Blue Bombers Forum

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
Bryce Perkins  QB  A  signed Nov 25 2025    2026  2027
Payton Thorne  QB  A  signed Dec 23 2025    2026  2027  2028
                   
Brady Oliveira -20  RB  N  extended Dec 15 2025    2026  2027  2028    $290,000
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  extended Dec 18 2025    2026  2027    $240,000
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
Ontaria Wilson -80  WR  A extended Dec 9 2025    2026  2027
Tyrone Davis  WR  A  signed Nov 17 2025    2026  2027
Kenneth Womack  WR  A  signed Nov 17 2025    2026  2027
Bryce Kirtz  WR  A  signed Nov 17 2025    2026  2027
Jahmal Banks  WR  A  signed Dec 31 2025    2026  2027
Gerald Monroe  WR  A  signed Dec 31 2025    2026  2027  2028

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   
Asotui Eli -65      OL  N  extended Dec 30 2025    2026  2027
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
Ben Dooley -57 OL A  signed Nov 17 2025    2026  2027
Hunter Poncius -58  OL  A  signed Nov 17 2025    2026  2027
Zovon Lindsay  OL  A  signed Nov 17 2025    2026  2027
Sebastian Pares  OL  A  signed Nov 17 2025    2026  2027
Michael Williams  OL  A  signed Nov 17 2025    2026  2027
Tairiq Stewart  OL  A  signed Dec 8 2025    2026  2027
Joe More  OL  A  signed Dec 8 2025    2026  2027  2028
Tyler Elsbury  OL  A  signed Dec 8 2025    2026  2027  2028

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
               
Willie Jefferson -5    DE  A    extended Jan 12 2025
Tanner Schmekel -96    DT  N  extended Jan 5 2026    2026
Jamal Woods -91  DT  A  signed Nov 28 2023
Cameron Lawson -99    DT  N  extended Dec 10 2025    2026  2027
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
De'Shaan Dixon -90  DE  A  signed Nov 17 2025    2026  2027
Arnold Young  DL  A signed Dec4 2025    2026  2027

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
Johnny Hodges  LB  A  signed Nov 29 2025    2026  2027
             
Deatrick Nichols -1    DB  A  extended Dec 18 2025    2026
Nick Hallett -21    DB  N  re-signed Feb 1 2024
Redha Kramdi -6    DB  N  extended Dec 16 2025    2026  2027
Evan Holm -31    DB  A  extended Jan 6 2026     2026   2027
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   
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
Alijah McGhee  DB  A  signed Nov 17 2025    2026
Michael Dixon  DB  A  signed Nov 17 2025    2026  2027
Javaris Davis  DB  A  signed Nov 29 2025    2026  2027
Cam McCutcheon  DB  A  signed Dec 31 2025    2026  2027

BOLD - pending free agent

Signings not announced by the team:
2025-11-27  WPG  UWUBANMWEN, Iwinosa  OL  N  Alberta  ADD  Active Roster

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
Jake Thomas -95    DT  N  extended Jan 16 2025  named DL coach Dec 22 2025
Jamal Parker -7  DB  A  extended Jan 10 2025 released Dec 23 2025
Cam Echols -15  WR A signed Aug 25 2025 released Dec 23 2025
Chris Kolankowski -67    OL  N    re-signed Jan 29 2024 (pending FA), released Jan 5 2026

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 

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

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

Quarterback

Chris Streveler (A)

Running back

Brady Oliveira (N)  extended Dec 15 2025 (3 years)

Fullback

None

Receiver

Kody Case (A)
Nic Demski (N)  extended Dec 18 2025 (2 years)
Dillon Mitchell (A)
Dalton Schoen (A)
Jerreth Sterns (A)
Keric Wheatfall (A)

Offensive line

Stanley Bryant (A)
Tui Eli (N)  extended Dec 30 2025 (2 years)
Chris Kolankowski (N)  released Jan 5 2026
Eric Lofton (A)
Patrick Neufeld (N)

Defensive line

Willie Jefferson (A)
Cameron Lawson (N)  extended Dec 10 2025 (2 years)
Tanner Schmekel (N)  extended Jan 5 2026 (1 year)
Jake Thomas (N)  named DL coach Dec 22 2025
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)  extended Jan 6 2025 (2 years)
Demerio Houston (A)
Redha Kramdi (N)  extended Dec 16 2025 (2 years)
Enock Makonzo (N)
Deatrick Nichols (A)  extended Dec 18 2025 (1 year)
Jamal Parker (A)  released Dec 23 2025

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/

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

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

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/

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.

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/

Transactions:

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

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/

Transactions:

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

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/

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.

Transactions:

2025-11-17   WPG   Kirtz, Bryce   WR   A   Northwestern   TRF TO ACTIVE ROSTER   Active Roster
2025-11-17   WPG   DIXON, De'Shaan   DE   A   Norfolk State   TRF TO ACTIVE ROSTER   Active Roster
2025-11-17   WPG   DOOLEY, Ben   OL   A   Boise State   TRF TO ACTIVE ROSTER   Active Roster
2025-11-17   WPG   PONCIUS, Hunter   OL   A   North Dakota State   TRF TO ACTIVE ROSTER   Active Roster
2025-11-17   WPG   Williams, Michael (Bucky)   OL   A   Appalachian State   TRF TO ACTIVE ROSTER   Active Roster
2025-11-17   WPG   MCGHEE, Alijah   DB   A   Minnesota State Mankato   TRF TO ACTIVE ROSTER   Active Roster
2025-11-17   WPG   Womack, Kenneth   WR   A   Western Michigan   TRF TO ACTIVE ROSTER   Active Roster
2025-11-17   WPG   Pares, Sebastian   OL   A   Eastern Illinois   TRF TO ACTIVE ROSTER   Active Roster
2025-11-17   WPG   Lindsay, Zovon   OL   A   Coastal Carolina   TRF TO ACTIVE ROSTER   Active Roster
2025-11-17   WPG   Dixon, Michael   DB   A   Rutgers   TRF TO ACTIVE ROSTER   Active Roster
2025-11-17   WPG   Davis, Tyrone   WR   A   Nebraska (Kearney)   TRF TO ACTIVE ROSTER   Active Roster

Kenneth Womack is a new signing. The others were previously signed to future contracts.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign eight, including former Redblacks DB Alijah McGhee
By 3Down Staff -November 18, 2025

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have signed American defensive back Alijah McGhee following a three-year stint with the Ottawa Redblacks.

The six-foot-two, 195-pound native of Warner Robins, Ga. played six regular-season games with the Redblacks in 2025, recording 22 defensive tackles, three special teams tackles, one interception, and one touchdown. He made four starts at field-side cornerback and one start at boundary cornerback.

The 26-year-old has played 19 regular-season games since joining the Redblacks in 2023, making 72 defensive tackles, three special teams tackles, four interceptions, two forced fumbles, and one touchdown. He was released by Ottawa in August.

The Blue Bombers have signed seven other American players, including receivers Tyrone 'T.J.' Davis, Bryce Kirtz, and Kenneth Womack, offensive linemen Zovon Lindsay, Sebastian Pares, and Michael 'Bucky' Williams, and defensive back Michael 'Flip' Dixon.

Davis made 70 catches for 904 yards and 26 touchdowns with the Green Bay Blizzard of the Indoor Football League (IFL) as a rookie in 2025, earning a second-team All-IFL selection and an IFL All-Rookie selection.

The six-foot-three, 180-pound native of Colorado Springs, Co. played quarterback at the University of Nebraska–Kearney, an NCAA Division II program, where he threw for 6,525 yards, 61 touchdowns, and 28 interceptions, and rushed for 4,361 yards and 61 scores. He was twice named the MIAA Offensive Player of the Year, a two-time AFCA All-American, and a two-time finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy.

Kirtz played five collegiate seasons at Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill. where he made 132 receptions for 1,781 yards and five touchdowns. The six-foot, 195-pound native of Brownsburg, Ind. had his best season in 2023 when he caught 49 passes for 701 yards and all five of his career scores.

Womack started his collegiate career at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Conn., where he made 98 receptions for 1,234 yards and five touchdowns. The six-foot, 195-pound native of Upper Marlboro, Md. transferred to Western Michigan University in 2023 and spent two years with the team, making 115 catches for 1,236 yards and two scores to earn one first-team All-MAC selection.

Lindsay played five collegiate seasons at North Carolina State University and Coastal Carolina University, dressing for 39 total games. The six-foot-four, 300-pound native of Fayetteville, N.C. played primarily right tackle.

Pares split his collegiate career between the University of Sioux Falls and Eastern Illinois University. The six-foot-six, 310-pound native of Joliet, Ill. played a total of 43 collegiate games and was named second-team All-Conference in 2023.

Williams played 61 collegiate games at Austin Peay State University and Appalachian State University, earning a first-team All-Sun Belt selection and second-team FCS All-American selection. The six-foot-three, 300-pound native of Ringgold, Ga. has since had stints with the Los Angeles Chargers and Cleveland Browns, though he didn't see any regular-season action with either team.

Dixon played five collegiate seasons at the University of Minnesota and Rutgers University. The six-foot-two, 210-pound native of Statesboro, Ga. recorded 173 defensive tackles, five tackles for loss, 17 pass knockdowns, four interceptions, one forced fumble, and one blocked punt.

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers finished fourth in the West Division standings in 2025 with a 10-8 record, qualifying for the playoffs as the crossover team before losing the East Semi-Final to the Montreal Alouettes. Zach Collaros threw for 3,048 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions over 13 regular-season games, going 6-7 as a starter.

The Blue Bombers ranked fifth in net offence, third in net defence, and eighth with a turnover differential of minus-eleven. The club's leading rusher was Brady Oliveira with 1,163 yards, leading receiver was Nic Demski with 1,001 yards, and leading tackler was Tony Jones with 104 tackles. Winnipeg ranked first in attendance with average crowds of 32,343, which was a 3.7 percent increase from the previous year.

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/18/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-eight-including-former-redblacks-db-alijah-mcghee/

Signings not listed are Hunter Poncius, Ben Dooley, and De'Shaan Dixon. They ended the season on the practice roster then were signed to future contracts.

Blue Bombers add to roster

WINNIPEG, MB., November 18, 2025 –  The Winnipeg Blue Bombers announce the team has signed American defensive back Michael (Flip) Dixon, and American receiver Bryce Kirtz.

Dixon (6-2, 210, Rutgers; born: January 16, 2002 in Statesboro, GA.) joins the Blue Bombers after a five-year collegiate career with Minnesota and Rutgers.

At Minnesota (2020-2022), he totalled 45 tackles (27 solo, 18 assisted), one interception, 1.5 tackles-for-loss and four passes defended in 30 games (six starts).

Dixon transferred to Rutgers for the 2023 and 2024 seasons, where he totaled 138 tackles (84 solo, 54 assisted), 3.5 tackles for loss, 13 pass breakups, three interceptions, one forced fumble, and one blocked punt while starting all 25 games. He has earned Academic All-Big Ten honours from 2021 to 2024.

Kirtz (6-0, 195, Northwestern; born: April 27, 2000, in Brownsburg, IN.) signs on after a five-year collegiate career at Northwestern University (2020-2024).

Kirtz appeared in 47 games from 2020 to 2024, finishing with 132 receptions for 1,781 yards and five touchdowns. He added two rushing attempts for seven yards and served as a team captain in his final season.

Kirtz's breakout year came in 2023 when he led the Wildcats with 49 catches for 701 yards and five touchdowns, including a career-best 215-yard performance against Minnesota. In 2024, he followed with 39 receptions for 598 yards, averaging 15.3 yards per catch.

Transactions:

2025-11-21   WPG   Hodges, Johnny   LB   A   Texas Christian   ADD   Active Roster

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign linebacker Johnny Hodges
November 21, 2025 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed linebacker Johnny Hodges on Friday according to the CFL Transactions page.

Johnny Hodges is six foot and weighs 237 pounds. A native of Darnestown, Maryland, Hodges attended the Los Angeles Chargers rookie minicamp in 2025.

Collegiately, Hodges was a lacrosse player at the Navy in 2019, where he played one game, causing a turnover in a 19-3 win over Furman. Then, he played football (2020-21) with 63 tackles (27 solos, 36 assists), three tackles for loss, one sack, one interception, five passes defended, one forced fumble, and one kick return for 12 yards in 16 games for the Midshipmen.

Then, he transferred to TCU (2022-24) with 204 tackles (107 solos, 97 assists), 18 tackles for loss, five sacks, and one pass breakup in 31 games for the Horned Frogs. In 2024, he had a career-high 89 tackles (47 solos, 42 assists), 4.5 tackles for loss, and one sack in 13 games. Hodges was named an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention.

In 2022, Hodges made 87 tackles (45 solos, 42 assists), 9.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and one pass defended in 14 games, helping TCU win the Fiesta Bowl over Michigan before losing to Georgia in the CFP Playoff National Championship. In the Fiesta Bowl, Hodges made five tackles (3 solos, 2 assists) and one tackle for loss.

Hodges was named the Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year, Second Team All-Big 12, and Second Team All-Big 12 by the Associated Press.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2025/11/21/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-linebacker-johnny-hodges/

Blue Bombers add quarterback
November 25, 2025

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the team has signed American quarterback Bryce Perkins.

Perkins (6-2, 215, Virginia; born: December 20, 1996, in Chandler, AZ.) signs a futures contract with the Blue Bombers after three seasons in the NFL (2021-2022, 2025), two in the UFL (2024-2025), and a four-year collegiate career split between Arizona State (2015-2016), and Virginia (2018-2019).

Perkins signed with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2020 and was a part of the Super Bowl LVI winning squad in 2021. Perkins appeared in five games with one start, where he completed 13 passes on 23 attempts, threw one touchdown, and rushed nine times for 44 yards in a 26-10 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Perkins signed briefly with the Carolina Panthers in August 2025 but was released shortly after.

His 2025 UFL season with the Michigan Panthers saw him completing 109 passes for 1,342 yards and nine touchdowns, while rushing for 269 yards on 47 tries for five touchdowns in six starts. After the season, Perkins was awarded UFL MVP and UFL Offensive Player of the Year and led the league in yards-per-attempt (8.5), and passer rating (108.7).

A native of Chandler, Arizona, Perkins played college football at Arizona State and Virginia. At Virginia, he set the school record for single-season total offense with 3,603 yards and 34 touchdowns in 2018 and followed with 3,540 total yards and 33 touchdowns in 2019.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/11/25/blue-bombers-add-quarterback/

Transactions:

2025-11-25   WPG   Davis, Javaris   DB   A   Auburn   ADD   Active Roster
2025-11-25   WPG   PERKINS, Bryce   QB   A   Virginia   ADD   Active Roster

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign former UFL MVP quarterback Bryce Perkins
November 25, 2025 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed quarterback Bryce Perkins on Tuesday.

Bryce Perkins is six foot three and weighs 214 pounds. The 28-year-old from Queen Creek, Arizona, re-signed with the Michigan Panthers on August 26, 2024. In 2025, he completed 109 of 158 passes (69%) for 1,342 yards, nine touchdowns, two interceptions, 47 carries for 269 yards, and five touchdowns in seven games.

In the playoffs, Perkins completed 41 of 60 passes (68.3%) for 576 yards, five touchdowns, one interception, 12 carries for 42 yards, and one rushing touchdown in two games, leading the Panthers to appear in the UFL Championship Game against the D.C. Defenders.

Perkins was named the UFL MVP, Offensive Player of the Year, and the All-UFL Team in 2025. He also earned the UFL's Pizza Hut Offensive Player of the Week honor three times.

The Michigan Panthers released Perkins on August 17, 2025, and he signed with the Carolina Panthers on August 18, 2025. He played one preseason game, completing 10 of 11 passes (90.9%) for 71 yards, and two carries for 28 yards. The Panthers released him on August 25, 2025.

The Los Angeles Rams signed Perkins as an undrafted free agent on April 30, 2020. In 2021, he completed 56 of 91 passes (61.5%) for 451 yards, three touchdowns, one interception, and 22 carries for 114 yards in three preseason games. He was on the practice squad when the Rams won the Super Bowl in 2021. In 2022, Perkins played five games for the Rams, completing 19 of 34 passes (55.9%) for 161 yards, one touchdown, two interceptions, and one carry for 19 yards.

The Michigan Panthers signed Perkins on April 24, 2024. In 2024, he completed 30 of 38 passes (79%) for 343 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception, 20 carries for 180 yards, and 2 touchdowns in 4 games.

Collegiately, Perkins started at Arizona State (2015-16) but redshirted his freshman year and missed the 2016 season with a broken neck. Next, He transferred to Arizona Western Community College in 2017, completing 114 of 180 passes (63.3%) for 1,311 yards, 7 touchdowns, 8 interceptions, 69 carries for 353 yards, and four touchdowns in 10 games for the Matadors.

Then, Perkins transferred to Virginia (2018-19), completing 545 of 845 passes (64.5%) for 6,218 yards, 47 touchdowns, 21 interceptions, 439 carries for 2,235 yards, and 20 touchdowns in 27 games for the Cavaliers. In 2019, Perkins set the UVA single-season passing record with 3,538 yards.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2025/11/25/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-former-ufl-mvp-quarterback-bryce-perkins/

Winnipeg Blue Bombers re-sign defensive back Javaris Davis
November 25, 2025 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers re-signed defensive back Javaris Davis on Tuesday according to the CFL Transactions page.

Javaris Davis is five foot ten and weighs 186 pounds. The 28-year-old from Jacksonville, Florida, signed with the Jacksonville Sharks on January 15, 2025. Shortly after signing with them, he signed with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on February 18, 2025.

The Blue Bombers placed Davis on the league suspension list as he returned to Jacksonville. In 2025, Davis made 53 tackles (32 solos, 21 assists), one tackle for loss, two interceptions for 40 yards, four pass breakups, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries in 10 games.

The Orlando Guardians drafted Davis in the second round (16th pick) of Phase 2 of the 2023 XFL Draft. In 2023, he played one game for the Guardians with no stats.

The Guardians released him on March 15, 2023. Next, the Arlington Renegades signed Davis on March 28, 2023. Davis played two games with one tackle (1 solo) when the Renegades won the XFL Championship over the D.C. Defenders. He became a free agent after the 2023 season. Davis did not play football in 2024.

The Kansas City Chiefs signed Davis as an undrafted free agent on April 30, 2020. He also spent time with the Miami Dolphins and the Cincinnati Bengals. Davis played one regular-season game for Miami with two tackles (2 solos).

Collegiately, Davis played four seasons at Auburn (2016-19) with 147 tackles (115 solos, 35 assists), 11 tackles for loss, two sacks, eight interceptions for 133 yards, one touchdown, one forced fumble, 27 pass breakups, and one kick return for 29 yards in 49 games for the Tigers.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2025/11/25/winnipeg-blue-bombers-re-sign-defensive-back-javaris-davis/

Transactions:

2025-11-27   WPG   UWUBANMWEN, Iwinosa   OL   N   Alberta   ADD   Active Roster

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign offensive lineman Iwinosa Uwubanmwen
November 27, 2025 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed offensive lineman Iwinosa Uwubanmwen on Thursday according to the CFL Transactions page.

Iwinosa Uwubanmwen is six foot four and weighs 300 pounds. The 23-year-old from Calgary, Alberta, was drafted by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the eighth round (71st pick) of the 2025 CFL Draft. He missed training camp due to an injury and headed back to Alberta for his final collegiate season.

Collegiately, Uwubanmwen spent seven seasons at the University of Alberta (2019-25), playing left tackle in 25 games for the Golden Bears. In 2025, he played left tackle in six games. Alberta's offense averaged 22.50 points per game, 299.13 passing yards per game, 107.6 rushing yards per game, 391.5 total yards per game, 22 touchdowns, and allowed 14 sacks, finishing the season with a 1-8 record.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2025/11/27/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-offensive-lineman-iwinosa-uwubanmwen/

1st & 10 | The Blue Bombers Pending Free Agent List
November 28, 2025  Ed Tait  @EdTaitWFC

There's a long offseason to-do list for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to attack — some of it already well underway — including solidifying Mike O'Shea's coaching staff and the scouting department alongside GM Kyle Walters, to planning for the here and now and life beyond the 2026 Canadian Football League season.

And while getting after all that there's also a long list of pending free agents — some 35 names in total — on which decisions will be made before the communication window opens on February 1st at 11 a.m. and runs to February 8th before the market opens on February 10th.

The Blue Bombers are at a crossroads organizationally, having cranked out nine consecutive double-digit win seasons but coming off a 10-8 season in which they finished fourth in the West Division and lost in the opening round of the Grey Cup playoffs after making five consecutive championship game appearances. It is a roster still greying around the edges but having already introduced some talented fresh faces into the lineup over the last two years.

The club's pending free agent list is a reflection of that as it features a collection of future hall of famers, solid starters, emerging talents and, yes, some question marks.

The CFL's entire list of pending free agents can be found here:

    Official 2026 Free Agent Tracker

And let's take a deeper dive into that list in this week's edition of 1st & 10...

STARTERS

Canadians

RB Brady Oliveira

This will likely be expensive for the Blue Bombers but is still an absolute must. He's a hometown hero, a former CFL Most Outstanding Player, a two-time CFL Most Outstanding Canadian and a player who has rushed for 1,000 yards in four consecutive seasons. He also set a career high in receiving numbers in 2025 with 61 catches for 546 yards. Oh, at just age 28 he's already sixth in franchise history for career rushing yards.

SB Nic Demski

Posted his third straight 1K season, despite missing two games and while working in an offence that struggled to find consistency. He'll be 32 in December but playing the best ball of his career and it would be almost criminal to see another hometown guy in different colours.

Dime Redha Kramdi

Widely regarded as the QB on defence, Kramdi can play the difficult dime spot that requires pass coverage skills and the ability to step up and stuff the run and, also, the safety position. He's still just 28 and an integral part of the defence.

Right guard Pat Neufeld

Still steady at 36 and one of the important leaders in the locker room. The club did draft Ethan Vibert in 2025, and he could be Neufeld's heir apparent, but that would be categorized as 'still TBD.'

Centre Chris Kolankowski

A grinder in the middle of the O-line who is now 33 and has had Tui Eli breathing down his neck for a few seasons. The dilemma for management is balancing the desire for continuity up front vs. the need to continually draft, develop and play Canadians along the O-line.

Defensive tackle Jake Thomas

He's 34 now and coming off a season in which he had nine tackles and no sacks for the first time in his career since 2016. His value as a leader is unquestioned, but the club also has an emerging Canadian talent who needs more snaps behind him in Cam Lawson.

Americans

DB Evan Holm

Just completed the best season of his career, one in which he was named a CFL All-Star and the Blue Bombers Most Outstanding Defensive Player

LT Stanley Bryant

The birth certificate doesn't lie: the big man turns 40 next May. There's also this: he was just named the team's top O-lineman for an eighth time and selected to the CFLPA All-Star team. The scouts keep bringing in import tackles to challenge him and be ready as his replacement and yet he still mans the left flank because he's still so freaking solid.

DB Deatrick Nichols

We've all come to appreciate how solid he is as a halfback over the last few years. What's underrated is how much of a leader he has become not only on the Blue Bombers defence, but for the entire squad.

DE Willie Jefferson

His sack totals have dipped over the last three years from 11 to six to three this past season. He's still a force in knocking down passes and those sack totals are down partly because of a defensive philosophy that often rushes just three and drops the rest into coverage. Jefferson is THE most vocal leader in the room and one of the team's most popular players – two parts of his resumé that do have value.

LB Kyrie Wilson

Quietly steady, Wilson played a full season for the first time since 2019. He did turn 33 this month and there options already on the roster to potentially replace him in Michael Ayers and Canadian Connor Shay but the coaching staff does love his skillset.

WR Jerreth Sterns

Posted the best numbers of his three-year career this season with 48 catches for 530 yards and four TDs in 14 games and, in the process, emerged as one of the most reliable targets in the offence. At just 26, his career arrow trajectory is trending upwards.

WR Keric Wheatfall

Took a step this year with a boost to his numbers to 42 catches for 655 yards and four TDs – although he had just seven receptions in his last six games. Has played in 23 games over two years and is at a critical juncture in his CFL career to either continue to blossom or plateau.

DE James Vaughters

He was exactly as advertised in his first year with the Blue Bombers – a steady, veteran presence who tied a career high with six sacks. That said, he is 32 now and the work of Kydran Jenkins and Matt Jaworski in the regular-season finale – just a one-game sample size – does give the club intriguing options to go younger and cheaper.

DT Jamal Woods

Injuries limited him to just four games this year and two sacks. Just 26, it will be interesting to see what kind of attention he might garner if he hits the CFL free agent market.

CB Demerio Houston

He helped stabilize the secondary when he arrived with 17 tackles and two knockdowns in just five games. Still, at 29 he's vulnerable to younger options but his experience could make him popular if he gets to market.

CB Jamal Parker, Jr.

Valuable because of his versatility, Parker, Jr. had 36 tackles, one interception and two fumble recoveries in 2025 in just 11 games.

CB Dexter Lawson

Dressed for 10 games, starting eight this season and his experience was noticeable. There will be no promises if he's re-signed and he'll have to fight for a gig all over again in training camp.

OTHER

Canadians

DT Cam Lawson

Mentioned above, Lawson was arguably the team's best defensive tackle this year even if his snap count might not have reflected that. At 27, he simply needs to play more, but will that be with the Blue Bombers.

OL Tui Eli

He's 29 and the club has been waiting for him to push for a starting gig on the OL. He could be the option at centre if Kolankowski hits the market.

LB Tanner Cadwallader

Consistent veteran presence on special teams who finished with 14 tackles on the kick cover units – third on the team to Michael Ayers (23) and Jaylen Smith (22). Five years with the club now and still only 28.

LB Shayne Gauthier

He's 33 now and still gets it done on special teams game in and game out. The challenge for the Blue Bombers is these roster spots are also critical for younger talent and draft picks.

DB Nick Hallett

So many similarities to Gauthier – he's trusted on special teams and can play safety in a pinch. Still, he's now 32 and teams are always eyeballing these spots in the CFL Draft.

SB Gavin Cobb

Dressed for only four games, starting a pair, but he does offer veteran experience both as a receiver and returner.

Americans

DB Michael Griffin II

Another defender valued for his versatility, Griffin II finished third on the Blue Bombers in total defensive plays, including 47 tackles and a sack. And at 27 he's one of the younger defensive backs with significant experience now.

QB Chris Streveler

Say what you will about how it looked this year, but the Blue Bombers were 4-1 in games he started this year. Immensely respected in the room, he is however at a bit of a career crossroads after suffering another knee injury in the regular-season finale.

OL Eric Lofton

Played in only one game all year after starting every game at right tackle in 2024. He's 32 and the club has settled on Kendall Randolph at the spot.

WR Dillon Mitchell

A frustrating and disappointing season for one of the team's high-profile free agent signings this year just got worse with his arrest this week for multiple offences after a high-speed chase in Arkansas.

Specialists

PK Sergio Castillo

He's been so reliable over the last few years and in 2025 he connected on 85.7 percent of his field goal tries, including a club record 63-yarder. His 6-of-11 mark from distance – 50-yards plus – makes him a long-range weapon. And if popularity counts for anything, he could run for presidente in the Blue Bombers locker room.

P Jamieson Sheahan

Doesn't get enough credit for his skill as a directional punter and his ability to pin offences rather than set them up following punt singles. That could make him potentially even more valuable with rule changes coming over the next two years.

Injured

*(Indicates Canadian)

WR Dalton Schoen

He was simply dominant in 2022-23 with 141 receptions for 2,663 yards and 26 TDs in 34 games. Since then? Injuries have limited him to just eight games over the next two years. If he's 100 percent healthy, this seems like a possible marriage again of risk vs. reward.

CB Terrell Bonds

Started the first eight games before a knee injury ended his season. He's 29 now and the team has a proven track record of finding defensive backs, so...

DT Tanner Schmekel

Was just starting to flash this past season when a knee injury cut his year short. Brings high energy and good teammate vibes but is at a position that also includes Thomas and Lawson as pending free agents.

WR Kody Case

Entered '25 as a versatile receiver/returner but an injury leaves his future with the team in question given the number of pass catchers already on the roster.

DB Enock Makonzo*

Looked to be a potentially valuable addition when he signed last year but was injured in camp. Has now gone two seasons without taking a snap.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/11/28/1st-10-the-blue-bombers-pending-free-agent-list/

Official 2026 Free Agent Tracker

The CFL's Free Agency period opens on Feb. 10, 2026 at noon ET.

The Free Agency Communication Window, in which teams can openly speak with pending free agents or CFL Players' Association-registered designates, is scheduled for February 1 at noon ET until February 8 at noon ET.

https://www.cfl.ca/fa26/#WPG

Transactions:

2025-12-03   WPG   Young, Arnold   DL   A   Montclair State   ADD   Active Roster

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign defensive lineman Arnold Young
December 3, 2025 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed defensive lineman Arnold Young on Wednesday according to the CFL Transactions page.

Arnold Young is six foot four and weighs 285 pounds. A native of Mount Holly, New Jersey, Young was a defensive lineman assistant coach at Montclair State University.

Collegiately, Young spent two seasons at Sussex County Community College (2021-22) as an offensive lineman in 2021, and switched to defensive lineman in 2022 with eight tackles (4 solos, 4 assists), 3.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, one fumble recovery, and one blocked kick in seven games for the Skylanders.

Then, he transferred to Montclair State University (2023-24) with 61 tackles (30 solos, 31 assists), 23.5 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks, and two fumble recoveries in 19 games for the Red Hawks. In 2024, he had a career-high 44 tackles (24 solos, 20 assists), 18.5 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, and one fumble recovery in 10 games.

He was named First Team All-Region by D3Football.com, First Team All-NJAC, Fourth Team All-American by D3Football.com, Second Team All-American by the Associated Press, and was named the NJAC Defensive Player of the Year. In addition, he was also named NJAC Honorable Mention in 2023.


https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2025/12/03/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-defensive-lineman-arnold-young/

Blue Bombers add to roster – Dec 4

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the team has signed American defensive lineman Arnold Young.

Young (6-4, 280, Montclair State; born: February 14, 2003, in Mount Holly, NJ.) signs with the Bombers after two seasons with Montclair State (2023-2024), where he recorded 61 tackles, 28.5 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks, 18 quarterback pressures and two fumble recoveries in 19 games.

After his breakout 2024 season, Young finished as the NJAC Defensive Player of the Year, First-Team All-NJAC, and an AP Division 3 All-American Second Team honouree. Young also led the conference in tackles for loss (18.5), and sacks (10). He is the first Montclair State defensive lineman for be named an All-American since 1996.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/04/blue-bombers-add-to-roster-dec-4/

1st & 10 | The Complete Blue Bombers QB Picture
Dec 5th - Ed Tait

Let's open this week with the following statement-slash-proclamation: there's already a spot waiting for Zach Collaros in the Winnipeg Football Club Hall of Fame and the Ring of Honour and, very likely, his bust will one day be included among the legends at the Canadian Football Hall of Fame, too.

Just to reinforce that, Collaros now ranks third in Blue Bombers history in career passing yardage behind only Dieter Brock and Khari Jones, has won two Grey Cups and appeared in three other championship games during his time behind centre here and has the second-best winning percentage in franchise history with a 55-22 record (71.4), behind only Jim Van Pelt at 20-5 (80.0). He also ranks 15th in CFL history in passing yardage.

There's also this: he's 37 and will turn 38 next August, is entering the final year of his current contract in 2026. And as of right now there is no clear-cut heir apparent at QB1 although there are options already in house and potentially on the near horizon and 11 intriguing quarterback names on the team's 45-player negotiation list, eight of which have been added during the 2025 NCAA season.

With all that in mind, let's take a peek at the Blue Bombers organizational QB depth chart, to to speak, in this week's edition of 1st & 10...

THE STARTER

We gushed about QB1 above and, as some of the numbers bear out, with good reason. There's nothing to say that Collaros can't continue to put up superb numbers, although they dipped last year as he missed five starts and did not finish three other games in posting his lowest totals since becoming a Blue Bomber. The big caveat in that being he was working with a new offensive coordinator and with often a revolving door at the receiver position.

And so, when he's on it looks like it did against Hamilton in late September when he completed 2o of 25 passes for 367 yards and a touchdown a total which suggests in the right system and surrounded by consistent personnel he could enjoy a revival in 2026 the way Trevor Harris has in Saskatchewan and Bo Levi Mitchell in Hamilton. Still, there is little doubt the club must also be prepared for life after Zach or have options coming out of the bullpen if he can't finish games or be available for others as was the case in '25.

THE DEPTH CHART BEHIND COLLAROS

–Terry Wilson finished the season as the back-up to Collaros as veteran Chris Streveler was injured in the regular-season finale. Wilson, now 27, has dressed for all 36 regular season games over the last two years, sometimes as the No. 2 to Streveler or Collaros and often as the third QB on the depth chart. Still, he's only thrown 22 passes over those two years with 12 completions for 79 yards — all but one of those passes coming in the regular-season finale this year.

No one is questioning his arm strength, and there were flashes in his extended work against Montreal that he can be effective, especially when he's using his legs to move the pocket or extend plays. Yet, it's also fair to wonder if his lack of playing time over the last two years — and there were opportunities — says something about the coaching staff's faith in him.

–Chris Streveler is a pending free agent and, after ripping up his knee in the last game of the regular season for the second straight year it's not overly dramatic to ask now what's next for the popular veteran given the depth at the position already on the roster. Say what you will about how it looked at times this year, but the team was 4-1 in his starts as he worked with some of the same challenges Collaros also struggled with all year.

–Chase Artopeous dressed for five games as a rookie in 2024 — the five games Collaros was not on the roster — but did not throw a pass. He posted solid numbers as a starter at Tennessee-Chattanooga in 2023-24, but with limited practice reps and no playing time in the regular season he still remains very much an unknown.

–Bryce Perkins was signed less than a month ago and can already be listed as one of the more fascinating players to track when camp opens next spring. A star at the University of Virginia back in 2018-19, Perkins — who turns 29 later this month — has an impressive pro profile after making one start for the Los Angeles Rams and being a member of their Super Bowl LVI championship in 2021. He spent two years in the UFL, and this past season was named the league's MVP and Offensive Player of the Year for his work with the Michigan Panthers.

If his skills translate quickly to the CFL — and that's not always a given — then the Blue Bombers may have found something in a league where two thirds of the starting QBs are in their 30s in Saskatchewan's Harris (39), Collaros (37), Mitchell in Hamilton (35), Cody Fajardo in Edmonton (33), Calgary's Vernon Adams, Jr. (32) and Toronto's Chad Kelly (31). The three starters in the league still in their 20s are Nathan Rourke in B.C. and Montreal's Davis Alexander (both 27) and Ottawa's Dru Brown (28).

ON THE HORIZON?

Read the rest of the article here...

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/05/1st-10-the-complete-blue-bombers-qb-picture/

Blue Bombers add lineman to roster
Dec 8th

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers announce today the signing of American offensive lineman Tairiq Stewart.

Stewart (6-6, 300, North Carolina A&T; born: October 23, 1999, in Cleveland, OH.) signs with the Bombers after several stints in the CFL after a six-year collegiate career.

Stewart signed with the Edmonton Elks in May 2024, spent time on their practice squad, and appeared in preseason games, then had a brief stint with the Saskatchewan Roughriders in September 2024 before his most recent move to the B.C. Lions in December 2024.

Collegiately, he played two seasons at ASA Brooklyn College (2018-2019) before transferring to West Virginia University in 2020, then finishing his college career at North Carolina A&T (2021-2023). At North Carolina A&T he started 29 games at right tackle, earned First Team All-Big South honours in 2022 and Second Team All-CAA honours in 2023, and after the 2023 season participated in the 2024 HBCU Legacy Bowl.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/08/blue-bombers-add-lineman-to-roster/

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign offensive lineman Tairiq Stewart
December 8, 2025 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed offensive lineman Tairiq Stewart on Monday.

Tairiq Stewart is six foot six and weighs 300 pounds. The 26-year-old from Cleveland, Ohio, signed with the B.C. Lions on December 12, 2024. He attended training camp before the Lions released him on May 11, 2025.

Stewart went undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft and attended the New England Patriots rookie minicamp. Then, Stewart signed with the Edmonton Elks on May 16, 2024.

He appeared in the two preseason games playing left tackle, earning a spot on the practice squad. The Elks released him on August 27, 2024. The Saskatchewan Roughriders signed Stewart on September 5, 2024, and spent three weeks on the practice squad. The Roughriders released him on September 22, 2024.

Collegiately, Stewart played two seasons at ASA Brooklyn College (2018-19), playing 12 games for the Avengers. In 2019, ASA Brooklyn College's offense averaged 46.7 points per game, which was second-best in the nation, 463.4 yards per game, which was fourth-best in the country, and 254.6 rushing yards per game, ranking second-best in the nation. The Avengers finished the season 8-2.

Next, Stewart transferred to West Virginia in 2020, but he did not play for the Mountaineers. Then, Stewart transferred to North Carolina A&T (2021-23), playing right tackle in 29 games for the Aggies. In 2022, North Carolina A&T's running backs rushed for 2,042 yards, and Stewart was named First Team All-Big South.

In 2023, North Carolina A&T's offense averaged 16.09 points per game, 159.2 rushing yards per game, 104.91 passing yards per game, 264.1 total yards per game, and 21 touchdowns. He was named to the Second Team All-CAA in 2023. After the season, he participated in the 2024 HBCU Legacy Bowl.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2025/12/08/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-offensive-lineman-tairiq-stewart/

Transactions:

2025-12-08   WPG   STEWART, Tairiq   OL   A   North Carolina A&T   ADD   Active Roster

Pokey Wilson signs two-year extension

WINNIPEG, MB., December 9, 2025 –  The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce receiver Ontaria Wilson has agreed to a two-year contract extension.

Wilson (6-1, 175, Florida State; born: August 12, 1999, in Ashburn, GA.) returned to the Blue Bombers on September 1, 2025 and initially signed an extension through 2026 after attending training camp with the New York Jets earlier this summer.

 This new deal will keep him in a Blue Bombers uniform through the 2028 Canadian Football League season.

 Wilson suited up for six regular season games and the Eastern Semi-Final after his return, pulling in 21 passes for 382 yards and three touchdowns in the regular season. He added three catches for 66 yards and a touchdown in the playoff loss to the Montreal Alouettes.

 Wilson turned a sensational 2024 season with the Blue Bombers into his opportunity with the Jets in the summer as he finished with 71 receptions for 1,026 yards and three touchdowns while being named the team's Most Outstanding Rookie.

He played college football at Florida State University from 2018 to 2022, finishing with 108 receptions, 1,521 yards, and 12 touchdowns. He signed with the Los Angeles Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2023 but was released after training camp.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/09/pokey-wilson-signs-two-year-extension/


"It definitely feels great to always know I've got a home."
Dec 9 - Ed Tait

Ontaria 'Pokey' Wilson long ago learned to deal with change in his football life, especially with so much of it out of his control.

After all, consider that during his days at Florida State played for three different head coaches and had six offensive coordinators and three receiver coaches with the Seminoles. He's had two looks in the National Football League in 2023 with the Los Angeles Chargers and last year with the New York Jets and sandwiched around the stint in Gotham was where he had had the most success and most stability in his football career — with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

And that's a big part of why he put his name on a new two-year contract extension with the club this week that will keep him in Winnipeg for the next few seasons. Wilson and the club agreed to renegotiate his rookie contract after he posted a 1,000-yard campaign and was named the club's Most Outstanding Rookie in 2024 and then pulled in 21 passes for 382 yards and three TDs in six games after returning to the club from the Jets.

"With the year I had as a rookie and then a couple games when I came back last year, I felt like I was maybe worth a little bit more than the rookie contract I was on," said Wilson in a chat with bluebombers.com from his offseason base in Ashburn, GA, today. "Winnipeg felt the same way about it, too.

"It definitely feels great to always know I've got a home, that I know where I'm going. It's comfortable — you don't to get comfortable as a player, but I know where I'm going to be next year and that's important."

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/09/it-definitely-feels-great-to-always-know-ive-got-a-home/

Cam Lawson signs two-year extension

WINNIPEG, MB., December 10, 2025 —  The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has signed Canadian defensive tackle Cam Lawson to a two-year contract extension.

Lawson (6-3, 290; Queen's University; born: October 7, 1998, in Caledon, ON) will return in 2026 for his fourth season with the Blue
Bombers.

After suffering a season-ending knee injury in 2024, Lawson bounced back in 2025, dressing for 16 games (six of them starts) and registered 21 defensive tackles, one sack and one forced fumble.

Originally selected by the Montreal Alouettes in the second round, 16th overall, in the 2020 CFL Draft, he appeared in four games with the Alouettes in 2021 before being traded to Winnipeg on draft day in May of 2022 in a deal that saw the Blue Bombers send the 9th and 18th overall selections to Montreal for Lawson and the 13th overall selection.

Lawson has dressed for 53 career CFL games, four with the Alouettes and 49 with the Blue Bombers, and has 41 career defensive tackles, seven sacks, an interception, and a forced fumble.

He played his college ball at Queen's where he was a two-time OUA Second Team All Star in 2017 and 2018.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/10/cam-lawson-signs-two-year-extension/

Transactions:

2025-12-10   WPG   LAWSON, Cameron   DL   N   Queen's   ADD   Active Roster

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign defensive back Cameron McCutcheon
December 11, 2025 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed defensive back Cameron McCutcheon on Thursday according to the CFL Transactions page.

Cameron McCutcheon is six foot one and weighs 204 pounds. The 25-year-old from Seneca, South Carolina, signed with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent on May 15, 2023. In 2023, he made six tackles (3 solos, 3 assists) and three pass breakups in three preseason games. He spent the season on and off the practice squad.

The Rams re-signed him on January 15, 2024. In 2024, he made seven tackles (6 solos, 1 assist) and two pass breakups in three preseason games. The Rams released him on August 25, 2024. The Pittsburgh Steelers signed McCutcheon on January 21, 2025. In 2025, he played in one preseason game before he suffered a hamstring injury and was placed on injured reserve. The Steelers released him on September 9, 2025.

Collegiately, McCutcheon spent three seasons at Gardner-Webb University (2018-20) with 87 tackles (63 solos, 24 assists), one tackle for loss, one interception, seven pass breakups, and one forced fumble in 25 games for the Runnin' Bulldogs. In 2019, he had a career-high 54 tackles (39 solos, 15 assists), one tackle for loss, and three pass breakups in 11 games.

Then, he transferred to Western Carolina University (2021-22) with 79 tackles (48 solos, 31 assists), 4.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, eight pass breakups, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery in 22 games for the Catamounts. In 2021, he made 47 tackles (27 solos, 20 assists), two tackles for loss, two interceptions, four pass breakups, and one fumble recovery in 11 games.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2025/12/11/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-defensive-back-cameron-mccutcheon/

Transactions:

2025-12-11   WPG   McCutcheon, Cameron   DB   A   Western Carolina   ADD   Active Roster

Brady Oliveira Signs Three-year Contract Extension
December 15, 2025

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the signing of running back Brady Oliveira to a three-year contract extension through the 2028 Canadian Football League season.

He was scheduled to become a free agent in February.

Oliveira (5-10, 229; North Dakota; born: August 15, 1997, in Winnipeg, MB.) is already one of the most-decorated players in Blue Bombers history and will now continue his career with his hometown team.

The CFL's Most Outstanding Player in 2024 and a two-time winner of the CFL's Most Outstanding Canadian Award in 2023 and 2024, Oliveira was named the Club's most outstanding player and top Canadian for a third consecutive season in 2025. He is also a two-time CFL All Star (2023, 2024) and coming off a 2025 season in which he rushed for 1,163 yards and three touchdowns and set career highs in receiving with 61 receptions for 546 yards.

He has now rushed for over 1,000 yards in four consecutive seasons and is already sixth in franchise history in career rushing yards at 5,480 yards.

Oliveira posted four 100-yard rushing games and one 100-yard effort in receiving in 2025, now giving him 22 career 100-yard contests in his career – a total that ranks seventh in franchise history.

Oliveira was selected by the Blue Bombers in the second round, 14th overall, in the 2019 CFL Draft after an outstanding career at North Dakota. He has since suited up for 83 games for the club, scoring 27 touchdowns.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/15/brady-oliveira-signs-three-year-contract-extension/

Oliveira Remains True Blue
December 15, 2025 - Ed Tait

His four consecutive 1,000-yard rushing campaigns is also second only in franchise history to Charles Roberts, who rushed for over 1,000 yards six consecutive times from 2002-07.

Just six years into his career, Oliveira is already sixth on the Blue Bombers all-time rushing list with 5,480 yards, having passed both Fred Reid (4,505) and Andrew Harris (5,402) this past season.

He now trails only Roberts (9,987), Leo Lewis (8,861), Willard Reaves (5,923), Jim Washington (5,736) and Gerry James (5,541) on the club's all-time rushing list.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/15/oliveira-remains-true-blue/

Blue Bombers sign Redha Kramdi to two-year contract extension
December 16, 2025

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has agreed to terms on a two-year extension with veteran Canadian defensive back Redha Kramdi.

He was scheduled to become a free agent in February.

Kramdi (5-10, 189; Université de Montréal; born: December 22, 1996, in Montreal, Que.) returns in 2026 for his sixth year with the Blue Bombers and following a stellar 2025 campaign in which he finished with 47 defensive tackles, two more on special teams, a forced fumble and his first career interception against Saskatchewan in the Banjo Bowl.

He also tied a career high with eight tackles in a win over Hamilton in September, equalling a total he first set against Toronto in late July of 2024.

A versatile defender who started at both the dime spot and at safety, Kramdi started 16 games in 2025 and the Eastern Semi-Final and has now played in 72 games as a Blue Bomber while emerging as a defensive and team leader.

He was selected in the second round, 16th overall, in the 2021 CFL Draft after a solid college career with the Carabins,

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/16/blue-bombers-sign-redha-kramdi-to-two-year-contract-extension/

Transactions:

2025-12-16   WPG   KRAMDI, Redha   LB   N   Montreal   ADD   Active Roster

Transactions:

2025-12-17   WPG   OLIVEIRA, Brady   RB   N   North Dakota   ADD   Active Roster
2025-12-17   WPG   Monroe, Gerald   WR   A   Graceland   ADD   Active Roster

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign wide receiver Gerald Monroe
December 17, 2025 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed wide receiver Gerald Monroe on Wednesday according to the CFL Transactions page.

Gerald Monroe is five foot ten and weighs 185 pounds. A native of Glenn Heights, Texas, Monroe made 34 catches for 496 yards, nine touchdowns, completed two passes for 74 yards, one touchdown, one carry for -17 yards, and one punt return for 14 yards in eight games for the Graceland Yellow Jackets.

Collegiately, Monroe spent four seasons at Graceland University (2022-25) with 249 catches for 4,297 yards, 58 touchdowns, completed three passes for 78 yards, one touchdown, four carries for 18 yards, seven kick returns for 142 yards, seven punt returns for 38 yards, and seven tackles (7 solos) in 33 games for the Yellow Jackets.

He was named a two-time AFCA NAIA All-American, two-time First Team All-Heart North, and the Heart North Offensive Player of the Year in 2024.

In 2022, Monroe led the nation with 138 yards per game. He finished the season with 93 catches for 1,518 yards, 16 touchdowns, one carry for -3 yards, five kick returns for 101 yards, three punt returns for 10 yards, and two tackles (2 solos) in 11 games. He was named First Team AFCA NAIA All-American and First Team All-Heart North.

In 2024, Monroe made 84 catches for 1,562 yards, 22 touchdowns, two carries for 38 yards, one kick return for 23 yards, three punt returns for 14 yards, and five tackles (5 solos) in eight games. He was named First Team AFCA NAIA All-American, First Team All-Heart North, and the Heart North Offensive Player of the Year.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2025/12/17/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-wide-receiver-gerald-monroe/

Blue Bombers re-sign veteran defensive back Deatrick Nichols
December 18, 2025

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has agreed to terms on a one-year contract extension with veteran defensive back Deatrick Nichols.

He was scheduled to become a free agent in February.

Nichols (5-9, 178; University of South Florida; born: June 3, 1994, in Miami, FLA.) returns in 2026 for his sixth year with the Blue Bombers and following another solid season in 2025.

An important leader and steady presence in a defence that surrendered the fewest points in 2025, Nichols finished the year with 37 defensive tackles and 13 pass knockdowns – second in the Canadian Football League to Willie Jefferson's league-leading 16.

A two-time CFL All-Star (2021, 2022), Nichols started all 18 regular-season games and the Eastern Semi-Final and has only missed two contests in the last five years. He was also a member of the 2021 Grey Cup championship side. He has now suited up for 82 regular-season games, every one of them as a Blue Bomber.

Nichols played his college ball at South Florida and was a starter in his final three seasons. He first turned pro with the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent in 2018 and had looks from the New Orleans Saints and Miami Dolphins and, in 2020, was also leading the XFL in interceptions in 2020 as a member of the Houston Roughnecks before the COVID-19 pandemic shut the league down.

He first signed with the Blue Bombers in February of 2021.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/18/blue-bombers-re-sign-veteran-defensive-back-deatrick-nichols/

Blue Bombers re-sign receiver Nic Demski to two-year contract
December 18, 2025

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce that all-star receiver Nic Demski has signed a two-year contract extension through the 2027 Canadian Football League season. Demski had been scheduled to become a free agent in February.

Demski (5-11, 212; University of Manitoba; born December 14, 1993, in Winnipeg, MB) completed his third consecutive 1,000-yard receiving season in 2025, finishing with 67 receptions for 1,001 yards and seven touchdowns.

His strong performance earned him a spot on the CFL West Division All-Star Team for the fifth straight year. Demski has led the Blue Bombers in receiving yards in each of the past two seasons. He now has 42 career receiving touchdowns and 494 career receptions for 6,285 yards, including his 2025 totals.

Demski has now moved into seventh place on the Bombers' all-time receiving yardage list with 6,285 yards. He also sits among the franchise's top scorers, with his 42 receiving touchdowns placing him high on the all-time list.

Originally selected by the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the first round, sixth overall, of the 2015 CFL Draft, Demski returned to his hometown as a free agent in 2018. He has since appeared in 152 regular-season games and five Grey Cups, winning championships with the Blue Bombers in 2019 and 2021.

A Winnipeg product who starred at both the University of Manitoba and Oak Park High School, Demski has twice been named the Blue Bombers' Most Outstanding Canadian (2021, 2022).

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/18/blue-bombers-re-sign-receiver-nic-demski-to-two-year-contract/

Transactions:

2025-12-18   WPG   More, Joseph   OL   A   Arkansas   ADD   Active Roster
2025-12-18   WPG   NICHOLS, Deatrick   DB   A   South Florida   ADD   Active Roster

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign offensive lineman Joseph 'Joe' More
December 18, 2025 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed offensive lineman Joseph 'Joe' More on Thursday according to the CFL Transactions page.

Joseph 'Joe' More is six foot five and weighs 311 pounds. A native of Franklin, Tennessee, More transferred to Arkansas in 2024, playing 13 games on special teams for the Razorbacks.

Collegiately, More spent five seasons at the University of Richmond (2018-22), playing right tackle in 37 games for the Spiders. In 2022, Richmond's offense averaged 31.3 points per game, 424.1 total yards per game (5,513 total yards), 282.5 passing yards per game (3,673 passing yards), 141.5 rushing yards per game (1,840 rushing yards), 49 touchdowns, and allowed 26 sacks, finishing 9-4 for the season. He was named Third Team All-CAA.

Next, he transferred to Syracuse in 2023, playing three games after missing most of the season due to an injury. He saw 29 snaps on the offensive line and six more on special teams for the Orange. In 2023, Syracuse's offense averaged 23.5 points per game, 343.3 total yards per game (4,463 yards), 171 passing yards per game (2,223 passing yards), 172.3 rushing yards per game (2,240 rushing yards), 40 touchdowns, and allowed 29 sacks, finishing 6-7 for the season.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2025/12/18/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-offensive-lineman-joseph-joe-more/

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign Nic Demski to contract extension through 2027
By John Hodge -December 18, 2025

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have signed Canadian receiver Nic Demski to a two-year contract extension. He was scheduled to become a free agent in February.

According to 3DownNation reporter John Hodge, Demski's new contract is worth $240,000 in 2026 and $245,000 in 2027. A portion of his salary is guaranteed in 2027.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/18/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-nic-demski-to-contract-extension/

Transactions:

2025-12-19   WPG   DEMSKI, Nic   WR   N   Manitoba   ADD   Active Roster

Blue Bombers announce coaching changes
December 22, 2025

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce changes to the coaching staff for the 2026 Canadian Football League season. Tommy Condell has been named the Club's new offensive coordinator, and Jake Thomas will be transitioning from his playing career to become the team's defensive line coach, replacing retiring coach Darrell Patterson. Jason Hogan will return in 2026 as the Club's running backs coach, a role he previously held from 2022-2024.

Condell joins the Blue Bombers after spending the last two years as the offensive coordinator with the Ottawa Redblacks and brings 15 years of Canadian Football League coaching experience with five different teams.

Condell began his CFL career with the Blue Bombers in 1997 as the special teams coordinator on Jeff Reinebold's staff and has experience in the league with the Ottawa Renegades (2004-05), Saskatchewan Roughriders (2006), Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2014-15; 2020-23), Toronto Argonauts (2017-18) and Redblacks (2024-25).

He was part of the coaching staff that helped lead the Argos to the 2017 Grey Cup championship and served as the offensive coordinator with the Roughriders in '06, with the Ticats from '13-15 and again in '21-23 and the Argos in '18 before joining the Redblacks in the same capacity in '24.

His coaching resumé also includes stints with Illinois Wesleyan (1995), Albany Firebirds (1996), Hamilton Continentals (1996), McNeese State (1998-99), Stephen F. Austin (2000), Louisiana-Monroe (2001-03), Southeastern Louisiana (2007-09) and Cornell (2010-12).

The Redblacks ranked eighth in offensive points in 2025 as starting quarterback Dru Brown missed nine games and Ottawa started four different quarterbacks. Ottawa finished the year ranked fifth in passing yards per game (269.3) and sixth in rushing (93.6). In 2024, the Redblacks finished second in passing yards per game (303.1) and ninth in rushing (83.7) as Brown threw for a career-best 3,959 yards in his first year as their starter.

During his days in Hamilton, the Tiger-Cats finished first in scoring and second in passing in 2019 and fourth in scoring and passing in 2019. He also worked with Zach Collaros in Hamilton in 2014-15, when he first emerged as a CFL star quarterback.

Thomas steps into a new role as the defensive line coach after a superb 13-year career with the club that saw him play in 223 regular season games and five Grey Cups, serving as a key member of the championship teams in 2019 and 2021.

His 223 career games rank fourth highest in Blue Bombers history after only Bob Cameron (394), Troy Westwood (293) and Chris Walby (249).

Selected by the Blue Bombers in the fourth round, 29th overall, of the 2012 CFL Draft, the Acadia University product transformed into a reliable starter and respected leader who spent hours in the film room and now transitions to coaching after a career in which he posted 33 sacks, 196 tackles, five forced fumbles and one interception.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/22/blue-bombers-announce-coaching-changes/

Blue Bombers transactions
December 23, 2025

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has signed American quarterback Payton Thorne.

Thorne (6-2, 207, Auburn; born: June 26, 2001, in Naperville, IL.) signs with the Bombers after attending camp with the Cincinnati Bengals this season, and a five-year collegiate career with Michigan State (2019-2022) and Auburn (2023-2024).

Thorne signed as an undrafted free agent with the Cincinnati Bengals after being unselected in the 2025 NFL Draft. He appeared in the final preseason game of 2025 and threw for 41 yards on four completions in a loss to the Indianapolis Colts.

Thorne spent three seasons at Michigan State before transferring to Auburn. At Auburn he threw for 4,468 yards and 37 touchdowns and rushed for 798 yards and five touchdowns in 22 starts. During his college career he recorded 10,961 passing yards and 86 touchdowns, along with 1,068 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns in 53 games (46 starts).

The club has also released American defensive back Jamal Parker and American receiver Cam Echols.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/23/blue-bombers-transactions-24/

Transactions:

2025-12-23   WPG   Banks, Jahmal   WR   A   Nebraska   ADD   Active Roster
2025-12-23   WPG   ELSBURY, Tyler   OL   A   Iowa   ADD FROM RETIRED   Active Roster
2025-12-23   WPG   ECHOLS, Cam   WR   A   Western Kentucky   DEL   Free Agent
2025-12-23   WPG   ELSBURY, Tyler   OL   A   Iowa   DEL   Active Roster
2025-12-23   WPG   THORNE, Payton   QB   A   Auburn   ADD   Active Roster
2025-12-23   WPG   PARKER, Jamal   DB   A   Kent State   DEL   Free Agent
2025-12-23   WPG   ELSBURY, Tyler   OL   A   Iowa   ADD   Active Roster

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign QB Payton Thorne, release two
December 23, 2025 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed quarterback Payton Thorne and released wide receiver Cameron Echols-Luper and Jamal Parker Jr. on Tuesday. In addition, offensive lineman Tyler Elsbury was removed from the retired list and placed on the active roster.

Payton Thorne is six foot two and weighs 207 pounds. The 24-year-old from Naperville, Illinois, signed with the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent on May 9, 2025. In 2025, Thorne completed 4 of 7 passes (57.1%) for 41 yards in one preseason game. The Bengals released him on August 25, 2025.

Collegiately, Thorne spent four seasons at Michigan State (2019-22) completing 524 of 860 passes (61%) for 6,494 yards, 49 touchdowns, 24 interceptions, 167 carries for 270 yards, six rushing touchdowns, one catch for 15 yards, and two tackles (2 solos) in 29 games for the Spartans.

Then, he transferred to Auburn University (2023-24), completing 361 of 582 passes (62%) for 4,468 yards, 37 touchdowns, 19 interceptions, 246 carries for 798 yards, and five rushing touchdowns in 24 games for the Tigers.

Cameron Echols-Luper is six foot and weighs 195 pounds. The 30-year-old from Ennis, Texas, made six catches for 71 yards and one tackle in two preseason games. The Stampeders released him on May 30, 2025. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed Echols-Luper on August 25, 2025. In 2025, he made two catches for nine yards in one game.

The B.C. Lions signed Echols-Luper signed with the B.C. Lions September 10, 2019. He finished the season on the practice squad. In 2021, he played for the Sea Lions (TSL) with 13 catches for 193 yards.

The New Jersey Generals signed Echols-Luper on April 1, 2022. In 2022, Echols-Luper made three catches for 38 yards, one carry for 24 yards, one touchdown, and 26 kick returns for 748 yards in eight games.

In 2023, he made 23 catches for 294 yards, two touchdowns, eight kick returns for 255 yards, one touchdown, and nine punt returns for 32 yards in ten games. Echols-Luper signed with the New Orleans Breakers on October 4, 2023, but the Breakers were not included in the USFL and XFL merger that formed the United Football League (UFL).

The Calgary Stampeders signed him on January 21, 2024. In 2024, he made 31 catches for 363 yards, four touchdowns, eight kick returns for 181 yards, and 12 punt returns for 109 yards in 12 games.

Collegiately, Echols-Luper played two seasons at TCU (2013-14) with 13 catches for 93 yards, one carry for three yards, completing 3 of 4 passes (75%) for 59 yards, one touchdown, 11 kick returns for 126 yards, 47 punt returns for 536 yards, and one touchdown in 24 games for the Horned Frogs. He was an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention as a return specialist in 2014.

Next, Echols-Luper transferred to Arkansas State (2015-16) with 26 catches for 407 yards, one touchdown, seven carries for eight yards, completed 2 of 3 passes (67%) for 66 yards, one touchdown, two kick returns for 35 yards, and four punt returns for 139 yards in 13 games for the Red Wolves.

Then, Echols-Luper transferred to Western Kentucky in 2017 with 42 catches for 473 yards, four touchdowns, two carries for six yards, and 18 kick returns for 390 yards in 10 games for the Hilltoppers.

Jamal Parker Jr. is five foot eight and weighs 177 pounds. The 27-year-old from Pennsauken, New Jersey, re-signed with the Blue Bombers on January 10, 2025. In 2025, he made 36 tackles, one interception, and one touchdown in 11 games.

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed Parker Jr. on May 15, 2022. In 2022, Parker Jr. made 37 tackles, eight tackles on special teams, one sack, and one interception in 12 games. In 2023, he made 13 tackles and three tackles on special teams in eight games. In 2024, he missed the season due to a knee injury.

Collegiately, Parker Jr. played four seasons at Kent State (2016-19) with 230 tackles (156 solos, 74 assists), four tackles for loss, two sacks, nine interceptions for 99 yards, 38 pass breakups, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, one blocked kick, one carry for 11 yards, 43 kick returns for 1,181 yards, one touchdown, and two punt returns for 18 yards in 48 games for the Golden Flashes. He was named Second Team All-MAC.

Tyler Elsbury is six foot five and weighs 316 pounds. The 24-year-old from Byron, Illinois, attended the Seattle Seahawks rookie minicamp in 2025. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed Elsbury on May 16, 2025. In 2025, he played left guard in two preseason games. Elsbury spent over a month on the practice squad. He was placed on the retired list on July 21, 2025.

Collegiately, Elsbury played five seasons at Iowa (2020-24), playing guard in 50 games for the Hawkeyes. In 2024, Iowa averaged 27.69 points per game, 197.2 rushing yards per game, 131.6 passing yards per game, 328.8 total yards per game, 43 touchdowns, and allowed 17 sacks, finishing 8-5 for the season and appearing in the TransPerfect Music City Bowl.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2025/12/23/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-qb-payton-thorne-release-two/

Coty Wiles  @CotyWilesSports

Can confirm Payton Thorne's contract with the Blue Bombers is through 28', as Winnipeg now has 5 QBs under contract:

Z.Collaros 26'
T.Wilson 26'
C.Artopoeus 26'
B.Perkins 27'
P.Thorne 28'

25' 2nd RD pick Taylor Elgersma also remains a FA, having had two #NFL workouts with the 49ers and Bears

Definitely one of the most intriguing QB rooms in the #CFL

Transactions

2025-12-29   WPG   ELI, Asotui   OL   N   Hawaii   ADD   Active Roster

Coty Wiles  @CotyWilesSports
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers and C/OG Asotui Eli have agreed on a 2-year deal that will keep the pending FA in Winnipeg through 2027

The 29 y/o 🇨🇦 has been with the Bombers for the last five seasons and has centre/guard versatility

6'3, 287, great depth signing

Quote from: gobombersgo on December 24, 2025, 09:08:20 PMCoty Wiles  @CotyWilesSports

Can confirm Payton Thorne's contract with the Blue Bombers is through 28', as Winnipeg now has 5 QBs under contract:

Z.Collaros 26'
T.Wilson 26'
C.Artopoeus 26'
B.Perkins 27'
P.Thorne 28'

25' 2nd RD pick Taylor Elgersma also remains a FA, having had two #NFL workouts with the 49ers and Bears

Definitely one of the most intriguing QB rooms in the #CFL

Thorne signed a 3 year deal????

That's kind of insane.

Blue Bombers re-sign offensive lineman Tui Eli to two-year contract
December 30, 2025

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has agreed to terms on a two-year contract with veteran Canadian offensive lineman Tui Eli.

He was scheduled to become a free agent in February.

Eli (6-3, 287; University of Hawaii; born: January 31, 1996, in Richmond, B.C..) returns in 2026 for his sixth year with the Blue Bombers after a 2025 Canadian Football League campaign which saw him appear in all 18 regular season games and the Eastern Semi-Final. Eli also picked up a receiving touchdown in the club's win over the B.C. Lions in June, pulling in a five-yard pass from Zach Collaros.

He has now suited up for 70 regular season CFL games, six of them starts and was part of the Grey Cup championship teams in both 2019 and 2021.

Eli was selected in the fourth round, 34th overall, in the 2019 CFL Draft after a solid college career at Hawaii where he appeared in 36 games over three seasons with the Rainbow Warriors.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/30/blue-bombers-re-sign-offensive-lineman-tui-eli-to-two-year-contract/

Blue Bombers add five to roster
December 31, 2025

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has signed American wide receiver Jahmal Banks, American defensive back Cam McCutcheon, American offensive lineman Joe More, American offensive lineman Tyler Elsbury and American wide receiver Gerald Monroe.

Banks (6-4, 220, Nebraska; born: October 2, 2001, in Washington, D.C.) signs with the Bombers after a stint in the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens, and a five-year collegiate career with Nebraska (2024), and Wake Forest (2020-2023).

Banks went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft and signed with the Baltimore Ravens in May 2025. He attended camp later in the year, and appeared in all three preseason games, recording one reception for six yards.

At Nebraska, Banks started 10 of 13 games and posted 44 receptions for 587 yards and three touchdowns.

In his four years with Wake Forest, he recorded 107 receptions for 1,404 yards and 13 touchdowns. In 2022, Banks had a breakout season with 42 receptions for 636 yards and nine touchdown catches, earning All-ACC honourable mention honours.

McCutcheon (6-1, 204, Western Carolina; born: April 3, 2000, in Seneca, SC.) signs with the Bombers after NFL stints with the Los Angeles Rams and Pittsburgh Steelers, and a five-year collegiate career with Western Carolina (2021-2022), and Gardner-Webb (2018-2020).

McCutcheon signed with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent after going unselected in the 2023 NFL Draft, spending time on the team's roster and practice squad during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. He signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers in January 2025 and participated in training camp but was placed on injured reserve prior to release.

McCutcheon transferred to Western Carolina University ahead of the 2021 season, where he appeared in 22 games with 21 starts at cornerback, finishing his career with 79 tackles, 48 solo tackles, four and a half tackles for loss, eight passes defensed, two interceptions and a forced fumble with a fumble recovery.

McCutcheon began his collegiate career with Gardner-Webb University, where he recorded 87 tackles (63 solo, 24 assisted) and one interception in 25 games (14 starts).

More (6-5, 311, Arkansas; born: June 28, 1999, in Franklin, TN.) joins the Bombers after a six-year collegiate career with Arkansas (2024), Syracuse (2023), and Richmond University (2018-2022).

More completed his collegiate career with Arkansas, where he saw action in 13 games, including the Liberty Bowl. His 2023 season saw him appear in three games with Syracuse.

More began his college career at Richmond University where he started 36 games, primarily at right tackle. In 2022 he started all 12 games and was named Third Team All-CAA while helping the team's offense rank among the highest in the Colonial Athletic Association in total yards and scoring.

Elsbury (6-6, 333, Iowa; born: July 14, 2001, in Byron, IL.) returns to the Bombers after spending time on the practice roster during the 2025 CFL season.

Before the Bombers, Elsbury attended the Seattle Seahawks rookie minicamp in 2025 after being unselected in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Collegiately, Elsbury played five seasons at Iowa (2020-2024), appearing at guard for 48 games, starting in seven. In 2024, Iowa averaged 27.69 points per game, scored 43 touchdowns, allowed just 17 sacks, finished the season 8-5, and earned a berth in the TransPerfect Music City Bowl.

Monroe (5-10, 185, Graceland; born: May 5, 2002, in Glenn Heights, TX.) signs with the Bombers after four seasons with Graceland University (2022-2025).

At Graceland, Monroe recorded 249 catches for 4,297 yards and 58 touchdowns and completed three passes for 78 yards and one touchdown. On special teams he returned seven kicks for 142 yards and seven punts for 38 yards.

In eight games during the 2024 season, Monroe recorded 84 receptions for 1,562 yards and 22 touchdowns. He also added two rushing attempts for 38 yards, a 23-yard kick return, three punt returns for 14 yards, and five tackles (all solo). He ended the season with First Team AFCA NAIA All-American honours, First Team All-Heart North recognition, and the Heart North Offensive Player of the Year award.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/12/31/blue-bombers-add-five-to-roster-2/

Coty Wiles   @CotyWilesSports
Dec 31, 2025

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have made the signings of WR Jamal Banks and Gerald Monroe, OL Tyler Elsbury and Joe More, and DB Cam McCutcheon official

Banks and McCutcheon's deals are through 2027, while the rest are through 2028

Winnipeg Blue Bombers' QB Zach Collaros rings in new year with $100,000 offseason bonus
Justin Dunk - January 1, 2026

Winnipeg Blue Bombers' quarterback Zach Collaros has rung in the new year with a $100,000 offseason roster bonus.

The 37-year-old will receiver another $100,000 on January 15. He has a $400,000 base salary for the 2026 CFL season, which will bring his total earnings for the year to an even $600,000. The 13-year veteran ranks as the three-down league's third highest-paid QB behind Nathan Rourke ($684,000) and Chad Kelly ($625,000) for the upcoming season.

https://3downnation.com/2026/01/01/winnipeg-blue-bombers-qb-zach-collaros-rings-in-new-year-with-100000-offseason-bonus/

Blue Bombers re-sign veteran defensive lineman Tanner Schmekel
January 5, 2026

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with Canadian defensive tackle Tanner Schmekel

He was scheduled to become a free agent in February.

Schmekel (6-1, 286; University of Regina; born: July 22, 1999, in Regina, SK.) returns in 2026 for his fourth year with the Blue Bombers and after a 2025 campaign that was cut short due to injury and limited to just four games.

Schmekel was having arguably his best start to his young pro career last year before the injury with a pair of tackles and a sack in those four contests, with his season ending in Saskatchewan in the annual Labour Day Classic.

He has now suited up for 26 regular-season games for the club since he was selected in the fourth round, 35thoverall, in the 2023 CFL Draft. Schmekel was a 2022 U Sports First-Team All-Canadian and Canada West All-Star.

The club has also released National offensive lineman Chris Kolankowski.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2026/01/05/blue-bombers-re-sign-veteran-defensive-lineman-tanner-schmekel/

Winnipeg Blue Bombers re-sign defensive tackle Tanner Schmekel
January 5, 2026 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers re-signed defensive tackle Tanner Schmekel to a one-year contract extension through the 2026 season on Monday.

Tanner Schmekel is six foot one and weighs 286 pounds. The 26-year-old from Regina, Saskatchewan, in 2025 made two tackles and one sack in four games before an injury ended his season.

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers drafted Schmekel in the fourth round (35th pick) of the 2023 CFL Draft. In 2023, he made one tackle and one sack in five games. In 2024, Schmekel made six tackles in 17 games.

Schmekel played four seasons at the University of Regina (2017-18, 2021-22) with 58 tackles (27 solos, 31 assists), 9.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, and one pass breakup in 24 games for the Rams. In 2022, he was named U SPORTS First-Team All-Canadian and Canada West All-Star after finishing the season with 22 tackles (12 solos, 10 assists), 9.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, and one pass breakup in nine games.

In addition, Schmekel played one season for the Regina Thunder (CJFL) with 14 tackles (9 solos, 5 assists) and one forced fumble in five games. He is a three-time University of Regina Defensive Lineman of the Year.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2026/01/05/winnipeg-blue-bombers-re-sign-defensive-tackle-tanner-schmekel/


Winnipeg Blue Bombers release offensive lineman Chris Kolankowski
January 5, 2026 Michael Heilman

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers released offensive lineman Chris Kolankowski on Monday according to the CFL Transactions page.

Chris Kolankowski is six foot one and weighs 301 pounds. The 33-year-old from Etobicoke, Ontario, started 18 games in 2025. In 2025, Winnipeg's offense averaged 23.1 points per game, 345.7 net yards per game, 235 yards per game, 124.1 rushing yards per game, 38 touchdowns, and allowed 37 sacks to finish 10-8 for the season. They lost to the Montreal Alouettes in the Eastern Semi-Final.

The Toronto Argonauts drafted Kolankowski in the sixth round (49th pick) in the 2016 CFL Draft. He played 22 games for the Argonauts, including winning the 2017 Grey Cup.

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers signed Kolankowski on February 6, 2020. There was no season in 2020. He has played 73 games and won a Grey Cup with the Blue Bombers in 2021.

In 2023, Winnipeg's offense ranked first in total points (594), average points per game (31.7), offensive touchdowns (62), average net offense per game (414.7), average rushing yards per game (139.1), second in offensive touchdowns (65), average passing yards per game (292.4), and sacks allowed (33).

In 2024, Kolanowski played in 18 games. Winnipeg's offense ranked eighth in average points (23.2), sixth in average net offense (358.5), third in average rushing yards (111.7), eighth in average passing yards (260.2), ninth in passing touchdowns (18), and fifth in sacks allowed (36).

Collegiately, Kolankowski played four seasons at York University (2012-15), playing 27 games for the Lions. He earned the team's Tom Arnott Yeoman of the Year Award for Hard Work and Character in 2015, and the Mike Benevides Lineman of the Year Award in 2018.

https://www.bgmsportstrax.com/2026/01/05/winnipeg-blue-bombers-release-offensive-lineman-chris-kolankowski/

Transactions:

2026-01-05   WPG   SCHMEKEL, Tanner   DL   N   Regina   ADD   Active Roster
2026-01-05   WPG   KOLANKOWSKI, Chris   OL   N   York   DEL   Free Agent

Blue Bombers sign All-CFL halfback Evan Holm to two-year contract extension
January 6, 2026

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has agreed to terms on a two-year extension with veteran defensive back Evan Holm.

He was scheduled to become a free agent in February.

Holm (5-11, 188; University of North Dakota; born: May 14, 1998, in Edina, MN.) returns in 2026 for his fifth year with the Blue Bombers and following a 2025 season that was the best in his Canadian Football League career.

Holm was named to the CFL and West Division All-Star teams in 2025 and was also saluted as the Blue Bombers Most Outstanding Defensive player after finishing with 55 tackles, six more on special teams, two forced fumbles and a team high four interceptions.

He started all 18 regular-season games and the Eastern Semi-Final in 2025 and has not missed a single contest since 2023, with 63 games – all as a Blue Bomber – now to his name.

Holm dressed for 47 games, starting 25, during his days with the Fighting Hawks and earned All-Missouri Valley Football Conference honours during his redshirt senior season (2020-21) and was named as an honourable mention to the MVFC All-Academic Team.  Holm was named UND's most-valuable defensive back in his junior season and as a freshman was named to the Big Sky All-Academic Team.

https://www.bluebombers.com/2026/01/06/blue-bombers-sign-all-cfl-halfback-evan-holm-to-two-year-contract-extension/

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2026-01-06   WPG   HOLM, Evan   DB   A   North Dakota   ADD   Active Roster