interest that might end up here in 5 years?
We seem to find gems in the later rounds, so it never hurts to load up the roster and have to make those difficult decisions on who to keep after TC, but I'd hope we use 2 or 3 picks on star talent not likely to be here for a couple years.
Like Manu last year... I'd like more of these if possible. I know that when they become available late season they can be $SMS nightmares, but we always seem to have buffer available, and the contracts are pro-rated.
At worst, they have some pretty solid trade value if we don't have a spot for them.
I don't think there's any specific philosophy entering the draft, aards. With each pick, you weigh the cost/benefit of a player who you know is available vs. one who may spend some time down south. How much are you losing by taking the available guy? Is that difference acceptable or not.
I'd be ok with using our 3rd overall pick on a flyer. We didn't do that until round 5 last year. I think it depends on what we think our chances are that a given player shows up by mid season. There are some good players that only got mini camp invites that might be available by September.
Players getting drafted or signed as UDFA's have a descending chance of showing up for 2025.
I wouldn't take a flyer with any of our first 3 picks. #27 or #36 maybe, after that I good with taking a flyer.
If I'm KW, I know my R1 pick is going to be Best Player Available - I need someone who can legit challenge for a starting job this year. Therefore, I'm going Best Available OL, or maybe DB.
Round 2 is the same, but if Rourke is still available at 15/18, I'm taking him in a heartbeat. If Veresuk or Hundeby are available at 18, I'm grabbing either of them. Guys are both physical freaks, and Hundeby was born and raised in Rider Green, so I'd do this just to piss off the Rider fanbase and grab a guy that can contribute on ST this year and grow into a potentially monsterous backup MLB.
R3 and beyond is BPA within a need group - OL, DL, maybe an RB or WR.
The Huddle: Draft Special with Derek Taylor On YouTube now.
Quote from: theaardvark on April 28, 2025, 04:59:03 PMI know that when they become available late season they can be $SMS nightmares, but we always seem to have buffer available, and the contracts are pro-rated.
Not anymore! BC gave us the cheat codes. Sign 'em all and pay them $200k MM. Problem solved! Weeeeeeeeeee!
Quote from: TecnoGenius on April 29, 2025, 06:29:50 AMNot anymore! BC gave us the cheat codes. Sign 'em all and pay them $200k MM. Problem solved! Weeeeeeeeeee!
It's usual that we see a returning player that is going to get Rourke or Betts money. Sometimes a player under contract returns and gets extended with a raise like Mack did in Montreal. We might see Wilson return and do something similar. However these are not examples of a returnee getting $600K.
For that matter, we don't even see that very often in actual free agency beyond a QB.
Blue Bombers agree to trade with Hamilton Tiger-Cats
WINNIPEG, MB., April 29, 2025 – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has acquired National running back Matthew Peterson (Alberta), the second pick in the first round of today's Global Draft, and the 39th pick overall (5th round) in the CFL Draft from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
In exchange, Hamilton receives National defensive lineman Kyle Samson, the eighth pick in the first round of the Global Draft, and the 36th overall selection in the CFL Draft (4th round).
Quote from: ModAdmin on April 29, 2025, 03:19:02 PMBlue Bombers agree to trade with Hamilton Tiger-Cats
WINNIPEG, MB., April 29, 2025 – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has acquired National running back Matthew Peterson (Alberta), the second pick in the first round of today's Global Draft, and the 39th pick overall (5th round) in the CFL Draft from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
In exchange, Hamilton receives National defensive lineman Kyle Samson, the eighth pick in the first round of the Global Draft, and the 36th overall selection in the CFL Draft (4th round).
Trending, Bombers giving up on Natl. player pretty early in their careers, are they forecasting they lack the potential to become future starters without giving them a fair number of reps. to develop? The Hallett boys were given years to develop, and haven't amounted to much.
Can't figure out the Global connection with Peterson, bio says he was born in Brooks AB and played for the AB Golden Bears. Must have been pretty good as he was voted CanWest football player of the year in 2023 . Thinking they see a bit of a Brady clone that can fill in if he goes down, leaving Logan free to do returns.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 29, 2025, 04:41:30 PMTrending, Bombers giving up on Natl. player pretty early in their careers, are they forecasting they lack the potential to become future starters without giving them a fair number of reps. to develop? The Hallett boys were given years to develop, and haven't amounted to much.
Can't figure out the Global connection with Peterson, bio says he was born in Brooks AB.
It's Peterson for Samson. both Canadians.
we swap picks in both global draft (move up) and regular draft (move down).
We had a glut at DT. is how Ed Tait sees it.
Following the dots, he was an Ed Hervey project he brought to Hamilton.
Global draft is here:
https://www.cfl.ca/2025-global-draft-tracker/
Bomber picks:
Kemari Munier-Bailey, Defensive Lineman, Weber State
James Evans, Punter, Indiana
Bailey, 6'3" 235, has good speed and is very athletics. Like this pick.
Quote from: Pigskin on April 29, 2025, 08:34:30 PMBailey, 6'3" 235, has good speed and is very athletics. Like this pick.
I don't remember another team trading up in the global draft. They must have seen something they wanted in doing this.
As far as Samson part of the deal, we were deep at DT and getting a RB in trade makes sense on the surface. He may not make the AR early but could be a development player behind Oliveria on the PR to start the season. He has talent.
The Canadian draft is coming up in less than an hour. It's always interesting to see who we pick.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 29, 2025, 09:10:35 PMI don't remember another team trading up in the global draft. They must have seen something they wanted in doing this.
As far as Samson part of the deal, we were deep at DT and getting a RB in trade makes sense on the surface. He may not make the AR early but could be a development player behind Oliveria on the PR to start the season. He has talent.
The Canadian draft is coming up in less than an hour. It's always interesting to see who we pick.
Petereson spent last season on the Ti-Cats PR and never saw any game action, that could happen again or maybe they slide him into Augustine's role helping out on ST.
We took LB Connor Shay out of Wyoming. Nice. Immediate contributor on ST, backup to T.Jones?
O'Shea picks Shay has a nice ring. I think the hope is he's immediately a blue chip special teams contributer and probably is more of a weakside linebacker in year two but who knows.
Getting another Canadian RB is a very smart move and could help us continue domination in this regard if lightning can strike 3 times in a row.
Even just for a decent backup rings my bell.
I'd take Rourke with one of our picks here. Very good chance he ends up in the CFL at some point.
Watching the CFL draft tracker, how much time do the teams have to make their pick, BC has been on the clock forever.
Haha Bombers pass on Rourke.
Quote from: Horseman on April 29, 2025, 11:55:24 PMWatching the CFL draft tracker, how much time do the teams have to make their pick, BC has been on the clock forever.
CFL one is kinda broken tonight. Use TSN.
Of all the players I thought we might pick so far, these weren't them. I'm not suggesting that is a bad thing but I didn't imagine picking 2 LB's with our 1st 2 picks. Picking a QB with our 3rd pick was not the worst idea but we do have 5 QB's on the roster already.
Shay was ranked as the possible 1st pick in some mock drafts so in theory he was a steal at # 6. Potentially Gauthier's replacement in 2026 and depth for this season.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 30, 2025, 12:17:36 AMCFL one is kinda broken tonight. Use TSN.
Watched the first hour of the TSN CFL draft show on YouTube and it was very well done, LaPo, Marshal Ferguson and Duane Ford did a really good job filling in the blanks on the drafted players.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 30, 2025, 12:27:52 AMOf all the players I thought we might pick so far, these weren't them. I'm not suggesting that is a bad thing but I didn't imagine picking 2 LB's with our 1st 2 picks. Picking a QB with our 3rd pick was not the worst idea but we do have 5 QB's on the roster already.
Shay was ranked as the possible 1st pick in some mock drafts so in theory he was a steal at # 6. Potentially Gauthier's replacement in 2026 and depth for this season.
Jaylen Smith might be listed as a linebacker but if he is one he's going to be in that sam spot. He played some corner last year. Think Kramdi not Biggie.
It's probably more accurate to say we drafted a linebacker, slot corner and QB with our first three.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 30, 2025, 12:34:34 AMJaylen Smith might be listed as a linebacker but if he is one he's going to be in that sam spot. He played some corner last year. Think Kramdi not Biggie.
It's probably more accurate to say we drafted a linebacker, slot corner and QB with our first three.
One of the mock drafts said Smith was not fluid enough to play SAM but could be a guy that could play at WIL. If he isn't fluid enough to play at SAM then I wouldn't expect him see any time at CB either. OTOH that was just what the mock draft suggested. I don't think I've seen him play or what other mock drafts suggested.
Regardless, SAM or WIL are not areas of need, so he must have been a BPA.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 30, 2025, 12:49:43 AMOne of the mock drafts said Smith was not fluid enough to play SAM but could be a guy that could play at WIL. If he isn't fluid enough to play at SAM then I wouldn't expect him see any time at CB either. OTOH that was just what the mock draft suggested. I don't think I've seen him play or what other mock drafts suggested.
Regardless, SAM or WIL are not areas of need, so he must have been a BPA.
What you read is wrong. He's an 5 foot 11 coverage linebacker. He's not going to play will at the pro level.
He might have a shot at playing sam which is slot coverage in the US which is what we did a lot in college:
All-AAC selection last season after recording 106 total tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, three pass breakups, and one interception. He played a hybrid linebacker role and saw significant snaps covering the slot.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 30, 2025, 12:58:22 AMWhat you read is wrong. He's an 5 foot 11 coverage linebacker. He's not going to play will at the pro level.
He might have a shot at playing sam which is slot coverage in the US which is what we did a lot in college:
All-AAC selection last season after recording 106 total tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, three pass breakups, and one interception. He played a hybrid linebacker role and saw significant snaps covering the slot.
This is the info I read from the mock draft. What I read wasn't wrong, it was just their opinion about this potential in the CFL. You've stated that you differ from what they said.
A former walk-on who developed into a 100-tackle starter for the Mean Green, Smith is not quite fluid enough to play SAM but well-suited to play weak-side linebacker in the CFL after excelling over the slot in college. Even if the five-foot-11, 224-pounder never finds the consistency needed to become a starter, his history as an elite collegiate special teams player makes him one of the safest projections in the draft.
This is the info from the mock draft I read about Smith.
Another pick at LB: Lane Novak. Then a DB pick Ethan Ball.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 29, 2025, 11:13:10 PMO'Shea picks Shay has a nice ring. I think the hope is he's immediately a blue chip special teams contributer and probably is more of a weakside linebacker in year two but who knows.
Could be. However, it seems clear we now like to aim for finding a legit starter at strange NAT positions, especially on D. Shay or Smith could turn into the next Kramdi. Imagine a D with 2 good NATs starting in the LB corps.
We certainly don't need to dress 5-6 NAT backup LB (really just STers) like we used to. Hopefully we found a year-2 starter!
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 30, 2025, 01:27:30 AMThis is the info I read from the mock draft. What I read wasn't wrong, it was just their opinion about this potential in the CFL. You've stated that you differ from what they said.
A former walk-on who developed into a 100-tackle starter for the Mean Green, Smith is not quite fluid enough to play SAM but well-suited to play weak-side linebacker in the CFL after excelling over the slot in college. Even if the five-foot-11, 224-pounder never finds the consistency needed to become a starter, his history as an elite collegiate special teams player makes him one of the safest projections in the draft.
This is the info from the mock draft I read about Smith.
Read some stuff and watched some highlights and you could be right on this one -- but I wonder if his comparable might be Michael Griffin. Sort of that special teams guy who can do a bit of everything on defense. We listed Griffin as a SAM last year but he sort of dropped and did a bunch of stuff especially when we had 9 back.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 30, 2025, 12:17:36 AMCFL one is kinda broken tonight. Use TSN.
Why does TSN schedule the draft for 2hr and then run it for > 2.25 hr? My PVR only got up to the Elgersma pick.
I think that happened last year, too. Argh, should have remembered.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 30, 2025, 12:34:21 AMWatched the first hour of the TSN CFL draft show on YouTube and it was very well done, LaPo, Marshal Ferguson and Duane Ford did a really good job filling in the blanks on the drafted players.
Ya, the draft show is always pretty good. New Commish did ok too.
TSN sometimes showed the pick on the chyron before Commish announced it though... lol.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 30, 2025, 12:49:43 AMRegardless, SAM or WIL are not areas of need, so he must have been a BPA.
Smith could backup Kramdi at SAM, obviating the need for a DI SAM backup. What might this mean for Griffin?
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 30, 2025, 01:33:35 AMAnother pick at LB: Lane Novak. Then a DB pick Ethan Ball.
Are we making any effort to solve the FS puzzle? BA37 gone. I'm pretty sure Hallett-The-Healthy can't handle it full time.
Boy it would be nice to draft the next Dequoy. What round did he originally go in? If he was anything less than 1st round he was a steal.
I think we got some good players in Shay, Smith and Elgersma. Still I feel we missed out on Findlay who was a steal as a late second round pick. Smiths measurables are impressive but we seemed to have stocked up already on tweeners (LB and db) with Hagerty and Makonzo already signed.
With Elgersma if he does come available this year what do we do on the roster? With Collaros as qb1, and Streveler as short yardage, how does Elgersma fit in with an already crowded qb room
Do we risk losing him on the pr? that could be fodder for years to come.
The other question marks are at receiver where we really have only Cobbs and Gassama.both being undersized and at Oline, both positions weren't really addressed in this draft.
Thanks for the analysis everyone! Good banter
Quote from: TecnoGenius on April 30, 2025, 02:23:29 AMSmith could backup Kramdi at SAM, obviating the need for a DI SAM backup. What might this mean for Griffin?
I already mentioned that he was not viewed as a candidate at SAM due to lack of fluidity. Now obviously that might be something he can improve. Regardless I thought Makonzo would be a back up at SAM as far as Canadian depth for 2025.
Not every draft choice is an obvious fit, but that doesn't mean any of them are bad choices.
I don't know if any of these choices have university time left, so not everyone may be fighting for a roster spot in 2025. I think they put some thought into the direction of the roster going into 2026 as well. ST and rotational players this year and possibly fighting to start or get more time as strong rotational players.
Gauthier might be in his last season so we might be developing his replacement?
I wasn't opposed to drafting a QB but considering who we passed over to do that might have been a surprise as to when we choose him.
It may be a crowded QB room in TC or we may see someone deleted quickly.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 30, 2025, 02:12:56 AMRead some stuff and watched some highlights and you could be right on this one -- but I wonder if his comparable might be Michael Griffin. Sort of that special teams guy who can do a bit of everything on defense. We listed Griffin as a SAM last year but he sort of dropped and did a bunch of stuff especially when we had 9 back.
I don't know that I'm right as I was just quoting that mock draft. They voiced an opinion but players can improve too. So we'll see how they use him in TC and what his strengths and weaknesses might be.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 30, 2025, 12:34:34 AMJaylen Smith might be listed as a linebacker but if he is one he's going to be in that sam spot. He played some corner last year. Think Kramdi not Biggie.
It's probably more accurate to say we drafted a linebacker, slot corner and QB with our first three.
SAM is one of the linebacker positions. Just like how Nick Cross was drafted as linebacker, because he played SAM in college.
Quote from: CrazyCanuck89 on April 30, 2025, 03:20:07 AMSAM is one of the linebacker positions. Just like how Nick Cross was drafted as linebacker, because he played SAM in college.
Sorta kinda not really. Not in the CFL. You have to be able to run & cover that inside slot, who is often the most targeted REC. Just look at Kramdi, who isn't exactly a beefy giant.
Our best SAMs always looked more like a DB than a LBer. However, more beef can help with the run D.
Quote from: Pete on April 30, 2025, 02:43:37 AMWith Elgersma if he does come available this year what do we do on the roster? With Collaros as qb1, and Streveler as short yardage, how does Elgersma fit in with an already crowded qb room
Do we risk losing him on the pr? that could be fodder for years to come.
I could see him as a flyer with an eye to him being a magic unicorn and being the next Rourke in year 2 or 3. If it were to pan out it would be the perfect solution to Zach hitting 40.
It would appear we're trying really hard to find our next franchise QB without having to lure away a $600k guy from some other team in FA. The more bodies we throw at the problem, the more likely we are to hit paydirt.
When Shay fell to #6 we had to jump on him. Little disappointed that we didn't take Findlay at #15. Elgersma might actually a perfect fit for us in a couple of years. Can't wait for TC to start.
The QB room could end up with Collaros, Elgersma and Streveler and Patterson (very low $SMS hit even on IR) on the IR/PR, with Wilson being the odd man out, unless he shows really, really well in TC and takes Strevelers spot if he's still on the limp.
Glad that they chose Elgersma over Rourke. He might actually play in the CFL this year.
I like the mix, Shay could be a gooder with O'Shea coaching him. OLine was not a strength in this draft, and I think we are still OK in depth on that front, and another couple prospects in the pipe.
Blue Bombers 2025 CFL Draft summary
WINNIPEG, MB., April 29, 2025 – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers selected nine players in the 2025 CFL Draft held tonight.
The Club began the night with a trade with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, acquiring National running back Matthew Peterson (Alberta), the second pick in the first round of the Global Draft, and the 39th pick overall (5th round) in the CFL Draft. In exchange, Hamilton received National defensive lineman Kyle Samson, the eighth pick in the first round of the Global Draft, and the 36th overall selection in the CFL Draft (4th round).
With their first pick at 6th overall, the Club selected University of Wyoming linebacker Connor Shay.
Shay (6'2", 232, University of Wyoming; born Feb 2, 2002 in Danville, California), emerged as a key defensive player for the University of Wyoming Cowboys during the 2024 season. In his senior year, Shay started all 12 games at weak-side linebacker, amassing 76 total tackles (45 solo), 7.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and one interception.� Shay has accepted an invitation to participate in the Green Bay Packers' rookie minicamp. His Canadian heritage - through his father, Chuck Shay, who was born in Charlottetown, P.E.I. - have contributed to his eligibility for National status in the CFL.
With their second pick in the draft, 15th overall, Winnipeg selected North Texas linebacker Jaylen Smith.
Smith (6-0, 230, North Texas; born: March 1, 2002, in Hamilton, ON) appeared in 52 games from 2021 to 2024 with North Texas. Over that span, Smith recorded 160 tackles (75 solo, 85 assisted), two interceptions, 12.5 tackles-for-loss, four knockdowns and one forced fumble.
Smith started all 13 games as a senior in 2024, recording 106 tackles (44 solo, 62 assisted), one interception, 7.5 tackles-for-loss and three knockdowns. After the season, he was selected to the DCTF Second Team All-Texas and earned Third Team All-AAC honours. Smith finished the regular season third in the AAC in tackles while leading the team in tackles.
With their final pick of the second round, 18th overall, Winnipeg selected Wilfrid Laurier quarterback Taylor Elgersma.
Elgersma (6-5, 235, Wilfrid Laurier University; born: March 27, 2002, in London, ON) served as the starting quarterback for the Golden Hawks from 2022 to 2024. Over his collegiate career, he amassed over 10,000 passing yards and 76 touchdowns, culminating in a standout 2024 season where he led Laurier to an 8–0 regular-season record and a Yates Cup championship. Elgersma was honored with the Hec Crighton Trophy as U Sports football's most outstanding player, becoming the first Laurier quarterback to receive the award. �
In 2024, Elgersma completed 178 of 239 pass attempts (74.5% completion rate) for 2,643 yards with 20 touchdowns and nine interceptions. His performance in the Uteck Bowl set a bowl game record with 452 passing yards and five touchdowns, earning him the game's offensive MVP. Elgersma's achievements garnered attention from professional leagues; he was invited to the 2025 Senior Bowl, becoming only the second U Sports player to participate in the event. Although he went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, Elgersma received invitations to rookie minicamps with both the Green Bay Packers and Buffalo Bills.
In the third round, 27th overall, Winnipeg selected South Dakota State offensive lineman Ethan Vibert.
Vibert (6-4, 310, South Dakota State University; born: January 23, 2001, in Regina, SK) played 14 career games with the Jackrabbits over his four seasons with the team. He recorded 12 starts along the offensive line in his final season, contributing to a unit that allowed only eight sacks and amassed 3,542 rushing yards. Vibert received the Missouri Valley Football Conference Commissioner's Academic Excellence Award in 2023 and was named to the MVFC Honor Roll for five consecutive years (2019–2023). He also captained the 2018 Team Saskatchewan squad that won the Canada Cup championship.
In the fifth round, 39th overall, Winnipeg selected New Hampshire receiver, Joey Corcoran.
Corcoran (6-1, 208, University of New Hampshire; born: December 14, 2000, in Montreal, QC) played 36 career games over five seasons with the Wildcats. He recorded 126 receptions for 1,476 yards and eight touchdowns during his collegiate career, including a standout 2024 season with 39 catches for 459 yards and a career-high four touchdowns. Corcoran also led the team in punt return yards that season. A product of St. Paul's School in Concord, N.H., Corcoran was a two-sport athlete who contributed to back-to-back NEPSAC championships. After redshirting his first year at UNH, he became a consistent offensive threat over the next three seasons.
In the fifth round, 45th overall, Winnipeg selected University of Saskatchewan linebacker Lane Novak.
Novak (6-1, 229, University of Saskatchewan; born: May 21, 2002, in Balgonie, SK) played four seasons with the Huskies and in his senior year, he recorded 25 solo tackles, including two tackles for loss, one forced fumble, and one interception. Novak was recognized as the Huskies Football Rookie of the Year in 2020 and earned U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian honors in the 2020–2021 academic year. He also contributed to Team Saskatchewan's back-to-back Canada Cup championships in 2018 and 2019.
In the sixth round, 54th overall, Winnipeg selected University of Calgary defensive back Ethan Ball.
Ball (6-0, 190, University of Calgary; born: December 23, 2001, in Regina, SK) played four seasons with the North Dakota Fighting Hawks before transferring to the University of Calgary for his final collegiate year. Originally recruited as a wide receiver, Ball transitioned to defensive back at UND, where he appeared in all 12 games during both the 2022 and 2023 seasons, recording a combined 40 tackles. Ball joined the Dinos in 2024, recording three total tackles and recovering one fumble last season.
In the seventh round, 63rd overall, Winnipeg selected Eastern Michigan defensive lineman Trey Laing.
Laing (6-3, 243, Eastern Michigan University; born: October 2, 1999, in Tallahassee, FL) played 12 games for the Eagles in 2024, recording 22 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and one pass deflection. Laing's collegiate journey included stints at South Florida, Indiana, and Southern University before transferring to Eastern Michigan. His standout season at Southern in 2022 featured 38 tackles, 14.0 tackles for loss, 5.0 sacks, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery. At Eastern Michigan's 2025 Pro Day, Laing showcased his skills for scouts from seven NFL teams.
In the eighth round and with their final pick, 71st overall, Winnipeg selected University of Alberta offensive lineman Iwinosa Uwubanmwen.
Uwubanmwen (6-4, 290, University of Alberta; born: January 9, 2002, in Calgary, AB) is an offensive lineman entering his third year of eligibility with the Golden Bears. A graduate of Notre Dame High School in Calgary, Uwubanmwen has been a steady presence on Alberta's offensive front, contributing to the team's ground game and pass protection schemes.
Quote from: theaardvark on April 30, 2025, 04:59:10 AMI like the mix, Shay could be a gooder with O'Shea coaching him. OLine was not a strength in this draft, and I think we are still OK in depth on that front, and another couple prospects in the pipe.
To not draft a first-year-starting-capable OL must mean that they are happy to start Randolph at OG, and certain that Wallace will be starter-ready by mid- or next season.
Or they are really high on one of the 2 new drafted OL and think they have a 2nd year starter in one.
We haven't been paying as much attention to the OL in the draft (and FA) in 2 seasons now. Dobson was our last "good" draft, and Gray was the last "promised top-tier" draft. It really showed and hurt us last year with the lack of top-shelf OL talent, especially when injuries hit.
You would think making sure the OL is (very) good this year would be a high priority!
Quote from: TecnoGenius on April 30, 2025, 10:40:25 AMTo not draft a first-year-starting-capable OL must mean that they are happy to start Randolph at OG, and certain that Wallace will be starter-ready by mid- or next season.
Or they are really high on one of the 2 new drafted OL and think they have a 2nd year starter in one.
We haven't been paying as much attention to the OL in the draft (and FA) in 2 seasons now. Dobson was our last "good" draft, and Gray was the last "promised top-tier" draft. It really showed and hurt us last year with the lack of top-shelf OL talent, especially when injuries hit.
You would think making sure the OL is (very) good this year would be a high priority!
We haven't heard whether the 2 OL we drafted in 2024 will be back to compete in this TC. However, Randolph is still in the mix to start. My problem with that is that we lost 2 Canadian starters and he'd force another change in the ratio.
None of our draft choices look to be starters in 2025. The best 2 are not the positions where we'd normally start a Canadian and our import MLB and WIL choices are pretty good. It might mean we won't need an import LB as a DI in 2026 which would be an advantage.
For the most part I like this group. Bombers filled some needs. Really like our three LBs. All have good size, speed and are physical. Uwubanmwen will head back to school after TC. Laing and Bailey will be interesting to watch at TC. Just wish we had taken Findlay when we had the chance. This kid is going to be an excellent safety.
This is impressive:
" Vibert received the Missouri Valley Football Conference Commissioner's Academic Excellence Award in 2023 and was named to the MVFC Honor Roll for five consecutive years (2019–2023). "
1. Ok, now that the draft is done, will we be signing a player or 2 that wasn't drafted? Jackson Tachinski has been mentioned recently as player with future potential. He's been to our last couple of TC's and depth at receiver is somewhat open.
He could be a player that could continue to develop on our PR. IMO he's an interesting player.
2. With TC not far away we're going to see a few more signings from tryout camps. A few previously signed rookies may be deleted. I'm not expecting any retirements but it's a now or never as reality of TC looks.
3. We signed 4 Canadians as free agents and we traded for one yesterday while sending Samson to Hamilton. Add in 9 draft picks and things are going to be interesting.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 30, 2025, 03:19:57 PM1. Ok, now that the draft is done, will we be signing a player or 2 that wasn't drafted? Jackson Tachinski has been mentioned recently as player with future potential. He's been to our last couple of TC's and depth at receiver is somewhat open.
He could be a player that could continue to develop on our PR. IMO he's an interesting player.
2. With TC not far away we're going to see a few more signings from tryout camps. A few previously signed rookies may be deleted. I'm not expecting any retirements but it's a now or never as reality of TC looks.
3. We signed 4 Canadians as free agents and we traded for one yesterday while sending Samson to Hamilton. Add in 9 draft picks and things are going to be interesting.
With his hype, I was surprised Tachinsky didn't get a late round pick, especially since he's not worried about doing the Sinopoli path, but is ready to transition now. I expect to see him in our rookie minicamp if he doesn't sign elsewhere for a look, and maybe a PR spot is he impresses.
Elgersma, "the London, Ont., native will be attending the Green Bay Packers rookie minicamp from May 2 to 4 followed by the Buffalo Bills rookie minicamp from May 9 to 11."
This means he misses rookie camp and the beginning of our main camp. If he does sign with us he would be missing out on a lot early.
I'll admit I don't know a lot about these guys but LB was an area of needed. Hopefully the Cdn WR pans out out we need more of those.
That Shay kid was highly regarded by the TSN experts.
Quote from: Pigskin on April 30, 2025, 01:51:38 PMJust wish we had taken Findlay when we had the chance. This kid is going to be an excellent safety.
Is he a Dequoy-style that seems to be so effective now, or a Loffler style?
I really want to have our FS be like MTL's; however, Mafia seems to like their beefier hard-hitters and their run help. If Findlay=Dequoy, could be why we didn't take him.
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on April 30, 2025, 11:01:05 PMI'll admit I don't know a lot about these guys but LB was an area of needed.
I love Cadwall and I hope the new top-shelf LBers make him push to be better than "just a STer".
Quote from: TecnoGenius on April 30, 2025, 03:38:48 AMSorta kinda not really. Not in the CFL. You have to be able to run & cover that inside slot, who is often the most targeted REC. Just look at Kramdi, who isn't exactly a beefy giant.
Our best SAMs always looked more like a DB than a LBer. However, more beef can help with the run D.
Didn't say that he had to be beefy, just that a SAM in college is listed as a linebacker and when drafted can be listed as a linebacker.
Quote from: Waffler on April 30, 2025, 09:59:38 PMElgersma, "the London, Ont., native will be attending the Green Bay Packers rookie minicamp from May 2 to 4 followed by the Buffalo Bills rookie minicamp from May 9 to 11."
This means he misses rookie camp and the beginning of our main camp. If he does sign with us he would be missing out on a lot early.
Ya, he didn't get drafted in the NFL draft so he's a major long shot to make either GB or Buffalo. Heck if Nathan Rourke couldn't make it after lighting it up for a year in the CFL, this guy has zero chance , but if he doesn't try it he'll always regret not getting the 'NFL experience'. I saw him in last year's Vanier Cup and I thought he was a disappointment and was clearly outplayed by the Laval Qb, so sure he won the Hec Creighton, but he didn't light it up in the big game. I don't think he makes it in either the CFL or the NFL a big nothing burger here.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on May 01, 2025, 12:14:48 AMIs he a Dequoy-style that seems to be so effective now, or a Loffler style?
I really want to have our FS be like MTL's; however, Mafia seems to like their beefier hard-hitters and their run help. If Findlay=Dequoy, could be why we didn't take him.
He's more of a Dequoy type, but he can also play Dhalf and SLB.
Didn't see this posted anywhere else, Kyle Walters draft day presser.
Anyone ever heard of Matt Gulakow before? Only 5 guys in the room on draft day, Miller, Walters, O'Shea, Darren Cameron and the bald guy Matt Gulakow.
Turns out he's been around for awhile.
"Matt Gulakow is entering his 11th year with the the Bombers in 2025 and fifth as the club's Director of Football Operations. This season will also see him play a greater role in the club's preparation for the CFL Draft."
I've seen the bald guy around, but I have no idea what he does.
What shocked me was we had neither Hall nor Younger in the draft war room? Strange since we usually draft more D than O.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on May 03, 2025, 12:28:48 AMI've seen the bald guy around, but I have no idea what he does.
What shocked me was we had neither Hall nor Younger in the draft war room? Strange since we usually draft more D than O.
They coach the players, they don't pick them.
Deslaurier seemed to have a big voice in the room.
A couple of our draft choices will miss the start of TC while attending NFL mini camps. It's possible the get UDFA deals which will delay their arrival. We'll have to wait and see if that happens with Shay and Elgersma.
Quote from: Blue In BC on May 03, 2025, 03:20:16 PMA couple of our draft choices will miss the start of TC while attending NFL mini camps. It's possible the get UDFA deals which will delay their arrival. We'll have to wait and see if that happens with Shay and Elgersma.
QB Elgersma would be real smart not to delay his arrival at Bomber TC, he should have a clear understanding of his path to success in the world of football, and he needs to step in at the ground floor. If Nathan Rourke couldn't make the NFL work after a year of pro experience in the CFL, I don't like the odds of any other CDN QB's finding NFL succeess in their rookie years.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 03, 2025, 04:41:47 PMQB Elgersma would be real smart not to delay his arrival at Bomber TC, he should have a clear understanding of his path to success in the world of football, and he needs to step in at the ground floor. If Nathan Rourke couldn't make the NFL work after a year of pro experience in the CFL, I don't like the odds of any other CDN QB's finding NFL succeess in their rookie years.
True but he's not going to see the field much if at all in 2025. He'll be learning from Collaros and Streveler while sitting on the PR? I think he'll only miss a week or so of the main TC. That's an issue for most rookies but I think it's safe to say the Bombers will be keeping him.
Quote from: Blue In BC on May 03, 2025, 05:11:30 PMTrue but he's not going to see the field much if at all in 2025. He'll be learning from Collaros and Streveler while sitting on the PR? I think he'll only miss a week or so of the main TC. That's an issue for most rookies but I think it's safe to say the Bombers will be keeping him.
Depends on his attitude, he could waste an entire year waiting for something to materialize like Ford did.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 03, 2025, 05:17:23 PMDepends on his attitude, he could waste an entire year waiting for something to materialize like Ford did.
If he shuffles from PR to PR that wouldn't be the worst thing. He'd gain some experience and would still be Bomber property when he returns to Canada. It would solve the issue of where we put him in 2025. He wouldn't be on an NFL option deal so he wouldn't be running down the clock on an existing contract.
I doubt he is going to see much activity in the NFL mini camp. There is always a bunch of QB's that were drafted and signed to UDFA deals. Mini camp is bottom rung when they need extra arms to work out receivers IMO.
Quote from: Jesse on May 03, 2025, 06:07:42 AMThey coach the players, they don't pick them.
You could say that about MOS too, though. And he was in the room. (Ya, matter of degrees.)
I'm sure Hogan/Jarius and Younger/Hall submit little preference lists to the Mafia before the actual draft, so at least they have a little input.
Interesting comments from Walters about the change to the non counters application. They won't bring in the OL we drafted this year as a result and will wait until 2026. It's the same reason they won't bring in the 2 OL we drafted last year.
It's counter productive for late round draft choices.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on May 04, 2025, 05:25:51 AMYou could say that about MOS too, though. And he was in the room. (Ya, matter of degrees.)
I'm sure Hogan/Jarius and Younger/Hall submit little preference lists to the Mafia before the actual draft, so at least they have a little input.
Of course, MOS was there. He didn't really seem like he was a big part of the process though.
I don't know how much time most coaches will spend watching film of draft prospects. I wouldn't be surprised if they didn't at all.
One thing I don't notice anyone talking about is that the Rourkes were NCAA trained in 4 down ball, and Elgersma is USports trained in 3 down ball.
Coaches may have a different development path to consider for Elgersma than the Rourkes. Does he adapt quickly and easily to 4 down narrow field no waggle ball? Does playing 3 down make 4 down easier?
Green Bay coach was commenting on his "live arm", and he seems to be getting some attention, I'm not sure how much the NCAA / USports training differs in the adaptation to the NFL game.
Yes, if he's going to be on our roster, we want him here ASAP, but any time he gets with NFL coaches is free upgrades and good experience. Its not like we need to coach him up to play the Season Opener, we have plenty of time for development, and running out his NFL time will be good for him as a player and a person.
Quote from: Jesse on May 04, 2025, 02:33:10 PMOf course, MOS was there. He didn't really seem like he was a big part of the process though.
I don't know how much time most coaches will spend watching film of draft prospects. I wouldn't be surprised if they didn't at all.
I don't doubt the coaches watched film on the players Walters was interested in, and gave their opinions. Not sure how much they were involved in the interviews as well. But their thoughts would have been fully documented before draft day, so their roles in the war room would be near zero.
The warroom is where the management makes decisions based on who is left after the rest of the league has made their choices. MOS might be the swing vote in a few instances, but they will have had their board done, and the picks should already be made.
The only changes I can see is when Shay unexpectedly falls to them, now later LB's might drop down the list in favour of a different position. And when Elgersma is still there at your free pick, does he beat out taking a position player. And I don't see coordinators or position coaches doing anything there but adding confusing voices to the discussion.
Quote from: theaardvark on May 04, 2025, 02:47:57 PMOne thing I don't notice anyone talking about is that the Rourkes were NCAA trained in 4 down ball, and Elgersma is USports trained in 3 down ball.
Coaches may have a different development path to consider for Elgersma than the Rourkes. Does he adapt quickly and easily to 4 down narrow field no waggle ball? Does playing 3 down make 4 down easier?
Green Bay coach was commenting on his "live arm", and he seems to be getting some attention, I'm not sure how much the NCAA / USports training differs in the adaptation to the NFL game.
Yes, if he's going to be on our roster, we want him here ASAP, but any time he gets with NFL coaches is free upgrades and good experience. Its not like we need to coach him up to play the Season Opener, we have plenty of time for development, and running out his NFL time will be good for him as a player and a person.
I don't doubt the coaches watched film on the players Walters was interested in, and gave their opinions. Not sure how much they were involved in the interviews as well. But their thoughts would have been fully documented before draft day, so their roles in the war room would be near zero.
The warroom is where the management makes decisions based on who is left after the rest of the league has made their choices. MOS might be the swing vote in a few instances, but they will have had their board done, and the picks should already be made.
The only changes I can see is when Shay unexpectedly falls to them, now later LB's might drop down the list in favour of a different position. And when Elgersma is still there at your free pick, does he beat out taking a position player. And I don't see coordinators or position coaches doing anything there but adding confusing voices to the discussion.
The fewer voices in the room the better, they're already familiar with the prospects and know the order they will select them in when their turn comes up, drafting the player is the final step after a lot of time and discussion has been invested in the process.
As for the Coach's input, I think MOS is very particular about the type of players he's interested in and probably puts more time into the review of Natl. talent than any other HC. With the help of the coordinators and scouts he comes up with a wish list of attitudes, abilities and body-types they're looking for and takes that input with him into meetings with Walters, Miller, Cameron and Gulakow, who's role may be limited to being an administrator or secretary.
Quote from: ModAdmin on April 29, 2025, 03:19:02 PMBlue Bombers agree to trade with Hamilton Tiger-Cats
WINNIPEG, MB., April 29, 2025 – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has acquired National running back Matthew Peterson (Alberta), the second pick in the first round of today's Global Draft, and the 39th pick overall (5th round) in the CFL Draft from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
In exchange, Hamilton receives National defensive lineman Kyle Samson, the eighth pick in the first round of the Global Draft, and the 36th overall selection in the CFL Draft (4th round).
So essentially a 2nd for a 4th, a 8th overall in the global for 2nd in the global, and moving down three spots in the fourth round. I know the draft is a crapshoot at times but yikes that's not great value.
Quote from: kkc60 on May 07, 2025, 01:48:29 PMSo essentially a 2nd for a 4th, a 8th overall in the global for 2nd in the global, and moving down three spots in the fourth round. I know the draft is a crapshoot at times but yikes that's not great value.
A decision based on a change of positional depth. Improving one area and reducing one where we had too many bodies.
Quote from: kkc60 on May 07, 2025, 01:48:29 PMSo essentially a 2nd for a 4th, a 8th overall in the global for 2nd in the global, and moving down three spots in the fourth round. I know the draft is a crapshoot at times but yikes that's not great value.
I think KW addressed this in the recent interviews. There was a GLOB we really wanted who would have been gone by our normal pick came up.
https://x.com/TSNDaveNaylor/status/1920201518373834818
Naylor posting that Green Bay has offered a contract to Elgersma.
Should be official tomorrow and then he won't attend the Bills tryout.