Blue Bombers Forum

https://3downnation.com/2025/10/22/the-toronto-argonauts-potential-2026-free-agents-list/

https://3downnation.com/2025/10/29/the-ottawa-redblacks-potential-2026-free-agents-list/

https://3downnation.com/2025/10/30/the-edmonton-elks-potential-2026-free-agents-list/

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/03/the-calgary-stampeders-potential-2026-free-agents-list/

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/10/the-hamilton-tiger-cats-potential-2026-free-agents-list/

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/11/the-b-c-lions-potential-2026-free-agents-list/

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/18/the-montreal-alouettes-potential-2026-free-agents-list/

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/20/the-saskatchewan-roughriders-potential-2026-free-agent-list/

The Edmonton Elks have extended a pair of budding defensive stars in American defensive back Kordell Jackson and Canadian defensive lineman Noah Curtis.

Jackson was the Elks' nominee for Most Outstanding Defensive Player in 2025, racking up 78 defensive tackles, two sacks, an interception, and 11 passes defended. The Birmingham, Al., native will now be tied to the organization through 2027 as part of a two-year extension.

Curtis will remain in Edmonton through 2026 after missing the entire 2025 season with a torn ACL.

A fourth-round pick in the 2023 CFL Draft, Curtis has suited up in 35 games, recording 44 defensive tackles and eight sacks. The six-foot-five, 302-pound pass rusher has made starts at both defensive end and defensive tackle, making him a uniquely valuable prospect.

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/19/edmonton-elks-extend-budding-defensive-stars-kordell-jackson-noah-curtis/

The Toronto Argonauts have re-signed Canadian linebackers Ryder Varga and Jordan Herdman-Reed.

The six-foot-three, 225-pound Varga came to Toronto via trade with B.C. in January and went on to play 13 games with 10 special teams tackles in 2025.

The six-foot, 235-pound Herdman-Reed signed with Toronto in July and played seven games while registering five special teams tackles. The seven-year CFL veteran played 13 games for Saskatchewan in 2024, making eight special teams tackles.

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/19/toronto-argos-re-sign-canadian-linebackers-ryder-varga-jordan-herdman-reed/

The Edmonton Elks have extended a pair of impact defensive linemen, Canadian defensive end Robbie Smith and American defensive tackle Jordan Williams.

Smith's new deal will keep him with the team through 2027, while Williams, who was a pending free agent, is now under contract for 2026.

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/20/edmonton-elks-extend-defensive-linemen-robbie-smith-jordan-williams/

Man, if we could get Hardrick back from Sask, along with maybe Robustelli and SYQB Tommy Stevens, I'd be real happy with that.  I said last year we should have gone with Stevens over Strevvy in FA.  Add Dequoy or Katsantonis at Safety and I'd be really, really happy.

The Montreal Alouettes have locked up kicker Jose Maltos Diaz with a two-year contract extension, which will keep him with the team through 2027.

The native of Monterrey, Mexico, suited up for 18 regular-season games, both playoff games, and the Grey Cup this season. He broke the single-season franchise field-goal record previously held by David Duval by putting 58 kicks through the uprights, while leading the CFL in points (210) and finishing third in field-goal percentage (89.2 percent).

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/20/montreal-alouettes-ink-global-kicker-jose-maltos-diaz-to-two-year-extension/

Robbie Smith remains one of CFL's highest-paid players on extension with Edmonton Elks

Canadian defensive lineman Robbie Smith will remain one of the CFL's highest-paid players on his extension with the Edmonton Elks, per sources, despite coming off a down year.

The 28-year-old played only 10 regular-season games due to injury in 2025, recording 16 defensive tackles. Based on what they're paying him over the next two seasons, it appears the Elks still have full confidence in Smith.

The product of Wilfrid Laurier University received a $50,000 signing bonus to extend with the team through 2027.

Including this bonus, the new contract is worth $235,000 in hard money for 2026, including $135,000 in salary, $25,000 in non-football-related services to the team, and $15,000 in housing. He can also earn an addition $13,500 in possible incentives, including $2,500 if he records eight sacks and another $2,500 if he reaches 10 sacks.

In 2027, Smith is set to earn $240,000 in hard money with a salary increase to $145,000 and an offseason roster bonus worth $45,000. He also has the same $13,500 in possible incentives available. If he reaches all of his incentives over the next two years, Smith will earn $502,000 from the Elks.

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/20/robbie-smith-remains-one-of-cfls-highest-paid-players-on-extension-with-edmonton-elks/

Lions extend five, including National LB Chase Tataryn

VANCOUVER — The BC Lions announced on Thursday they have extended five players: Global kicker Ross Bolger, National offensive lineman Alex Berwick, National long snapper Cam Foran, National offensive lineman Connor Klassen and National linebacker Chase Tataryn.

Bolger (five-foot-11, 207 pounds) was selected fourth overall in last spring's Global Draft. The native of Laois, Ireland spent all of this past season on the practice squad. The former Gaelic Football player moved to North America in 2023 to play at Idaho State for 33 games across two seasons.

As a senior, Bolger finished 13th in the nation in net punting and was named Big Sky Special Teams Player of the Week three times. He earned an invitation to the NFL International Pathway program early in 2025.

Berwick (six-foot-two, 306 pounds) was selected in round seven (59th overall) of the 2025 CFL Draft. After emerging from training camp with a spot on the practice roster, the Ottawa native dressed in six regular season games as a reserve offensive lineman.

Alex played his entire University career at Western, suiting up in 41 games from 2021-24. Along with helping the Mustangs win a Vanier Cup and Mitchell Bowl in 2021, he earned OUA First-Team All-Star and U Sports Second-Team All-Canadian in his final year.

Foran (six-foot, 212 pounds) originally signed with the Lions ahead of 2025 training camp and made his CFL debut on September 27 in a special teams role.

Cam suited up at Acadia from 2021-24, recording 7.5 tackles. He took over as the team's full-time long snapper in 2023.

Klassen(six-foot-four, 310 pounds) is a Big River, Saskatchewan product and was taken in round four (37th overall) of last year's CFL Draft, Klassen was released by the team after suffering an injury in training camp.

Following three junior seasons with the Regina Thunder (2019, 2021-22) that saw two Prairie Conference All-Star selections, Klassen moved to U Sports and the Regina Rams from 2023-24 and served as the squad's starting right tackle for 19 games.

Tataryn (five-foot-11, 212 lbs) is a native of Saskatoon, and was taken in round six (50th overall) of last year's CFL Draft after suiting up in 28 games with the Alberta Golden Bears from 2021 to 2024, registering 139 total tackles (91 solo, 48 assisted), 11 tackles for a loss, six sacks, two pass breakups, one forced fumble and a fumble recovery.

Following 2025 training camp in Kamloops, he was released to pursue his final year of U Sports eligibility. In eight games with the Golden Bears this season, Tataryn had 55 total tackles (39 solo, 16 assisted), a pair of pass breakups, one sack, one interception and a fumble recovery in eight contests.

Saskatchewan's entire recieving corps will become Free agents , they can't re-sign them all, potential good reciever may shake out of there (again).

Wonder if Taylor Powell is going to be happy being #2 in Hamilton again, could come here and get a foot in the door and potentially become a starter 2 years from now. Guess it depends on BLM retirement plans.

Quote from: dd on November 20, 2025, 10:26:18 PMSaskatchewan's entire recieving corps will become Free agents , they can't re-sign them all, potential good reciever may shake out of there (again).

Pass on all of them.  None of them are a Dressler.  SSK will keep K.Johnson as the priority (best hands).  I don't think the rest matter, other than SSK needing a lot of NATs.  SSK has built a scheme that nearly any goofball can succeed in, especially if he's bigger/heavier for the blocking.  I would expect the ELCs stay and the rest walk if they get offers.

Quote from: dd on November 20, 2025, 10:26:18 PMWonder if Taylor Powell is going to be happy being #2 in Hamilton again, could come here and get a foot in the door and potentially become a starter 2 years from now. Guess it depends on BLM retirement plans.

I'd be all over Powell.  I would spell out exactly what you said to him -- come and dev under Zach and you're our man in 1-3 seasons.  He'd have to accept Strev-like money though.  No $$ for anything better.

Quote from: Tecno on November 21, 2025, 06:08:48 AMPass on all of them.  None of them are a Dressler.  SSK will keep K.Johnson as the priority (best hands).  I don't think the rest matter, other than SSK needing a lot of NATs.  SSK has built a scheme that nearly any goofball can succeed in, especially if he's bigger/heavier for the blocking.  I would expect the ELCs stay and the rest walk if they get offers.

You keep dissing the Riders receiving group without acknowledging they're doing it with 4 Natls, which is pretty impressive, not sure that's ever been done in modern times.  Imagine if they still had McInnis? They've built that group entirely through the draft and recruitment over a long time, Bombers #3 Sterns ended up here because he could not make the roster there, looks like Banes who beat him out will be looking for a new home soon as well.

Quote from: Tecno on November 21, 2025, 06:08:48 AMPass on all of them.  None of them are a Dressler.  SSK will keep K.Johnson as the priority (best hands).  I don't think the rest matter, other than SSK needing a lot of NATs.  SSK has built a scheme that nearly any goofball can succeed in, especially if he's bigger/heavier for the blocking.  I would expect the ELCs stay and the rest walk if they get offers.

Sam Emilus was the Roughriders' most productive/consistent receiver when he got back from injury.

 :-\

Riders draft picks win U-Sports top O-Lineman and top defensive player awards.

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/20/western-ol-riders-draft-pick-erik-andersen-wins-j-p-metras-trophy-as-top-u-sports-lineman/

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/20/saskatchewan-linebacker-riders-draft-pick-seth-hundeby-wins-presidents-trophy-as-top-u-sports-defender/

Quote from: Tecno on November 21, 2025, 06:08:48 AMPass on all of them.  None of them are a Dressler.  SSK will keep K.Johnson as the priority (best hands).  I don't think the rest matter, other than SSK needing a lot of NATs.  SSK has built a scheme that nearly any goofball can succeed in, especially if he's bigger/heavier for the blocking.  I would expect the ELCs stay and the rest walk if they get offers.

I'd be all over Powell.  I would spell out exactly what you said to him -- come and dev under Zach and you're our man in 1-3 seasons.  He'd have to accept Strev-like money though.  No $$ for anything better.

You can't let your Rider hatred cloud your talent judgement.

I'd be giddy with glee if we could find a Sam Emilus deep threat and a KSB, those are 2 QUALITY NATS that any team would want, thing is, the Riders aren't going to let them walk. Meyers is a very productive reciever for them as well, as was Robustelli, who may shake free after the FA $$ are used to sign Emilus and KSB, and I would GLADLY welcome either to our lineup. Both Meyers and Robustelli are game changers and would be an upgrade compared to our current lot.

DL Ralph Holley re-signs with Toronto Argonauts following NFL stint

American defensive tackle Ralph Holley is returning to the Toronto Argonauts following a stint in the NFL.

Holley signed with the Cleveland Browns this offseason but was waived as part of final roster cuts after training camp. He was twice brought back on the practice squad before being released both times.

The six-foot-one, 285-pound defender was a standout with the Toronto Argonauts in 2024, his first year in the CFL, recording 22 tackles, eight sacks and one forced fumble. His eight sacks tied for the league lead.

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/21/dl-ralph-holley-re-signs-with-toronto-argonauts-following-nfl-stint/

Quote from: dd on November 21, 2025, 05:38:12 PMI'd be giddy with glee if we could find a Sam Emilus deep threat and a KSB, those are 2 QUALITY NATS that any team would want, thing is, the Riders aren't going to let them walk. Meyers is a very productive reciever for them as well, as was Robustelli, who may shake free after the FA $$ are used to sign Emilus and KSB, and I would GLADLY welcome either to our lineup. Both Meyers and Robustelli are game changers and would be an upgrade compared to our current lot.

My point is the success is mostly scheme, not REC.  Any non-crap REC can work in their scheme.  It's making mediocre dime a dozen guys (and NATs!) look better than they are.  Watch some leave in FA and suck in their new teams.

KSB has been hot garbage since returning from injury.  Meyers/Robustelli are just normal dime & dozen new IMP scouting prospects.  Literally nothing special nor any reason to $$pay$$ them.  Give me Herslow any day of the week over anything ELC SSK has.

Emilus is ok, and very good "for a NAT".  Great similarities to Demski, yes.  But not worth whatever his $$ ask will be.

K.Johnson is the real talent: great hands, smart, good routes, short and deep threat, and can take abuse in the middle.  He's the only IMP there that will be an all-star going forward.

I'm not ignoring my bias.  Instead I am very aware of how the league-top OL, short-mostly scheme, and accurate QB create the illusion of "wow, great RECs!".  Part of the proof will be when they fail to get a huge payday in FA (minus the 2 good ones and maybe KSB riding the coattails of his 2-years-ago performance).

Quote from: Tecno on November 22, 2025, 01:33:55 AMMy point is the success is mostly scheme, not REC.  Any non-crap REC can work in their scheme.  It's making mediocre dime a dozen guys (and NATs!) look better than they are.  Watch some leave in FA and suck in their new teams.

KSB has been hot garbage since returning from injury.  Meyers/Robustelli are just normal dime & dozen new IMP scouting prospects.  Literally nothing special nor any reason to $$pay$$ them.  Give me Herslow any day of the week over anything ELC SSK has.

Emilus is ok, and very good "for a NAT".  Great similarities to Demski, yes.  But not worth whatever his $$ ask will be.

K.Johnson is the real talent: great hands, smart, good routes, short and deep threat, and can take abuse in the middle.  He's the only IMP there that will be an all-star going forward.

I'm not ignoring my bias.  Instead I am very aware of how the league-top OL, short-mostly scheme, and accurate QB create the illusion of "wow, great RECs!".  Part of the proof will be when they fail to get a huge payday in FA (minus the 2 good ones and maybe KSB riding the coattails of his 2-years-ago performance).

If your theory is true, then the moral of the story is--don't cheap out on an OC, get a good one, as he can devise a scheme to make your schmoe recievers look like world beaters. And we all know our scheme HAS TO change.

Quote from: dd on November 22, 2025, 03:51:19 AMIf your theory is true, then the moral of the story is--don't cheap out on an OC, get a good one, as he can devise a scheme to make your schmoe recievers look like world beaters. And we all know our scheme HAS TO change.

I somewhat agree.  However, my hunch is the whole scheme was a Mace/ODay/Mueller trio-combo baby.  Why?  Mueller has been there for years and never had this much success.

I guess it could also be Mace/ODay decided to tailor the FA/DP precisely to what Mueller was already doing.  Might be impossible to ever know.  Whatever it is, it's working.

The problem with trying this with Hogan is what is Hogan trying to do?  Who knows.  We had no identity in '25.  So even if KW/MOS want to scheme around Hogan, no one knows what that scheme would be!  If no one can figure that out, then just stack the OL and let Zach figure it all out on the field!

Keon Hatcher expects big raise, can BC afford him??

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/23/my-turn-b-c-lions-pending-free-agent-keon-hatcher-wants-contract-befitting-cfl-receiving-leader/

I don't know if the Lions have the cap room to sign Hatcher, man would it be nice to get that guy in our lineup!!

Quote from: dd on November 24, 2025, 03:13:12 PMI don't know if the Lions have the cap room to sign Hatcher, man would it be nice to get that guy in our lineup!!

Who knows how much of the 2025 SMS increase any team used. Even without that, the increase in SMS in 2025 will be also available in 2026. In that sense teams have " more " money to spend. Where they choose to spend it is all TBD.

We've discussed the possible increase validity for Oliveria for example. In theory we have more to give him but is that the best use of a higher SMS?

Bombers have about 30 potential free agents. Many will want and expect a raise. It's going to be interesting to watch how this unfolds.

Quote from: Ridermania on November 24, 2025, 12:23:09 PMKeon Hatcher expects big raise, can BC afford him??

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/23/my-turn-b-c-lions-pending-free-agent-keon-hatcher-wants-contract-befitting-cfl-receiving-leader/

Im betting they find a way maybe by playing the marketing money game again. If they dont Calgary with Adams should go after him.

Quote from: Pete on November 24, 2025, 04:54:13 PMIm betting they find a way maybe by playing the marketing money game again. If they dont Calgary with Adams should go after him.

Hard to say. Money issue aside a receiver is going to want to play in BC with a top QB that likes to go deep in  passing focused offense. Half a season indoors is not a bad attraction for a player either.

Quote from: Ridermania on November 24, 2025, 12:23:09 PMKeon Hatcher expects big raise, can BC afford him??

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/23/my-turn-b-c-lions-pending-free-agent-keon-hatcher-wants-contract-befitting-cfl-receiving-leader/

Except for Lawler at $300k the GM's have constrained elite receivers to around $225k, Hatcher made $168k last season, McInnis $250k, Cottoy $166k, they'll pay to keep Hatcher but other pieces will likely be lost.  Unfortunate for BC they're already paying the increased asking rate of a good team without the reward of a Grey Cup victory.

Quote from: Blue In BC on November 24, 2025, 04:19:33 PMWho knows how much of the 2025 SMS increase any team used. Even without that, the increase in SMS in 2025 will be also available in 2026. In that sense teams have " more " money to spend. Where they choose to spend it is all TBD.

Pretty clear every team spent to the max and some likely went over, no carry over so no sense hanging onto it for next year. Walters said himself, SMS bump went to pay healthy players camping on the 1 game in Wpg. and elsewhere.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on November 24, 2025, 05:38:40 PMPretty clear every team spent to the max and some likely went over, no carry over so no sense hanging onto it for next year. Walters said himself, SMS bump went to pay healthy players camping on the 1 game in Wpg. and elsewhere.

There is always some carry over. Not every team had a dozen players on the 1 game IR most of the year. Even we didn't do that for quite awhile.

As we've already seen, some teams are re-signing some of their potential free agents. Some of them will be getting early money from the 2025 SMS.

We'll find out eventually how many teams exceeded the SMS and by how much.

Regardless it doesn't change the fact that the 2026 SMS will be used in more of the normal way. That said, it doesn't automatically mean a player that earned $200K in 2025 now gets $250K.

Quote from: Blue In BC on November 24, 2025, 05:48:42 PMThere is always some carry over. Not every team had a dozen players on the 1 game IR most of the year. Even we didn't do that for quite awhile.

As we've already seen, some teams are re-signing some of their potential free agents. Some of them will be getting early money from the 2025 SMS.

We'll find out eventually how many teams exceeded the SMS and by how much.

Regardless it doesn't change the fact that the 2026 SMS will be used in more of the normal way. That said, it doesn't automatically mean a player that earned $200K in 2025 now gets $250K.

There is no SMS carry over to 2026, whatever has not been spent will be spent by year end.

Ticats have re-signed LS Gordon Whyte. I think he is the best at his craft.

https://www.ticats.ca/2025/11/24/tiger-cats-re-sign-veteran-ls-gordon-whyte-add-db-kendall-bohler/ (https://www.ticats.ca/2025/11/24/tiger-cats-re-sign-veteran-ls-gordon-whyte-add-db-kendall-bohler/)

Dates have been set for Touchdown Kelowna.

June 27 vs. Calgary
July 4 vs. Edmonton

https://www.bclions.com/2025/11/24/touchdown-kelowna-welcomes-stampeders-elks-to-okanagan-in-2026/ (https://www.bclions.com/2025/11/24/touchdown-kelowna-welcomes-stampeders-elks-to-okanagan-in-2026/)

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on November 24, 2025, 06:06:18 PMThere is no SMS carry over to 2026, whatever has not been spent will be spent by year end.

That's not what I said or meant. There is almost always some SMS left that is spent to re-sign players before the end of the year. That potentially creates an advantage in the 2026 season SMS since some bonus or advance money is taken from the previous SMS.

Bryant signed an extension  Dec 2 2024. Castillo singed one Nov 21 2024 as examples.

We're seeing some players being extended after the Grey Cup.  Teams using some 2025 SMS left.

Harvard Media expands national footprint by acquiring 3DownNation.

I believe they are the radio outfit that owns the Riders broadcast rights.


https://3downnation.com/2025/11/24/harvard-media-expands-national-footprint-by-acquiring-3downnation/ (https://3downnation.com/2025/11/24/harvard-media-expands-national-footprint-by-acquiring-3downnation/)

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on November 24, 2025, 08:41:05 PMHarvard Media expands national footprint by acquiring 3DownNation.

Wow!  Fringe outfit in some dude's basement just made bank then.  That'll keep the founders in gravy for quite a while.

Now... expect 3down to start having a huge green bias, assuming your guess about this group is correct.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on November 24, 2025, 05:38:40 PMPretty clear every team spent to the max and some likely went over, no carry over so no sense hanging onto it for next year. Walters said himself

I think it's a KW bluff.  I seriously doubt we spent to the +$400k cap -- even with the extra 1GIR usage.  And if we did then it's almost criminal that we overspent on mediocre players.

My bet is KW was $200k away from original cap, then spent ~$200k on 1GIR, and thus has the whole +$400k left to dole out to pre-2026 re-signings.  Assuming he now believes that the $400k is FOR REALZ.

Quote from: Ridermania on November 24, 2025, 12:23:09 PMKeon Hatcher expects big raise, can BC afford him??

He deserves it.  If I was forced to pick right now between Kenny and Keon at the same price... I might go with Keon.  Keon is more versatile and can take more punishment.  Kenny has slightly better hands and more circus.  But as we saw, circus won't always win you games.

I don't see how BC can afford McInnis AND Keon though.  McInnis didn't earn his huge $ this season.  Trade him away and sign Keon.  Some team in ratio heck will do it.

My new philosophy for WFC is no overpriced RECs -- so I don't want him.  Spend all the $ on OL -- that's the key to winning.  BC OL almost lost the WSF because of porous OL, then they lost the WDF partially because of it.  Having 2 superstar RECs didn't help Rourke much when he didn't have time to throw.

Quote from: Tecno on November 25, 2025, 08:36:40 AMHe deserves it.  If I was forced to pick right now between Kenny and Keon at the same price... I might go with Keon.  Keon is more versatile and can take more punishment.  Kenny has slightly better hands and more circus.  But as we saw, circus won't always win you games.

I don't see how BC can afford McInnis AND Keon though.  McInnis didn't earn his huge $ this season.  Trade him away and sign Keon.  Some team in ratio heck will do it.

My new philosophy for WFC is no overpriced RECs -- so I don't want him.  Spend all the $ on OL -- that's the key to winning.  BC OL almost lost the WSF because of porous OL, then they lost the WDF partially because of it.  Having 2 superstar RECs didn't help Rourke much when he didn't have time to throw.

Justin McInnis was 3rd in receiving yds league wide. if BC wants to get rid of him, he'd be my #1 target in FA.  At times he can look clumsy and slow but he puts up the numbers year after year.

Quote from: Tecno on November 25, 2025, 08:32:28 AMI think it's a KW bluff.  I seriously doubt we spent to the +$400k cap -- even with the extra 1GIR usage.  And if we did then it's almost criminal that we overspent on mediocre players.

My bet is KW was $200k away from original cap, then spent ~$200k on 1GIR, and thus has the whole +$400k left to dole out to pre-2026 re-signings.  Assuming he now believes that the $400k is FOR REALZ.

If that's the case he should be announcing a number of re-signings shortly, but so far nuthin.  Maybe with their contracts up in the air O'Shea and Walters didn't have the chance to sit down with Wade and fully re-evaluate the roster, but they should be wrapping that up shortly.

Never known Walters to bluff or make up stories, he comes across as very open and truthful, the opposite of O'Shea!

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on November 25, 2025, 06:08:56 PMJustin McInnis was 3rd in receiving yds league wide. if BC wants to get rid of him, he'd be my #1 target in FA.  At times he can look clumsy and slow but he puts up the numbers year after year.

Ya, he isn't going anywhere. He's the #1 NAT reciever a couple of seasons running, and to think Sask let him get away, and Sask has Emilus and KSB as their other NAT recievers, why the heck can't we draft like that!!!

Romano, you should be a scout for the Bombers. Those are guys that should be signed immediately, f the fine.

Quote from: dd on November 25, 2025, 10:36:00 PMYa, he isn't going anywhere. He's the #1 NAT reciever a couple of seasons running, and to think Sask let him get away, and Sask has Emilus and KSB as their other NAT recievers, why the heck can't we draft like that!!!

Because we have been (near-)last in the draft picks every season since '20?  SSK got to pick higher than us all of those seasons.  Finally, in '26, that situation will be reversed.  I hope we do better with our 1RDP than "just another NAT LBer" that we always seem to draft 852 of.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on November 25, 2025, 06:18:45 PMIf that's the case he should be announcing a number of re-signings shortly, but so far nuthin.  Maybe with their contracts up in the air O'Shea and Walters didn't have the chance to sit down with Wade and fully re-evaluate the roster, but they should be wrapping that up shortly.

I think we will get a lot of re-signings before Dec 31, and lots of bonus money moved forward to 2025.

If the Hogan-gone rumors have any merit, there could be a situation of a player or cadre of players forcing him out -- refusing to re-sign until a "real" OC is secured.  If Brady really does have a bee in his bonnet, and that bee is named Hogan, then I could see "I want to be in a place I can win cups" Brady saying "no signo until he gonzo".

Yes, this is wild fantasy, but it could be what's going on.  Need to find out more about the real situation with Hogan.  Everyone's pressers around the ESF hinted that Hogan was 100% staying.  But Brady was giving off mixed signals.

And another question: if Brady says "fire Hogan or I'm leaving", does Mafia bow to that kind of blackmail?  Now, change "Brady" to "Brady, Stan, Neuf"... would we bow to that?

It's the off-season... rumors and speculation galore!  Weeeeeee!

At this point I'd almost welcome a "Hogan is staying as OC" statement.  It would at least tell everyone where we stand and allow players to make their choices and us start re-signing our keepers.  Or, similarly, come out and say "Condell is our OC".  Just say something!

Interesting read, provides some background to the $400k SMS bump that arrived just before TC. It sounds like a lack of harmony exists between the CFL and the CFLPA currently.

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/29/cflpa-to-weigh-2027-opt-out-clause-in-cfl-cba-based-on-tsn-contract/ (https://3downnation.com/2025/11/29/cflpa-to-weigh-2027-opt-out-clause-in-cfl-cba-based-on-tsn-contract/)

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on November 30, 2025, 03:44:23 AMInteresting read, provides some background to the $400k SMS bump that arrived just before TC. It sounds like a lack of harmony exists between the CFL and the CFLPA currently.

There was ever harmony between CFL & the PA?   8)

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on November 30, 2025, 03:44:23 AMInteresting read, provides some background to the $400k SMS bump that arrived just before TC. It sounds like a lack of harmony exists between the CFL and the CFLPA currently.

https://3downnation.com/2025/11/29/cflpa-to-weigh-2027-opt-out-clause-in-cfl-cba-based-on-tsn-contract/ (https://3downnation.com/2025/11/29/cflpa-to-weigh-2027-opt-out-clause-in-cfl-cba-based-on-tsn-contract/)

Yeah, not announcing the increase early or having a plan on how to use " revenue sharing " negotiated was a mess from day 1.

Quote from: Blue In BC on November 30, 2025, 01:32:02 PMYeah, not announcing the increase early or having a plan on how to use " revenue sharing " negotiated was a mess from day 1.

" The Canadian Football League Players' Association (CFLPA) is confident that the league will not enact any future rule changes without their prior consultation.

"We were informed about these changes but not consulted," said CFLPA president Solomon Elimimian in Winnipeg. "That won't happen again. "

New commissioner, not off to a great start.

Quote from: markf on November 30, 2025, 02:47:02 PM" The Canadian Football League Players' Association (CFLPA) is confident that the league will not enact any future rule changes without their prior consultation.

"We were informed about these changes but not consulted," said CFLPA president Solomon Elimimian in Winnipeg. "That won't happen again. "

New commissioner, not off to a great start.

I've been less than impressed with Solomon Elimimian since he took over as president of the CFLPA in 2020, time to give the job back to a hard working Canadian boy. I nominate Jake Thomas!

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on November 30, 2025, 07:00:07 PMI've been less than impressed with Solomon Elimimian since he took over as president of the CFLPA in 2020, time to give the job back to a hard working Canadian boy. I nominate Jake Thomas!

😂

Quote from: markf on November 30, 2025, 02:47:02 PM"We were informed about these changes but not consulted," said CFLPA president Solomon Elimimian in Winnipeg. "That won't happen again. "

Until it does!  There was no recourse then, there will be none next time.  Nothing was stopping Johnston then, nothing will stop him next time.  Johnston doesn't give a rats butt about the players, and I don't even think the league.

Quote from: Tecno on December 01, 2025, 02:24:50 AMohnston doesn't give a rats butt about the players, and I don't even think the league.

I said it before, and I'll say it again:

I believe that MLSE is intentionally trying to torpedo the Argos, and also the CFL, so they can get an NFL franchise, which MLSE believes will draw all Canadians together to support what they will advertise and promote as "Canada's Team" - just like they did with the Blue Jays and Raptors and Leafs.  The CFL, and the Argos, are an impediment to that goal, and therefore the faster the Argos and CFL are removed, the faster MLSE gets an NFL franchise.

Quote from: VictorRomano on December 01, 2025, 01:51:03 PMI said it before, and I'll say it again:

I believe that MLSE is intentionally trying to torpedo the Argos, and also the CFL, so they can get an NFL franchise, which MLSE believes will draw all Canadians together to support what they will advertise and promote as "Canada's Team" - just like they did with the Blue Jays and Raptors and Leafs.  The CFL, and the Argos, are an impediment to that goal, and therefore the faster the Argos and CFL are removed, the faster MLSE gets an NFL franchise.

I don't know why some people think that Toronto will ever be on the radar of the NFL. Franchise fee and cost of appropriate stadium are already major cost issues. That will be true whether the CFL exists or doesn't.

The latest estimate of the franchise fee is $2.0 Billion USD. The newest stadium in Las Vegas cost $1.9 Billion USD.

Quote from: Tecno on December 01, 2025, 02:24:50 AMUntil it does!  There was no recourse then, there will be none next time.  Nothing was stopping Johnston then, nothing will stop him next time.  Johnston doesn't give a rats butt about the players, and I don't even think the league.

My guess... Just another paragraph on his resume.

Re NFL in Toronto... no doubt there are people, that would love to do that.

And I can see  Rob Ford paying for a good part of a stadium. With lots of hullabaloo and media support. And online yelling and shouting in favour of it.

I think NFLwould rather go to Mexico City at this point.

Quote from: VictorRomano on December 01, 2025, 01:51:03 PMI believe that MLSE is intentionally trying to torpedo the Argos, and also the CFL

I would believe this more if I could think of a single reason the CFL's board of governors would want to fold the league. All I can believe is that Johnston sold them on his TSN connections and his ability to get more tv money and they were willing to agree with anything to get it. I still think it's downhill from here, how much damage gets done remains to be seen.

Quote from: VictorRomano on December 01, 2025, 01:51:03 PMI said it before, and I'll say it again:

I believe that MLSE is intentionally trying to torpedo the Argos, and also the CFL, so they can get an NFL franchise, which MLSE believes will draw all Canadians together to support what they will advertise and promote as "Canada's Team" - just like they did with the Blue Jays and Raptors and Leafs.  The CFL, and the Argos, are an impediment to that goal, and therefore the faster the Argos and CFL are removed, the faster MLSE gets an NFL franchise.

...Is there a rule somewhere that forbids them from owning more than one football team? They own more than one hockey team.

If they could get an NFL team they would do so. It would require a new facility to be built. That would only be good for the CFL because the Argos could play there at the cost of an NFL budget rounding error.

This theory is BS. In fact, they have financially supported the Argos every since acquiring them and all signs suggests they simply want them to be profitable. If they were anti CFL they would have simply dumped the team years ago. Instead, they write cheques.

Not only would Toronto need a stadium but the NFL also doesnt allow corporations to own franchises.

I cant see Toronto getting an NFL franchise within the next 15-20 years.

Alot needs to happen in the meantime. The Argos playing in Toronto is a minor concern compared to the other issues.

With the current adversarial climate, can you see a Canadian NFL franchise?  Would NFL fans protest when a Canadian team visited?  Would Canadian fans boo visiting teams / anthems?

Not saying this is a deal breaker for MLSE, but still, for the NFL, do they want/need the hassel, especially when there are plenty of US spots they can go?  Or how about Dubai or Riyadh?  London?  Berlin?  Moscow? Soeul? Tokyo?

And the problem with giving Toronto a team is then Buffalo would want one.

Mike Miller to be named new Argos head coach.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/01/toronto-argonauts-to-name-mike-miller-as-new-head-coach/

Quote from: Ridermania on December 01, 2025, 11:52:42 PMMike Miller to be named new Argos head coach.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/01/toronto-argonauts-to-name-mike-miller-as-new-head-coach/

Wow, Rick Campbell must be feeling unloved.

Quote from: Ridermania on December 01, 2025, 11:52:42 PMMike Miller to be named new Argos head coach.

Well, that just made Hogan's job at least 50% safer...

Quote from: Tecno on December 02, 2025, 06:23:33 AMWell, that just made Hogan's job at least 50% safer...

I'm hoping this means Condell is the next OC.

Al's sign Tyson Philpot - Highest paid CDN receiver.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/02/montreal-alouettes-make-tyson-philpot-highest-paid-canadian-receiver-in-cfl/

This was not unexpected , he is the top NAT receiver, so pay him accordingly. Good for him

Quote from: gobombersgo on December 01, 2025, 05:01:19 PMNot only would Toronto need a stadium but the NFL also doesnt allow corporations to own franchises.

I cant see Toronto getting an NFL franchise within the next 15-20 years.

Alot needs to happen in the meantime. The Argos playing in Toronto is a minor concern compared to the other issues.

I did my research on this a number of years ago and there are significant cost impacts to anyone trying to land an NFL franchise in Toronto. I would have to research my findings (buried someone in a file cabinet) but here is what I remember.

First of all everything dollar wise must be in USD (at about 135-440% conversion rate today).

- The current stadium does not qualify in terms of seating numbers - new stadium would need to be built.
- Transfer fees or new franchise fees that would have to be paid will run into multi millions.
- The NFL requires new teams or a change in franchise to put into escrow 7 years (maybe 10 years) operating budget to ensure that the franchise lasts that long. This is a big ticket item.

So getting an NFL team in the Big Smoke just is not going to happen IMHO!

Quote from: Ridermania on December 02, 2025, 02:35:39 PMAl's sign Tyson Philpot - Highest paid CDN receiver.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/02/montreal-alouettes-make-tyson-philpot-highest-paid-canadian-receiver-in-cfl/

That's a lot of money.

Quote from: Ridermania on December 02, 2025, 02:35:39 PMAl's sign Tyson Philpot - Highest paid CDN receiver.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/02/montreal-alouettes-make-tyson-philpot-highest-paid-canadian-receiver-in-cfl/

Wowsers, $275,000 with a $100k signing bonus, that upsets the apple cart as most GM's were working to keep elite receiver pay around $225k. Hopefully this doesn't increase Demski's price beyond the $225k he currently earns, the team has been paying him a premium for many years and he' isn't getting any younger.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 02, 2025, 06:17:11 PMWowsers, $275,000 with a $100k signing bonus, that upsets the apple cart as most GM's were working to keep elite receiver pay around $225k. Hopefully this doesn't increase Demski's price beyond the $225k he currently earns, the team has been paying him a premium for many years and he' isn't getting any younger.

Looks like the Als used some of the 2025 SMS increase left with $100K singing bonus.  I don't know what Philpot earned in 2025 but in that sense it may be a similar SMS hit for 2026. 

He extended a year in 2025 from his original ELC. Just guessing but maybe he was at $175K for his 4th year? Either way, he's a top receiver regardless of nationality.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 02, 2025, 08:20:45 PMLooks like the Als used some of the 2025 SMS increase left with $100K singing bonus.  I don't know what Philpot earned in 2025 but in that sense it may be a similar SMS hit for 2026. 

He extended a year in 2025 from his original ELC. Just guessing but maybe he was at $175K for his 4th year? Either way, he's a top receiver regardless of nationality.

It's a bit of a risk, Philpot has missed significant time due to injury, participating in only 34 of 54 games over the last 3 seasons.

Huff defects to the Argos.

John Hufnagel to join Toronto Argonauts in senior advisory role[/url]

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/02/john-hufnagel-to-join-toronto-argonauts-in-senior-advisory-role/ (https://3downnation.com/2025/12/02/john-hufnagel-to-join-toronto-argonauts-in-senior-advisory-role/)

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 02, 2025, 09:13:47 PMHuff defects to the Argos.

John Hufnagel to join Toronto Argonauts in senior advisory role[/url]

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/02/john-hufnagel-to-join-toronto-argonauts-in-senior-advisory-role/ (https://3downnation.com/2025/12/02/john-hufnagel-to-join-toronto-argonauts-in-senior-advisory-role/)

That is a big surprise.

Dave Dickensen can take ALL the credit, and blame now.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 02, 2025, 09:13:47 PMHuff defects to the Argos.

John Hufnagel to join Toronto Argonauts in senior advisory role[/url]

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/02/john-hufnagel-to-join-toronto-argonauts-in-senior-advisory-role/ (https://3downnation.com/2025/12/02/john-hufnagel-to-join-toronto-argonauts-in-senior-advisory-role/)

wow.  never thought i would see that - thought he was a Stamp lifer. 

Quote from: The Zipp on December 02, 2025, 10:03:44 PMwow.  never thought i would see that - thought he was a Stamp lifer. 

Indeed that is surprising, shocking acutallym=, but  i guess, he's done everything he can in Calgary, still,  I thought Huffer bled red, nope, now its blue!!

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 02, 2025, 09:13:47 PMHuff defects to the Argos.

John Hufnagel to join Toronto Argonauts in senior advisory role[/url]

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/02/john-hufnagel-to-join-toronto-argonauts-in-senior-advisory-role/ (https://3downnation.com/2025/12/02/john-hufnagel-to-join-toronto-argonauts-in-senior-advisory-role/)

Just a strange move. Whatever huffer is kinda of now.

Quote from: dd on December 02, 2025, 10:49:32 PMIndeed that is surprising, shocking acutallym=, but  i guess, he's done everything he can in Calgary, still,  I thought Huffer bled red, nope, now its blue!!

As HC and GM he did well but as President of the Stamps for over 10 years did he really succeed?  Compared to what Wade did in Wpg off the field, the answer is no. Jay McNeil took over as president and introduced the Stampede Bowl in his first year to try and raise their profile and improve attendance.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 02, 2025, 06:17:11 PMWowsers, $275,000 with a $100k signing bonus, that upsets the apple cart as most GM's were working to keep elite receiver pay around $225k. Hopefully this doesn't increase Demski's price beyond the $225k he currently earns, the team has been paying him a premium for many years and he' isn't getting any younger.

I wonder if this is what Brady now sees as his comparable? Not sure I would want to pay him that much. But I am also tired of losing a few of our best players every year because we refuse to pay high salaries.

The cap for 2026 is likely going to be at least 800k larger than in 2025.

The 400k bump that wasn't used prior to free agency and likely another bump (hopefully announced earlier than last year).

The salaries we are used to seeing are going to increase.

Quote from: dd on December 02, 2025, 04:49:11 PMThis was not unexpected , he is the top NAT receiver, so pay him accordingly. Good for him

Philpot can do Kenny-like catches (see ESF), and he's semi-versatile.  He's like a Demski, but with circus, and much younger.  If Demski was 8 years younger he'd probably be getting closer to that kind of money, too.

Personally, I like them both.  It would be hard to choose between them.  But if Demski remains closer to $200 than $300, I'm taking Demski.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 02, 2025, 09:13:47 PMHuff defects to the Argos.

John Hufnagel to join Toronto Argonauts in senior advisory role[/url]

Put me down in the "pigs must be flying" camp, too.  This is insane.  The only thing I can think of is he was kind of ousted by the owners.  Maybe they got tired of losing and empty stands?

Or maybe the idea was he'd retire (he's getting quite old and haggard) and the old codger is doing the "I'm not dead yet!" routine.

My only question is: where are teams getting all the coaches cap space to hire all of these "advisors"?  Same question to WFC with Hall/Jarius.  I smell funny business.  Huff goes from massive pay day head honcho in CGY to be lowly "advisor" in TOR at $100k (or whatever)?  Explain how that makes sense.

Maybe "advisors" are outside the cap?  That would make a lot of sense...

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 02, 2025, 06:17:11 PMWowsers, $275,000 with a $100k signing bonus

It would be a darn shame if Philpot got a season-ender in week 3, a la Schoen... Would really hurt their 2026 campaign, a la WFC 2025...  just saying!  (And while I'm coming up with my Christmas list, how about the same for SSK?)

;D  ;D  ;D  ;D  :o

Quote from: Tecno on December 03, 2025, 06:58:25 AMPut me down in the "pigs must be flying" camp, too.  This is insane.  The only thing I can think of is he was kind of ousted by the owners.  Maybe they got tired of losing and empty stands?

Or maybe the idea was he'd retire (he's getting quite old and haggard) and the old codger is doing the "I'm not dead yet!" routine.

My only question is: where are teams getting all the coaches cap space to hire all of these "advisors"?  Same question to WFC with Hall/Jarius.  I smell funny business.  Huff goes from massive pay day head honcho in CGY to be lowly "advisor" in TOR at $100k (or whatever)?  Explain how that makes sense.

Maybe "advisors" are outside the cap?  That would make a lot of sense...

Just the late career Wally Buono move of wondering around collecting a pay check from desperate teams.

Advisors must be outside the cap, but maybe a team like Toronto who doesn't have a lot of people in place needs people to fill in the gaps.

Quote from: Jesse on December 02, 2025, 11:59:42 PMThe cap for 2026 is likely going to be at least 800k larger than in 2025.

The 400k bump that wasn't used prior to free agency and likely another bump (hopefully announced earlier than last year).

The salaries we are used to seeing are going to increase.

I doubt there is an additional SMS increase beyond that increase from 2025. There is a question about how much of the 2025 increase is left for any team that they will use before the end of the year.

Obviously some salaries are going to go up. It doesn't go far when a small handful of players are getting $100K increases. Montreal has done that with 2 players already.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 02, 2025, 06:16:54 PMThat's a lot of money.

The Als also signed OL Lestage for 3 years at a total cost of $750k yesterday, making him one of the highest-paid non-QBs in the league.  Can't see where they're gonna have a lot of extra cash for FA when you're paying two different guys at the top of their positional salary grid....unless they simply don't care about the cap.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/01/montreal-alouettes-make-pier-olivier-lestage-one-of-cfls-highest-paid-non-quarterbacks-sources/

Quote from: Tecno on December 03, 2025, 06:58:25 AMPut me down in the "pigs must be flying" camp, too.  This is insane.  The only thing I can think of is he was kind of ousted by the owners.  Maybe they got tired of losing and empty stands?

Or maybe the idea was he'd retire (he's getting quite old and haggard) and the old codger is doing the "I'm not dead yet!" routine.

My only question is: where are teams getting all the coaches cap space to hire all of these "advisors"?  Same question to WFC with Hall/Jarius.  I smell funny business.  Huff goes from massive pay day head honcho in CGY to be lowly "advisor" in TOR at $100k (or whatever)?  Explain how that makes sense.

Maybe "advisors" are outside the cap?  That would make a lot of sense...

Everyone above the GM is exempt from the coaches cap including team presidents, their salary would fall under the operational budget which has no limits.

Lions make Hatcher, highest paid receiver in the CFL.

The BC Lions have signed 2025 All-CFL wide receiver Keon Hatcher Sr. to a two-year contract extension, the team announced on Wednesday.

The deal is worth a guaranteed $630K and includes a $125K signing bonus, according to TSN's Farhan Lalji, and makes Hatcher the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/03/b-c-lions-sign-top-cfl-receiver-keon-hatcher-to-multi-year-contract-extension/

Quote from: Ridermania on December 03, 2025, 07:24:08 PMLions make Hatcher, highest paid receiver in the CFL.

The BC Lions have signed 2025 All-CFL wide receiver Keon Hatcher Sr. to a two-year contract extension, the team announced on Wednesday.

The deal is worth a guaranteed $630K and includes a $125K signing bonus, according to TSN's Farhan Lalji, and makes Hatcher the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/03/b-c-lions-sign-top-cfl-receiver-keon-hatcher-to-multi-year-contract-extension/

Insanity. $315K per season? Yikes. That has to be at least a $100K increase if not more.

Lions appear to have some of the 2025 SMS left over as well.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 03, 2025, 07:39:36 PMInsanity. $315K per season? Yikes. That has to be at least a $100K increase if not more.

Lions appear to have some of the 2025 SMS left over as well.

Maybe not and I can't see how they have anything left, but what if the contract doesn't kick in until Jan. 1st?

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 03, 2025, 07:39:36 PMInsanity. $315K per season? Yikes. That has to be at least a $100K increase if not more.

Lions appear to have some of the 2025 SMS left over as well.

Receiver salaries are leaping back up to Chris Jones level insanity, Gino Lewis signed with the Elks for $320k in 2023, last season with the RB's he played for $223k.

The cap increase is going to the elite players. Predictable. This is far from the last big contract we will see signed this off season.

$315K for a receiver is insane.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 03, 2025, 08:00:33 PMMaybe not and I can't see how they have anything left, but what if the contract doesn't kick in until Jan. 1st?

Usually a signing bonus is early money being used from remaining SMS paid before the end of the season. We see that every off season. Like most teams, it doesn't appear the Lions padded their 1 game IR to the extent of consuming an extra $400K IMO.

Essentially it's half the reason players get re-signed in December for big raises. It just turns out that bigger is even bigger than normal due to the $400K increase instead of the usual $50K annual SMS increase.

Quote from: Waffler on December 03, 2025, 08:26:08 PMThe cap increase is going to the elite players. Predictable. This is far from the last big contract we will see signed this off season.

Agreed. The additional SMS will go about 6 - 8 players or less. It's good for them but changes nothing. Same players just getting more money.

The issue is that many of the other players will consider changing teams for another $10K-$20K. The teams spending the $400K on the stars means losing others possibly.

We'll see how many players change teams etc.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 03, 2025, 07:39:36 PMInsanity. $315K per season? Yikes. That has to be at least a $100K increase if not more.

Lions appear to have some of the 2025 SMS left over as well.

be interesting to see if there are more details, ie money hid behind marketing money similar to what they did with Roarke. Some teams are gonna have sms money from ly due to the extra 400k that wasn't budgeted in, The cflpa should have been making more noise about this to ensure that it isn't just given to the elite players. The smart teams would have set some of this aside just for this purpose, I wouldn't be surprised if mtrl did this and hence the 100k signing bonus given to Philpot.

Quote from: Pete on December 03, 2025, 09:00:45 PMbe interesting to see if there are more details, ie money hid behind marketing money similar to what they did with Roarke. Some teams are gonna have sms money from ly due to the extra 400k that wasn't budgeted in, The cflpa should have been making more noise about this to ensure that it isn't just given to the elite players. The smart teams would have set some of this aside just for this purpose, I wouldn't be surprised if mtrl did this and hence the 100k signing bonus given to Philpot.

That's always been the question. The CFLPA negotiated an increase to the SMS based on increased revenue. Didn't they have a plan on how to use it?

I've suggested a simple solution would be to add 2 - 4 players to the AR. More jobs is a better plan than just giving a few players more money.

More players mean better in game injury protection and development of those players that get game experience.

I'm shocked that anyone is surprised by this. Increased salary cap + marketing money = increased salary.

The stars will get the lions share.

Kenny and Geno hit 300k under the old cap. Hatcher could have gotten more in FA.

Quote from: blue_gold_84 on December 03, 2025, 08:34:08 PM$315K for a receiver is insane.

Brady is going to demand $300k, just watch.


$240k for an interior O-lineman is also insane, which is what the Als offered Pier-Olivier Lestage. Time to trend away from 3 Natl's on the O-line and find big young Imports to do the job at half the cost, contingent on finding skilled Natl's to play other positions of course.

You start to understand why the CFL BOG would be happy to do away with the ratio, bottom line it messes up their concept of having an abundant supply of cheap replaceable labour that would significantly lower their operating costs.

Brady's contract will need to beat Philpot's 275k by a significant margin. He's been way more impactful for a longer period. Multiple awards to his name.

He's going to argue he has great production than Hatcher as well, so his initial ask is probably going to be closer to 350k. He'll listen to all offers and we'll see how much of a deal he'll give us, if any.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 03, 2025, 11:57:08 PMBrady is going to demand $300k, just watch.


$240k for an interior O-lineman is also insane, which is what the Als offered Pier-Olivier Lestage. Time to trend away from 3 Natl's on the O-line and find big young Imports to do the job at half the cost, contingent on finding skilled Natl's to play other positions of course.

You start to understand why the CFL BOG would be happy to do away with the ratio, bottom line it messes up their concept of having an abundant supply of cheap replaceable labour that would significantly lower their operating costs.

If he wants $300K I'd let him walk and thank him for his service.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 04, 2025, 12:58:27 AMIf he wants $300K I'd let him walk and thank him for his service.

And it's fine to do that in certain instances(we did it with Lawler), but we've also seen our team get worse by watching our talent leave for higher pay elsewhere.

Every team is going to have players making this much money. You're not putting yourself at a disadvantage by keeping your best players.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 04, 2025, 12:58:27 AMIf he wants $300K I'd let him walk and thank him for his service.

I'd go $300k, he's the hometown face of the franchise along with Demski, and he's lived up to his side of the bargain.  They'd lose a lot of marketing goodwill and the most complete RB in the league if he was replaced with a cheap import.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 04, 2025, 02:15:55 AMI'd go $300k, he's the hometown face of the franchise along with Demski, and he's lived up to his side of the bargain.  They'd lose a lot of marketing goodwill and the most complete RB in the league if he was replaced with a cheap import.

You also know what you are getting with Brady, as opposed to the free agent flops Walters reeled in last off season.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 04, 2025, 02:15:55 AMI'd go $300k, he's the hometown face of the franchise along with Demski, and he's lived up to his side of the bargain.  They'd lose a lot of marketing goodwill and the most complete RB in the league if he was replaced with a cheap import.

It depends on the import that might replace him. An example would be Rankin from Edmonton. I get the hometown Canadian player but I think we need to upgrade the OL. We don't need to start 9 Canadians.

Bombers have a history of having good import RB's. Reaves, Mimbs and Roberts to name a few. The team hasn't given a serious look at recruiting RB's since he arrived and that's an issue that can be changed.

I'd be sorry to see him go but something has to give. The goal is to win the Grey Cup.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 04, 2025, 02:15:55 AMI'd go $300k, he's the hometown face of the franchise along with Demski, and he's lived up to his side of the bargain.  They'd lose a lot of marketing goodwill and the most complete RB in the league if he was replaced with a cheap import.

Brady has never had the breakaway speed that some RB's have. I mentioned Rankin in another post. He was on an ELC and I'd say he might be the most / more complete RB dual threat.

He just came off his ELC and is probably a potential free agent. He'll want a raise so that's an interesting question and comparison to see what happens.

It's a tough decision both sides of the Brady issue have good points.

The team moved on from Andrew...

I think he stays.,

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 04, 2025, 01:05:41 PMBrady has never had the breakaway speed that some RB's have. I mentioned Rankin in another post. He was on an ELC and I'd say he might be the most / more complete RB dual threat.

He just came off his ELC and is probably a potential free agent. He'll want a raise so that's an interesting question and comparison to see what happens.

Brady is a very good blocker which is important in a passing league. I haven't watched Rankin enough to know how he does in that role. Any idea?

Quote from: markf on December 04, 2025, 02:24:05 PMI think he stays.,

I would say so. Didn't Miller step in on the last contract and tell Walters to pay him?  What's changed?

Quote from: Waffler on December 04, 2025, 02:44:48 PMI would say so. Didn't Miller step in on the last contract and tell Walters to pay him?  What's changed?

Brady might have changed. He took less to stay here before (though it is expensive to move, so maybe the value evens out). But maybe now he wants to max out on perhaps his last top end contract. The team has changed. We're not the class of the league anymore and he says he wants to win championships. Perhaps he believes another team gives him a better shot.

Just like last time, I don't think there's a better fit than Brady and Winnipeg. We are always committed to the run and he becomes more and more involved in the passing game each year. The hometown factor has value for the player and the team. It just makes too much sense.

That said, Brady had a very high opinion of his play. He always has. He was far and away the highest paid RB in the league the last two years. But he still made comments that indicated he more than earned his deal and expects more. It'll be a tough negotiation and one that won't be settled until FA when he hears other teams' offers. So there's a huge domino effect that makes it difficult to sign other players until we know if we're retaining Brady or not. And I feel like Walters would be willing to draw a hard line and walk away, but Wade Miller sees the off the field value of having Brady and will influence things as well. 

Quote from: bunker on December 04, 2025, 02:36:32 PMBrady is a very good blocker which is important in a passing league. I haven't watched Rankin enough to know how he does in that role. Any idea?

That's a fair question and one I don't know the answer. Rankin was just an example. However when / if a team has a RB that has that ability it slows down the pass rush somewhat. The fear of speed by the defence alters the game plan.

I don't think Roberts could block but his elusiveness struck fear into opponents.

Brady fits / is a major part of our game plan and team make up. I hope he stays.

Hypothetically, who has the $ to pay Brady? Montreal and BC, I'd say no. The Riders have a ton of big name guys to try to sign. Hamilton has some bigger contracts.

Quote from: RebusRankin on December 04, 2025, 04:48:41 PMHypothetically, who has the $ to pay Brady? Montreal and BC, I'd say no. The Riders have a ton of big name guys to try to sign. Hamilton has some bigger contracts.

Most teams have 20+ free agents. Everyone has the money.

I'd say Montreal has probably taken themselves out of the running, but at least 2 teams thought they had a chance last year and put in bigger bids than ours. No reason to think it wont happen again.

Quote from: RebusRankin on December 04, 2025, 04:48:41 PMHypothetically, who has the $ to pay Brady? Montreal and BC, I'd say no. The Riders have a ton of big name guys to try to sign. Hamilton has some bigger contracts.

Not only that, which team will want that kind of balance between run and pass offence? It's our bread and butter, but Rourke, VAJ, Alexander, BLM are pass oriented.

The reality is where does any team spend money to improve the roster. Money is also spent to retain top players but it also has to find ways to improve other areas.

I don't expect our entire 2025 roster to return or just assume we spend the extra $400K in those salaries. Much has been said about where we should replace players as well as where should we retain players.

Most retention and decisions happens before free agency hits. As that falls into place, we see some additions during free agency.

All of us can name a dozen players we'd like to add beyond our own roster. We'll land some but who or how much it costs is TBD.

My tinfoil hat theory is that the apparent OC search is being driven to appease Brady into signing/making here a more attractive place to sign.

IMO I felt Brady was underutilized under Hogan all year and it was one of my primary pain points with Hogan. Brady will always say he's not getting the ball often enough.

Even if my hunch isn't true, that effort and willingness to adjust and get better should go a ways for him and other FAs in general.

Quote from: blue_or_die on December 04, 2025, 06:06:35 PMIMO I felt Brady was underutilized under Hogan all year and it was one of my primary pain points with Hogan. Brady will always say he's not getting the ball often enough.

When you're arguably the best RB in the entire league and getting less than 15 touches in 6 out of 18 games (and 3 with less than 10 touches) in 2025, I'd be pissed, too.  Brady was criminally underused by Hogan as a weapon in 2025, and that alone should be enough to get Hogan fired.

T. Harris re-signs a 1 year extension in Regina. Retirement held off for at least another year.

In Toronto Chad Kelly has been named the starter in 2026 for the Argos. I'd take that to mean Arbuckle will move on but no teams looking for a new # 1 so who offers the most for a #2? Since Kelly's SMS was off the books on 6 game IR, I don't think they can afford to keep Arbuckle IMO.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 04, 2025, 07:44:14 PMT. Harris re-signs a 1 year extension in Regina. Retirement held off for at least another year.

He'll be making bank when you add his 2026 salary to CPP + OAS which I believe he's eligible to collect this year.

Harris made $450 last season, still haven't heard how much he signed for but it will be very team friendly.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/04/saskatchewan-roughriders-re-sign-grey-cup-mvp-trevor-harris-for-2026/

Quote from: Ridermania on December 04, 2025, 08:08:23 PMHarris made $450 last season, still haven't heard how much he signed for but it will be very team friendly.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/04/saskatchewan-roughriders-re-sign-grey-cup-mvp-trevor-harris-for-2026/

Winning the Grey Cup probably gets him another $50K? That's seems reasonable IMO but we'll hear more details in the next week or so. This should mean Emilus will want to stay and will re-sign soon.

Quote from: VictorRomano on December 04, 2025, 07:43:03 PMWhen you're arguably the best RB in the entire league and getting less than 15 touches in 6 out of 18 games (and 3 with less than 10 touches) in 2025, I'd be pissed, too.  Brady was criminally underused by Hogan as a weapon in 2025, and that alone should be enough to get Hogan fired.

He didn't play 18 games though, he played in 14. And he had the 2nd most yards from scrimmage in the entire league.

Over the course of the entire year, Brady was used as much as he ever was and set a career high in receiving yards in only 14 games. In individual games, there were definitely certain situations in which he wasn't utilized, but we also turned the ball over like crazy and put ourselves in early scoring deficits.

Ya, Brady's situation is an interesting one - he wants more money, I want him to not fumble the ball so much.

We use the run more than any other team in the league, so if we can't give him what he wants, what makes him think another team, that doesn't use the run as much as we do, can??

So Harris takes a team friendly deal and Zach is still happy to be overpaid?

Quote from: RebusRankin on December 04, 2025, 04:48:41 PMHypothetically, who has the $ to pay Brady? Montreal and BC, I'd say no. The Riders have a ton of big name guys to try to sign. Hamilton has some bigger contracts.

Obviously Toronto, and they'd take Willy too in a heartbeat if given the opportunity.  After they ditched Carey in TC, the Argo running attack continued downhill throughout the season.  I couldn't even tell you who their #1 RB is right now.

Quote from: Ridermania on December 04, 2025, 08:08:23 PMHarris made $450 last season, still haven't heard how much he signed for but it will be very team friendly.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/04/saskatchewan-roughriders-re-sign-grey-cup-mvp-trevor-harris-for-2026/

You're dreaming, the shoe is now on the other foot and it's about to boot Jeremy O'Day up the ***. T. Harris is done suffering for Sask. he wants to establish his true style.

Common items that represent his bling include:

Chains/Necklaces: Thick, heavy gold or silver chains, especially diamond-studded "iced out" Cuban links.

Pendants: Large, custom pendants, which can feature dollar signs, religious icons, brand logos, or personalized nameplates, often covered in diamonds or other sparkling stones.

Watches: Large, "iced out" watches, often featuring elaborate designs and covered in diamonds to catch the eye and signify success.

Rings/Bracelets: Substantial rings and bracelets, similarly adorned with precious metals and stones.
   
Grillz: Gold or platinum coverings worn over the teeth, sometimes also featuring diamonds or other gems.

Quote from: RebusRankin on December 05, 2025, 12:18:31 AMSo Harris takes a team friendly deal and Zach is still happy to be overpaid?

Who says he took a team friendly deal?

Quote from: Jesse on December 05, 2025, 01:10:50 AMWho says he took a team friendly deal?

Speculation on my part but he took less in 2025 and he discussed taking a team friendly deal then.

Quote from: RebusRankin on December 05, 2025, 02:43:19 AMSpeculation on my part but he took less in 2025 and he discussed taking a team friendly deal then.

Was it team friendly by choice or because he was 39 and had only played one full season in the previous 6 years with zero playoff success?

Quote from: RebusRankin on December 04, 2025, 04:48:41 PMHypothetically, who has the $ to pay Brady? Montreal and BC, I'd say no. The Riders have a ton of big name guys to try to sign. Hamilton has some bigger contracts.

If Brady really wants to bail to be with a team "that can win GCs" then he is limiting his choices to BC, CGY, SSK, MTL.  SSK already has their guy and doesn't need the ratio help.  CGY is a run-first team (under Dickenson T.G.) and could use the ratio help... if anyone makes a big play for Brady, it'd be them.

MTL I think is happy with their Scott ELC wunderkind.  BC is a pass-first team with no ratio needs -- I can't see them being interested blowing $300k+.

(HAM will never get to a cup with BLM, so count them out.  And TOR is now in full rebuild mode.  OTT/EDM, nothing needs to be said.)

So CGY or WPG.  That's it.  We just need to get within $35k of CGY's offer and he'll probably stay.

Quote from: Pete on December 03, 2025, 09:00:45 PMbe interesting to see if there are more details, ie money hid behind marketing money similar to what they did with Roarke.

You bet.  The pundit leak was careful in its wording.  "hard money", not "salary".  MMM would count as "hard money".  They did the same misdirection when announcing Rourke in last FA -- gave the "hard money" first, and only told us about the $200k MMM later.

I bet Hatcher is $100k MMM easy.  Maybe $150k.

I would hope we sign Brady with $100k MMM to ease the SMS pain.  It's super easy with Brady -- just sponsor/video-record every dog-saving trip of his.  Voila -- justified MMM.

Using the MM to offset Brady's salary is a good idea.

Quote from: Tecno on December 05, 2025, 09:42:58 AMIf Brady really wants to bail to be with a team "that can win GCs" then he is limiting his choices to BC, CGY, SSK, MTL.  SSK already has their guy and doesn't need the ratio help.  CGY is a run-first team (under Dickenson T.G.) and could use the ratio help... if anyone makes a big play for Brady, it'd be them.

MTL I think is happy with their Scott ELC wunderkind.  BC is a pass-first team with no ratio needs -- I can't see them being interested blowing $300k+.

(HAM will never get to a cup with BLM, so count them out.  And TOR is now in full rebuild mode.  OTT/EDM, nothing needs to be said.)

So CGY or WPG.  That's it.  We just need to get within $35k of CGY's offer and he'll probably stay.

Dickenson has never been the biggest spender, it goes against the Stamps philosophy of being cheap.

Would appreciate clarification on the acronym of MMM or MM in relation to contracts, nothing with Google

Love the Bombers and great athletes like Brady ...... however Walters is in tough and we already have Peterson

Riders sign QB Tommy Stevens for two more seasons.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/05/mr-automatic-saskatchewan-roughriders-extend-short-yardage-specialist-tommy-stevens-through-2027/

Quote from: Ridermania on December 05, 2025, 07:20:48 PMRiders sign QB Tommy Stevens for two more seasons.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/05/mr-automatic-saskatchewan-roughriders-extend-short-yardage-specialist-tommy-stevens-through-2027/

Dang.  I was hoping he would hit FA and we might be able to take a run at him.

Quote from: VictorRomano on December 05, 2025, 07:29:43 PMDang.  I was hoping he would hit FA and we might be able to take a run at him.

Nah far too one dimensional, Strev. had more upside than Stevens, he can't even pretend to be a backup QB.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 05, 2025, 07:49:13 PMNah far too one dimensional, Strev. had more upside than Stevens.

12 pass completions in 68 games. Maybe he should switch to a DE with his size and speed. Or learn to block as a FB.  lol

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 05, 2025, 09:17:11 PM12 pass completions in 68 games. Maybe he should switch to a DE with his size and speed. Or learn to block as a FB.  lol

Yes excellent SY guy. But your right. 68 games, 12/21 for 83 yards.

Quote from: JockitchwithRich on December 05, 2025, 05:37:09 PMWould appreciate clarification on the acronym of MMM or MM in relation to contracts, nothing with Google

Love the Bombers and great athletes like Brady ...... however Walters is in tough and we already have Peterson

MM = marketing money I believe.

Not sure on MMM though. Maxmimum? Minimum?

Quote from: DCM on December 06, 2025, 03:31:19 AMMM = marketing money I believe.

Not sure on MMM though. Maxmimum? Minimum?

I added the extra M when Rourke first blew it wide open:

Magic Marketing Money

"Magic" as in bogus and fairy dust complete cheating the CFL allows to work around the SMS being too low to lure super high end players like Rourke.  Show me what Rourke did in '25 to earn $200k MMM.  I rest my case.

Now let's cheat too, WFC has the biggest war chest -- especially after hosting a completely packed GC!  Revamp Zach to get $200k of his existing contract in MMM, and give Brady $150k MMM so his SMS hit is only $200k tops.

Quote from: Ridermania on December 05, 2025, 07:20:48 PMRiders sign QB Tommy Stevens for two more seasons.

Smart move.  SSK learned (stole) from WPG that you need a great 97%+ SY guy to win playoffs/cups.

However, Stevens may have upped his ask, as he's now considered the best SY specialist bar none due to his size.  This may be hurting SSK SMS seeing as how they also have to carry "real #2" Maier, who also isn't cheap (as far as lame #2's go).

If they have to pay T.Harris more than his discount salary, they'll quickly have one of the most expensive QB rooms.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 05, 2025, 05:04:47 PMDickenson has never been the biggest spender, it goes against the Stamps philosophy of being cheap.

You are correct.  As such I revise my theory to only WPG can/will sign Brady.  There, everyone can stop worrying now.  KW will get it done, and probably for $275k SMS hit.

In any negotiation I would remind Brady how many times he's coughed up the ball, sometimes in critical games like the ESF when we were about to run away with the win.  And he's getting far less YPC than Oullette because a) he has a worse OL, and b) he doesn't have the magic coach AH33 and can't shed tacklers like AH used to.

As such Scott might be a better RB (right now, I won't speak long term), and Rankin too, and they are/were ELC IMPs!  Whatever premium we pay Brady is for his hometown hero status (which is worth it) and the passport (which is also worth it).  But nothing is worth $325k-$350k.  I'd take Oullette and his best buddy AH33 in tandem for under $200k before wasting $350k of SMS.  That said, if we can put $150k on the BC MMM plan, then by all means pay Brady $350k.

Maybe Brady to the Riders to be coached by AH33. 

Quote from: Ridermania on December 06, 2025, 01:06:06 PMMaybe Brady to the Riders to be coached by AH33. 

This would make sense in the event Oliveira wants to be disowned by an entire province.

Quote from: Ridermania on December 06, 2025, 01:06:06 PMMaybe Brady to the Riders to be coached by AH33. 

The Riders will have trouble re-signing their own guys, don't think they will be players in FA.  The shoe is now on the other foot, you are about to experience the pain of losing players you really want to keep.

Just trying to keep up on all the comments during the off season.

I know Brady won't be coming over to the Riders.

Honestly hope him and Demski stay with the Bombers. 

Quote from: Ridermania on December 06, 2025, 01:06:06 PMMaybe Brady to the Riders to be coached by AH33. 

Even if they let AJ Ouellette walk that's only a $160k saving, well short of Brady's price tag.

Riders re-signing of Harris was on team friendly deal. $190K signing bonus ( 2025 SMS money ). That gives them a low SMS hit in 2026. Who said no teams have any SMS left?

Quote from: Ridermania on December 06, 2025, 01:06:06 PMMaybe Brady to the Riders to be coached by AH33.

I know you said you're joking, but the reason that can't happen (whether in the green city or the b&g city) is the bridges were burnt.  AH & Brady are now like oil & water.  That's why AH could have never been retained or come back to WPG as our RB coach (even beyond the burnt bridges with KW & MOS).

The decision was made to make this "Brady's team", and the "old" had to be disposed of.  I hope Brady realizes a lot of this is due to him, and he got what he wanted, and was left unobstructed, he was given the keys to the team... he better remember this when he makes his final decision.

That and the fact he's not that good... The CFL NAT RB talent from top down is Cornish, AH, Brady.  He'd good, but he's not Cornish.

Good explanation Techno!  Thanks

 'They are supposed to know the rules like me.'

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/06/they-are-supposed-to-know-the-rules-andre-proulx-admits-cfl-replay-centre-blew-call-in-elks-stampeders-finale/

Surprised Proulx would say it out loud.

Quote from: Waffler on December 07, 2025, 03:31:55 PM'They are supposed to know the rules like me.'

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/06/they-are-supposed-to-know-the-rules-andre-proulx-admits-cfl-replay-centre-blew-call-in-elks-stampeders-finale/

Surprised Proulx would say it out loud.

Interesting isn't it?will he be fined?

More importantly, It's not a complicated rule.

Quote from: Tecno on December 07, 2025, 06:48:04 AMI know you said you're joking, but the reason that can't happen (whether in the green city or the b&g city) is the bridges were burnt.  AH & Brady are now like oil & water.  That's why AH could have never been retained or come back to WPG as our RB coach (even beyond the burnt bridges with KW & MOS).

The decision was made to make this "Brady's team", and the "old" had to be disposed of.  I hope Brady realizes a lot of this is due to him, and he got what he wanted, and was left unobstructed, he was given the keys to the team... he better remember this when he makes his final decision.

That and the fact he's not that good... The CFL NAT RB talent from top down is Cornish, AH, Brady.  He'd good, but he's not Cornish.

I agree, he's not THAT good. He gets a ton of reps so he puts up the stats. Peterson could do the same thing at a fraction of the cost. You can't tell me Brady is worth $160k+ more than Oulette, no way. I'd take Stevie Scott in a heartbeat and his entry level contract anyday.

I'd pay Brady what it takes, and use marketing money to make the salary cap structure work. We are the most financially successful franchise in the league. Brady is a hometown star who is an excellent running back, generally pretty durable, has good hands as a receiver, and is also a good blocker, which is crucial in a passing league. It would be a crime to lose him. Especially if we end up paying the money saved by letting him go, to players similar to Logan, J. Jones and Mitchell.

Quote from: Waffler on December 07, 2025, 03:31:55 PM'They are supposed to know the rules like me.'

Uh, so Proulx says the rules say it should have remained a TD?  Where do the rules say that?

It sounds like the problem isn't the TD/no-TD, the problem is awarding CGY the ball and moving it to the 30.

I think we can all agree that giving someone a TD that wasn't a TD is pretty criminal.  Yet so is giving CGY the ball at the 30.  What I propose is that a rule carve out should be in place for overturned fumbled TDs just like when other whistled-dead fumbles occur in the middle of the field -- team B gets the ball but zero forward progress.  In that case CGY should have gotten the ball, but at their 1, not their 30.

If the rules don't say this, change them.  And if you don't like the "something after the whistle affected the outcome" problem with this, then make it so that NOTHING after the whistle counts.  In which case Rankin is DBC at the 1YL and EDM gets to punch it in with a sneak.  Just pick one and write it as an unambiguous rule.

Also, part of the blame is on Rankin, who should know by now that he needs to go get that ball.  Whistles be darned.  How many of us were screaming at the screen -- GET THAT BALL!  Instead he starts making faces and looking away even though he's right there next to it.  This isn't rocket science.  Even if you're sure you got the TD, you recover any ambiguous ball.  He was REALLY stupid in this case.  Criminally stupid.  The CGY player was smart.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 05, 2025, 05:04:47 PMDickenson has never been the biggest spender, it goes against the Stamps philosophy of being cheap.

His approach could change now that Hufnagel's left the organization: https://www.tsn.ca/cfl/article/hufnagel-joins-argonauts-as-adviser-following-successful-run-in-calgary/

That's a big addition to the Argonaut's front office.

Quote from: Waffler on December 07, 2025, 03:31:55 PM'They are supposed to know the rules like me.'

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/06/they-are-supposed-to-know-the-rules-andre-proulx-admits-cfl-replay-centre-blew-call-in-elks-stampeders-finale/

Surprised Proulx would say it out loud.

Poor Andre, I bet this is the first time someone from the media ever contacted him for an interview and being an honest guy he's going to talk.  The league will slap his wrist and Andre won't talk no more.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 08, 2025, 04:38:37 PMPoor Andre, I bet this is the first time someone from the media ever contacted him for an interview and being an honest guy he's going to talk.

Proulx's also the only guy to call "tandem block" in a game since they (re?)added it to the rulebook a few years back.  And he was right.

The league must have b-slapped him so hard, as he hasn't called it since even though it happens dozens of times a season.  Speaking of which ... I need to start the tandem block thread I was meaning to after the ESF debacle...

That was a tough call. It would be nice to get a brief explanation from command centre when they do make the call so everyone understands why they made the call. And if Andre didn't agree with the call he should have descretely pleaded his case to get the call changed. He didn't say anything and should have used the same approach when asked to comment on the play . Criticising the play afterwards when you had the chance to plead your case in real time doesn't do anyone any good

Quote from: dd on December 08, 2025, 09:57:49 PMThat was a tough call. It would be nice to get a brief explanation from command centre when they do make the call so everyone understands why they made the call. And if Andre didn't agree with the call he should have descretely pleaded his case to get the call changed.

I thought that was how it was done when plays go to command!  I thought command gathered the opinions & "what I saw" from the head ref and the ref who through that flag.

To think command just takes over and doesn't hear that info at all is somewhat flabbergasting.

Mtrl has signed Alexander to an extension,  they've locked up much of their core for the next 2 years.
Meanwhile at Bomberland ..crickets.
We've likely missed the boat, the time to do that is when your team is having success
 Machocia is the best gm in the league and its not close.

Alouettes sign QB Alexander through 2028 (https://www.cfl.ca/2025/12/09/alouettes-extend-davis-alexander-through-2028/)

Quote from: blue_gold_84 on December 09, 2025, 02:20:13 PMAlouettes sign QB Alexander through 2028 (https://www.cfl.ca/2025/12/09/alouettes-extend-davis-alexander-through-2028/)

Smart.  He'll be getting to cups 50-80% of the next 5 years.  There goes my dreams of having him replace a retiring Zach.

Basically amounts to a one year extension since he had 2 years left anyway. The only odd thing is the timing. Why want a one year contract for 2028 today? From the team's perspective this is great. Their core is solid.

Quote from: Waffler on December 09, 2025, 02:47:40 PMBasically amounts to a one year extension since he had 2 years left anyway. The only odd thing is the timing. Why want a one year contract for 2028 today? From the team's perspective this is great. Their core is solid.

Might be using some left over 2025 SMS money.

Bombers just extended Pokey for an additional 2 years into 2028.

Quote from: Waffler on December 09, 2025, 02:47:40 PMBasically amounts to a one year extension since he had 2 years left anyway. The only odd thing is the timing. Why want a one year contract for 2028 today? From the team's perspective this is great. Their core is solid.

I can't remember exactly how it works, but when you sign for three years, can't teams offer you guaranteed money?

And then as part of the re-structure, throw a bonus onto the 2025 cap.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 09, 2025, 03:10:02 PMMight be using some left over 2025 SMS money.

Bombers just extended Pokey for an additional 2 years into 2028.

Which is odd as they already extended him an extra year when he returned from the NFL in early Sept, he was not due to be a FA.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 09, 2025, 06:10:58 PMWhich is odd as they already extended him an extra year when he returned from the NFL in early Sept, he was not due to be a FA.

So this article suggests he was still on his rookie deal (I mean obviously he was, but maybe Kyle tried to be sneaky and the extra year was originally low as well).

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

Quote from: Jesse on December 09, 2025, 06:13:58 PMSo this article suggests he was still on his rookie deal (I mean obviously he was, but maybe Kyle tried to be sneaky and the extra year was originally low as well).

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

Maybe low-balled him but he did sign an extention for 2026 when he came back in Sept.

https://3downnation.com/2025/09/01/winnipeg-blue-bombers-bring-back-ontaria-pokey-wilson-after-nfl-stint/ (https://3downnation.com/2025/09/01/winnipeg-blue-bombers-bring-back-ontaria-pokey-wilson-after-nfl-stint/)

Yoshi staying in Riderville.  Riders sign OL Jermarcus Hardrick.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/09/saskatchewan-roughriders-re-sign-award-winning-offensive-lineman-jermarcus-hardrick/

Fajardo re-signs with the Elks.

Edmonton Elks sign QB Cody Fajardo to contract extension through 2026 (//http://)

Ti-cats signed CB Jamal Peters for 2 years at $355k, Dan Ralph is reporting.

Highest paid American CB.

Quote from: Jesse on December 10, 2025, 05:17:10 PMTi-cats signed CB Jamal Peters for 2 years at $355k, Dan Ralph is reporting.

Highest paid American CB.

Dammmn, nobodies holding the line, the price for Nichols and Holmie just went up.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 10, 2025, 05:49:23 PMDammmn, nobodies holding the line, the price for Nichols and Holmie just went up.

I don't know. That's only $175K per season and is far from what Ford got as a Canadian starter. Regardless, I think we can expect Holm and Nichols to see something in the same ball park. I'm not sure Peters deal influenced that thought but maybe.

Anyone know what Peters earned in 2025?

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 10, 2025, 06:16:39 PMI don't know. That's only $175K per season and is far from what Ford got as a Canadian starter. Regardless, I think we can expect Holm and Nichols to see something in the same ball park. I'm not sure Peters deal influenced that thought but maybe.

Anyone know what Peters earned in 2025?

9) Jamal Peters, Hamilton Tiger-Cats (A)

Hard money: $144,750
Maximum value: $149,750

The Ticats kept their prized lockdown cornerback in town by way of an in-season extension last year, a deal which included a $42,500 signing bonus for the the East Division all-star. Peters can earn a bonus of $2,000 if he improves to All-CFL status in 2025 and another $3,000 if he wins a major league award.

Kramdi was 2 spots above him as the Bombers highest paid DB.

7) Redha Kramdi, Winnipeg Blue Bombers (N)

Hard money: $145,000
Maximum value: $151,000

Winnipeg's Canadian strong-side linebacker is paid like a ratio breaker and has $20,604 in guaranteed salary in the final year of his current. Kramdi can also take home up to $6,000 in all-star and award incentives – something he's long overdue to cash in on as one of the league's most underrated players.

BLM signs a 2 year extension in Hamilton:

https://www.cfl.ca/2025/12/11/bo-levi-mitchell-ticats-agree-to-two-year-extension/

CFL closes investigation into alleged Argonauts tampering with Riders' Corey Mace.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/11/cfl-closes-investigation-into-alleged-argonauts-tampering-with-riders-corey-mace/ (https://3downnation.com/2025/12/11/cfl-closes-investigation-into-alleged-argonauts-tampering-with-riders-corey-mace/)

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 11, 2025, 06:12:11 PMCFL closes investigation into alleged Argonauts tampering with Riders' Corey Mace.

Didn't even know there was one!  Boy, that must have Pinball steaming to let Mace walk and then Dinwiddie bails and leaves you with nothing...

Good.  I hope TOR is in the gutter again.

Quote from: Tecno on December 11, 2025, 06:30:49 PMDidn't even know there was one!  Boy, that must have Pinball steaming to let Mace walk and then Dinwiddie bails and leaves you with nothing...

Good.  I hope TOR is in the gutter again.

The article speculates it might have had something to do with John Murphy who was fired shortly afterward, but that seems like a stretch.  JC Abbott does a good job of reviewing some of the bigger tampering scandals from the past later in that article.

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/11/montreal-alouettes-release-lb-darnell-sankey-amidst-ratio-change/

Sankey released early.

Quote from: Waffler on December 11, 2025, 08:31:01 PMhttps://3downnation.com/2025/12/11/montreal-alouettes-release-lb-darnell-sankey-amidst-ratio-change/

Sankey released early.

I wonder where he'll end up. He still has some mileage left in the tank but SMS hit?  3rd overall in DT's behind T.Jones by only 1 and only 1 year older.

Maybe Ottawa as a destination?

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 11, 2025, 09:34:28 PMI wonder where he'll end up. He still has some mileage left in the tank but SMS hit?  3rd overall in DT's behind T.Jones by only 1 and only 1 year older.

Maybe Ottawa as a destination?

Calgary

Quote from: markf on December 11, 2025, 09:43:58 PMCalgary

Stamps seem to be pretty happy with Jacob Roberts at MLB with Bighill and Teitz backing him up.

Quote from: Waffler on December 11, 2025, 08:31:01 PMhttps://3downnation.com/2025/12/11/montreal-alouettes-release-lb-darnell-sankey-amidst-ratio-change/

Sankey released early.

I am surprised by this move, boy talk about gratitude. He comes over there in 2023, provided great leadership and performed like an all star, was the key cog in them winning the Grey Cup, only to be released. Ouch. I think its a mistake, the guys a killer/owns the middle of the field. solid player for someone to pickup and who does montreal have to fill in for him??

Quote from: dd on December 11, 2025, 11:20:14 PMI am surprised by this move, boy talk about gratitude. He comes over there in 2023, provided great leadership and performed like an all star, was the key cog in them winning the Grey Cup, only to be released. Ouch. I think its a mistake, the guys a killer/owns the middle of the field. solid player for someone to pickup and who does montreal have to fill in for him??

They just extended their Canadian MLB for another 2 years. That must have cost them some SMS. Sankey had a salary of about $181K which is $50K more than T. Jones as reference.

Quote from: dd on December 11, 2025, 11:20:14 PMI am surprised by this move, boy talk about gratitude. He comes over there in 2023, provided great leadership and performed like an all star, was the key cog in them winning the Grey Cup, only to be released. Ouch. I think its a mistake, the guys a killer/owns the middle of the field. solid player for someone to pickup and who does montreal have to fill in for him??

It seems maciocia is cold blooded as far as these decisions go. Seems to be paying off.

Another example is Fajardo

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 11, 2025, 09:34:28 PMI wonder where he'll end up. He still has some mileage left in the tank but SMS hit?  3rd overall in DT's behind T.Jones by only 1 and only 1 year older.

Maybe Ottawa as a destination?

I could see Ottawa going after Sankey, they need to change their losing culture. Although with Dinwiddie there they may be going after Mcmanus.
I agree Calgary is another possibliity but you never know what history exists with an old team

Heard the Riders just signed DT Devin Adams, we'll probably never know why the Bombers let him go.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 17, 2025, 07:42:10 PMHeard the Riders just signed DT Devin Adams, we'll probably never know why the Bombers let him go.

I guess he was on PR to end the year?  It's not FA yet, otherwise.

They seem pleased as punch over their on their forum.  I would have thought SSK wouldn't need any new DL given how they had so many monsters last year.  I guess they are prepping for half the team to leave on big $$ FA snipes.

There's a reason MOS/Younger chose not to dress him very much.  He's not the answer, no loss.  Seemed like a nice enough guy, though.

But now we have to worry about Adams spilling the beans to SSK on our Super Duper Effective DT/DL strategy secrets!   /s

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 17, 2025, 07:42:10 PMHeard the Riders just signed DT Devin Adams, we'll probably never know why the Bombers let him go.

I thought he played decent, when he played. He had a decent motor, decent speed and was powerful. I could never figure why we kept pulling him out so figured it was a ratio thing. He'll do good in Riderville

Quote from: dd on December 17, 2025, 10:53:24 PMI thought he played decent, when he played. He had a decent motor, decent speed and was powerful. I could never figure why we kept pulling him out so figured it was a ratio thing. He'll do good in Riderville

he could play end and tackle due to his athleticism but not particularly effective at either one. He started off the year as a starter so had the opportunity but didn't really take advantage.

Quote from: Pete on December 18, 2025, 01:39:32 AMhe could play end and tackle due to his athleticism but not particularly effective at either one. He started off the year as a starter so had the opportunity but didn't really take advantage.

If I were him I'd leave too. He watched Jake Thomas stand around at nose for 10 weeks, collect game cheques, and likely had some feelings. In Regina he's going to have a chance to actually hit quarterbacks so he's bound to look better just from the sheer fact they (and the rest of the football world) believe pressure is important.

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on December 18, 2025, 02:13:05 PMIf I were him I'd leave too. He watched Jake Thomas stand around at nose for 10 weeks, collect game cheques, and likely had some feelings. In Regina he's going to have a chance to actually hit quarterbacks so he's bound to look better just from the sheer fact they (and the rest of the football world) believe pressure is important.

I get that you HATE Jake, but I don't think he could ever be accused of "standing around" ever.  Would he ever lead the league in tackles/pressures?  Nope.  But if there was an award for effort and heart... sure, I cry whenever I rewatch Rudy, and I am a sucker for hard work and perseverance, but Jake is more than his numbers.  He would not be on an MOS team if he wasn't.

If THAT is what caused Adams to move on, good riddance.  Could just be the fact that as an American he needed to perform better to earn a spot, and he didn't.  And didn't show enough upside to keep him around.  As to his heart, I don't know, but I wish him well in SSK.

Our "scrapheap" DL losses haven't seemed to light things up in recent years.  Sure, the players signed away that we wanted to keep have done well, and may have actually earned the contracts they got.  But there haven't been any "prospects" that have moved on that I can remember thinking "Oh, we shoulda kept him".

We will have some interesting prospects at DL in camp, I have no doubt.

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on December 18, 2025, 02:13:05 PMIf I were him I'd leave too. He watched Jake Thomas stand around at nose for 10 weeks, collect game cheques, and likely had some feelings. In Regina he's going to have a chance to actually hit quarterbacks so he's bound to look better just from the sheer fact they (and the rest of the football world) believe pressure is important.

He didn't leave. We pushed him out the door intentionally when we didn't move him to the 1 game IR to end the season. We can debate whether that was a good decision or a bad decision but it was the decision at the end of the season.

I can't imagine he'd decline a 1 game pay check before becoming a free agent ending his 2 year ELC.

Can he make the Riders roster? Depends on what happens during free agency or injuries in TC. I wish him well.

Quote from: theaardvark on December 18, 2025, 04:54:39 PMI get that you HATE Jake, but I don't think he could ever be accused of "standing around" ever.  Would he ever lead the league in tackles/pressures?  Nope.  But if there was an award for effort and heart... sure, I cry whenever I rewatch Rudy, and I am a sucker for hard work and perseverance, but Jake is more than his numbers.  He would not be on an MOS team if he wasn't.

If THAT is what caused Adams to move on, good riddance.  Could just be the fact that as an American he needed to perform better to earn a spot, and he didn't.  And didn't show enough upside to keep him around.  As to his heart, I don't know, but I wish him well in SSK.

Our "scrapheap" DL losses haven't seemed to light things up in recent years.  Sure, the players signed away that we wanted to keep have done well, and may have actually earned the contracts they got.  But there haven't been any "prospects" that have moved on that I can remember thinking "Oh, we shoulda kept him".

We will have some interesting prospects at DL in camp, I have no doubt.

I don't think anyone hates Jake! He is just long past his best before date and if you fail to understand that aspect than that's on you!

Quote from: theaardvark on December 18, 2025, 04:54:39 PMI get that you HATE Jake, but I don't think he could ever be accused of "standing around" ever.  Would he ever lead the league in tackles/pressures?  Nope.  But if there was an award for effort and heart... sure, I cry whenever I rewatch Rudy, and I am a sucker for hard work and perseverance, but Jake is more than his numbers.  He would not be on an MOS team if he wasn't.

If THAT is what caused Adams to move on, good riddance.  Could just be the fact that as an American he needed to perform better to earn a spot, and he didn't.  And didn't show enough upside to keep him around.  As to his heart, I don't know, but I wish him well in SSK.

Our "scrapheap" DL losses haven't seemed to light things up in recent years.  Sure, the players signed away that we wanted to keep have done well, and may have actually earned the contracts they got.  But there haven't been any "prospects" that have moved on that I can remember thinking "Oh, we shoulda kept him".

We will have some interesting prospects at DL in camp, I have no doubt.

It could have come down to a voluntary participation issue, as many things do in life and at work, engagement that define a persons attitude towards making sacrifices, getting the job done and exhibiting leadership. 

Lack of effort isn't one of Jake's traits, in addition to taking the majority of DT snaps he often participates on the punt team and as a front line submariner on short yardage plays. He may not be the best at any of these jobs but he's first in line to do whatever needs to be done to help out the team.

 

I wouldn't read to much into this as after 2 years the staff should know his ceiling.  Looks like the Riders are loading up for TC.  Mace loves his DL players.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 18, 2025, 05:29:56 PMHe didn't leave. We pushed him out the door intentionally when we didn't move him to the 1 game IR to end the season. We can debate whether that was a good decision or a bad decision but it was the decision at the end of the season.

I can't imagine he'd decline a 1 game pay check before becoming a free agent ending his 2 year ELC.

Can he make the Riders roster? Depends on what happens during free agency or injuries in TC. I wish him well.

There's a subtle difference between "push him out the door" and "move on from him".  This is the latter.  Releasing a player with a current contract is "pushing him out the door".

Quote from: theaardvark on December 18, 2025, 07:51:31 PMThere's a subtle difference between "push him out the door" and "move on from him".  This is the latter.  Releasing a player with a current contract is "pushing him out the door".

As far as I know he would have been a free agent at the end of December. The team choose to not add him to the 1 game IR. Even if his contract was expiring adding him would have suggested they may have wanted to re-sign him. OTOH, pushing him to PR to immediately become a free agent after the last game indicated otherwise.

The same applied to Kornelson and Person both put on PR to end the season.

You can draw the distinction wherever you choose but either way it's moot. All 3 are gone and free to sign elsewhere.

I read today that D lineman Oakman who was recently turfed from the ALS, was a top NFL prospect while in College.

Kind of surprised me, he was good, but not really close tomthe best d lineman in the CFL.

" 2016 NFL Draft Expectations: Entering the 2015 season, Oakman has a big range. If he plays well and improves, the first round is possible as it only takes one team to fall in love for Thursday night, plus he could fit in any NFL defense. If Oakman falls to the second day, he shouldn't be lower than a third-rounder with the second round looking like a safe bet."

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 18, 2025, 10:10:53 PMAs far as I know he would have been a free agent at the end of December. The team choose to not add him to the 1 game IR. Even if his contract was expiring adding him would have suggested they may have wanted to re-sign him. OTOH, pushing him to PR to immediately become a free agent after the last game indicated otherwise.

The same applied to Kornelson and Person both put on PR to end the season.

You can draw the distinction wherever you choose but either way it's moot. All 3 are gone and free to sign elsewhere.

True and the Bombers rarely second guess themselves and bring back players they leave on the PR at the end of each season.  Adams had 2 seasons to impress the staff and failed to do so, in Sask. he will be competing against veterans Rose and Micah Johnson,

Lions re-sign OL Couture through 2027 (https://www.cfl.ca/2025/12/19/lions-extend-national-offensive-lineman-michael-couture/)

Lions also signed Sankey. I wonder how much that cost?

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 19, 2025, 06:55:21 PMLions also signed Sankey. I wonder how much that cost?

Micah Awe might be on the move once again after putting up 118 DT's last season. Never liked his style but he is a durable workhorse.

Very informative interview with Jim Barker on the operations level, breaks down a lot of the front office jobs and the division between coaching, GM and player personnel duties.  Good thing he loves to talk, you'd never get this much information out of any other CFL GM.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 19, 2025, 06:55:21 PMLions also signed Sankey. I wonder how much that cost?

I just don't get Montreal letting him go, good on the Lions, their D just got better

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 19, 2025, 08:54:58 PMVery informative interview with Jim Barker on the operations level, breaks down a lot of the front office jobs and the division between coaching, GM and player personnel duties.  Good thing he loves to talk, you'd never get this much information out of any other CFL GM.

;)  he is a yapper.

Quote from: dd on December 21, 2025, 02:49:30 AMI just don't get Montreal letting him go, good on the Lions, their D just got better

They are going Canadian (and likely cheaper for now) at that spot.

Quote from: dd on December 21, 2025, 02:49:30 AMI just don't get Montreal letting him go, good on the Lions, their D just got better

Could be. Not sure what happens with Awe or other costs in SMS as some players may be lost. A little like the same question about Sankey signing in Winnipeg. Great player but does he start of become a DI / rotation player and what is the additional hit to the SMS.

Quote from: RebusRankin on December 21, 2025, 02:29:54 PMThey are going Canadian (and likely cheaper for now) at that spot.

It's a function of making the cup 2 out of 3 years.  Just like SSK will find out -- GC teams get sniped.  Can't keep 'em all.

Quote from: theaardvark on December 18, 2025, 07:51:31 PMThere's a subtle difference between "push him out the door" and "move on from him".  This is the latter.

"Show him the door"?  Or maybe "leave the door open"?  Definitely something to do with doors and a lack of shuttedness.

Quote from: BBRT on December 18, 2025, 05:51:55 PMI don't think anyone hates Jake!

Uh, you're on MBB, aren't you?  :D  The Jake-hate runs strong through that one...

Quote from: theaardvark on December 18, 2025, 04:54:39 PMOur "scrapheap" DL losses haven't seemed to light things up in recent years.

The only good one who did anything after leaving was Sayles.  He's been solid this whole time, and rarely injured.  Everyone else quickly got injured and/or retired.  Even Walker just IR'd and disappeared.  Add in Stove, Nevis...

So I guess if you add up all the numbers we were very smart to let them all walk.  We couldn't have tied up all that massive SMS to keep everyone each FA just to have them all be busts, save one... however nice it would have been to have Sayles powering the DL all these years.

Quote from: Tecno on December 23, 2025, 07:03:25 AMThe only good one who did anything after leaving was Sayles.  He's been solid this whole time, and rarely injured.  Everyone else quickly got injured and/or retired.  Even Walker just IR'd and disappeared.  Add in Stove, Nevis...

So I guess if you add up all the numbers we were very smart to let them all walk.  We couldn't have tied up all that massive SMS to keep everyone each FA just to have them all be busts, save one... however nice it would have been to have Sayles powering the DL all these years.

And those weren't "scrap heap", those were players offered premium contracts to leave. 

DL is a place we've been spoiled at since DB97.  More often than not, we have 1 or 2 of the top DL in the league.  Out of 36 starters on the DL, that's pretty awesome.

Quote from: theaardvark on December 23, 2025, 04:12:29 PMAnd those weren't "scrap heap", those were players offered premium contracts to leave. 

DL is a place we've been spoiled at since DB97.  More often than not, we have 1 or 2 of the top DL in the league.  Out of 36 starters on the DL, that's pretty awesome.

I don't think this is true, other than the 2 Jeff's period the pass rush has not been that great, even though they had a few series of outstanding individuals like Jamaal Westerman.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 21, 2025, 02:46:56 PMCould be. Not sure what happens with Awe or other costs in SMS as some players may be lost. A little like the same question about Sankey signing in Winnipeg. Great player but does he start of become a DI / rotation player and what is the additional hit to the SMS.

B.C. Lions release pending CFL free-agent LB Josh Woods to make room for Sankey.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 23, 2025, 05:24:46 PMB.C. Lions release pending CFL free-agent LB Josh Woods to make room for Sankey.

I saw that. He was most often listed at WIL along with Hladik but IIRC both lined up at multiple spots depending on injury situations.

All this doesn't quite answer the question about Awe. He's played WIL in the past. I'm not sure if Sankey is only a MLB type. Hladik ( $145K ) is currently a potential free agent as is Auclair ($131K). So WIL seems as an open spot on the roster at the moment.

So who plays where with the addition of Sankey is a TBD along with cumulative SMS costs at the position.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 23, 2025, 05:42:16 PMI saw that. He was most often listed at WIL along with Hladik but IIRC both lined up at multiple spots depending on injury situations.

All this doesn't quite answer the question about Awe. He's played WIL in the past. I'm not sure if Sankey is only a MLB type. Hladik is currently a potential free agent.

So who plays where with the addition of Sankey is a TBD along with cumulative SMS costs at the position.

Sankey is an old school MLB, great against the run but not against the pass, Awe is more versatile, if they played them both it would be pretty scary.  Hladik is the prize, I'd be surprised if BC let him walk away without an attempt to re-sign him.

Sankey at MLB, Awe at WIL is a Team 100 level pairing...  although not as clean.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 23, 2025, 05:17:43 PMI don't think this is true, other than the 2 Jeff's period the pass rush has not been that great, even though they had a few series of outstanding individuals like Jamaal Westerman.

Looking at just the DTs, we have had league-top guys pass through here.  Nevis, Stove, Sayles, Walker.  Even Poop was pretty darn stout... until he didn't FIFO.

We haven't had a monster DT since Sayles or Walker.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 23, 2025, 05:50:46 PMSankey is an old school MLB, great against the run but not against the pass, Awe is more versatile, if they played them both it would be pretty scary.  Hladik is the prize, I'd be surprised if BC let him walk away without an attempt to re-sign him.

Depth would great but getting everyone on the field or playing time plus SMS issue. It was the reason why it was not a good idea for the Bombers to consider Sankey.

Maybe Hladik won't re-sign and negotiations were not going well? He could be another Canadian looking for $200K+ as a starter.

I can't see BC spending a lot on ratio breakers this year.  They have Rourke, Betts, Covington, Beaulieu, Cotoy, McInnis...  and that's 6 without any Oline.

They can easily move on from Hladik if $SMS is a concern

Quote from: theaardvark on December 24, 2025, 05:45:36 PMI can't see BC spending a lot on ratio breakers this year.  They have Rourke, Betts, Covington, Beaulieu, Cotoy, McInnis...  and that's 6 without any Oline.

They can easily move on from Hladik if $SMS is a concern

I get the feeling that Covington might be out as well from local rumours.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 24, 2025, 01:22:32 PMDepth would great but getting everyone on the field or playing time plus SMS issue. It was the reason why it was not a good idea for the Bombers to consider Sankey.

Maybe Hladik won't re-sign and negotiations were not going well? He could be another Canadian looking for $200K+ as a starter.

I don't see Hladik as a top tier LB compared to the best Imports, but he is a very good Natl. LB who should command a salary similar to Kramdi.

Emilus re-signs in Saskatchewan. :(

Quote from: VictorRomano on December 24, 2025, 07:18:25 PMEmilus re-signs in Saskatchewan. :(

Absolutely no shock there.  They need to keep the NAT REC ratio up so they can go all (or all but 1) IMP on D, or use 3 IMP OL.

Is K.Johnson in FA this year?  That's the real prize (but no passport).

Quote from: Tecno on December 25, 2025, 03:54:09 AMAbsolutely no shock there.  They need to keep the NAT REC ratio up so they can go all (or all but 1) IMP on D, or use 3 IMP OL.

Is K.Johnson in FA this year?  That's the real prize (but no passport).

Riders have an abundance of CDN receivers which makes the ratio work for them.

Yes, Johnson is a free agent.

Quote from: Tecno on December 25, 2025, 03:54:09 AMAbsolutely no shock there.  They need to keep the NAT REC ratio up so they can go all (or all but 1) IMP on D, or use 3 IMP OL.

Is K.Johnson in FA this year?  That's the real prize (but no passport).

Johnson was #4 in receiving yards, Dohnte Meyers #7, they won't be able to keep them both at the price elite receivers are now commanding after paying Emulus around $300k. Riders have become a fat juicy berry bush for the plucking.  Also imports Joe Robustelli, Shawn Bane, NI's Tommy Nield, KSB and Mitchell Picton, not all these guys deserve big contracts, but 1 or 2 of them could fit on the Bombers roster fairly well.  Question is are the Bombers looking to upgrade 2nd tier Natl. Clercius?

Robustelli might be a good steal. He will not be a high-price FA, I think. He had a decent production on his 12 games last year - 500+ yds and 3 TDs.

Quote from: M.O.A.B. on December 26, 2025, 05:42:28 PMRobustelli might be a good steal. He will not be a high-price FA, I think. He had a decent production on his 12 games last year - 500+ yds and 3 TDs.

Agree, but the Riders might be able to retain him at a lower cost and let more expensive options walk like Meyers and KSB. Don't think he's worth $200k, but he'd fit in nice as a #3 or #4.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 26, 2025, 05:16:27 PMJohnson was #4 in receiving yards, Dohnte Meyers #7

Deceiving (yards).  Meyers was the homerun WR, Johnson was the clutch SB.  Meyers would catch them way down field make a guy miss and get 70YDS.  Johnson was doing the hard work and making spectacular grabs.

Meyers looked to be nothing special -- maybe a route guy, not a hands guy.

Johnson is the guy who will make the stabs and get you 1st downs.

Looking at stats though, it appears those who didn't watch every game may think Meyers is the guy deserving of the big $$ FA!  If Johnson for some odd reason is going for cheap, I'm all over that!!  Man would he be good as a solution to our short game woes.

Quote from: Tecno on December 27, 2025, 08:19:19 AMDeceiving (yards).  Meyers was the homerun WR, Johnson was the clutch SB.  Meyers would catch them way down field make a guy miss and get 70YDS.  Johnson was doing the hard work and making spectacular grabs.

Meyers looked to be nothing special -- maybe a route guy, not a hands guy.

Johnson is the guy who will make the stabs and get you 1st downs.

Looking at stats though, it appears those who didn't watch every game may think Meyers is the guy deserving of the big $$ FA!  If Johnson for some odd reason is going for cheap, I'm all over that!!  Man would he be good as a solution to our short game woes.

You've just described Zach's ideal receiver.

Reblacks acquire N. Morgan from the Elks. Santos-Knox is currently a potential free agent.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 27, 2025, 05:16:48 PMYou've just described Zach's ideal receiver.

Ya, ok.  But one problem: we have 3 of those already!!  Pokey, Wheatie, Demski are all thinner/speed guys who can go wide out and get a 70Y TD with YAC.

We don't have a bruiser with hands for the short game.  Kenny kind of did that for us a bit when he'd cut inside (those TDs in '24 WDF were amazing).  But even he wasn't ideal there (too skinny & frail).

As such I'd take Johnson over Meyers.  But only for cheap.  In general I don't like all the Green retreads we take in.  I'm not expecting we take any greeners this FA.  Let the other hyenas pounce and steal that GC meat.

I think the rider receivers will re sign with the riders, they've got a good thing going, I m sure oday will make them competitive offers and they haven't overcommitted to their star players like we and other teams have. They have more cap space than most teams

Quote from: dd on December 28, 2025, 04:16:59 AMI think the rider receivers will re sign with the riders, they've got a good thing going, I m sure oday will make them competitive offers and they haven't overcommitted to their star players like we and other teams have. They have more cap space than most teams

I'm of the opposite mind.  I think they are in cap heck, and I think the FA sniping will be massive.  Yeah, their O was super budget, but they spent a ton on that D last year -- way more than we did.

Any superstars coming off ELCs will want to get paid.  SSK can't afford to keep many.  The vets in FA will want a bump after they "deserve it" for winning the GC.  And since the SSK system doesn't require top/expensive RECs I think they dump anyone who asks for more than a modest bump.  They'll just draft more Busbys and Pictons to fill the void.

Teams that had any 2025 SMS left probably have spent that by now or close to it. We may see some players signed but bonus money probably due at the beginning of February.

Quote from: dd on December 28, 2025, 04:16:59 AMI think the rider receivers will re sign with the riders, they've got a good thing going, I m sure oday will make them competitive offers and they haven't overcommitted to their star players like we and other teams have. They have more cap space than most teams

The problem is, due to injury the Riders have accumulated a swatch of receivers that probably think they should be starters and are unlikely to accept being designated as backups.  A little more than a month ago they started 4 Natl's and 1 Import in the GC in order to accomodate a 4 Import O-line as well as a 4 import D-line, that ratio became their bread and butter and fairly sure they don't want to alter it.

Imports
BANE Jr. Shawn
JOHNSON, KeeSean
MEYERS, Dohnte
ROBUSTELLI, Joe

Natl.
Ajou
Busby
EMILUS, Samuel
NIELD, Tommy
PICTON, Mitchell
SCHAFFER-BAKER, Kian

Bolded are already under contract.

Ya the riders have the luxury of having several capable receivers to re sign. Sure they ll lose some to FA, but they are deep in receivers so losing 1 or 2 isn't going to break their back.

Quote from: dd on December 29, 2025, 02:43:03 AMYa the riders have the luxury of having several capable receivers to re sign. Sure they ll lose some to FA, but they are deep in receivers so losing 1 or 2 isn't going to break their back.

the recievers numbers may be overstated as the thing they had in common was a very accurate qb. I dont think Meyers or Bane would fair as well in our offence.

Emulus SMS goes from $168K to $285K.  That's about 1/4 of the SMS increase.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 29, 2025, 01:58:06 PMEmulus SMS goes from $168K to $285K.  That's about 1/4 of the SMS increase.

That tracks with the other high end Canadian salaries so far.

Quote from: Jesse on December 29, 2025, 02:05:22 PMThat tracks with the other high end Canadian salaries so far.

Probably. The larger question is how much 2025 SMS was left and used by each team and what happens with new SMS in 2026.

I'm all for players getting more but as I've said, just giving a lot more to a select few doesn't improve the roster.

It does seem that some teams had some 2025 SMS left so there should still be some big spending to come in free agency.

Can't see Shawn Bane Jr. being offered a contract from the Riders.

Quote from: Ridermania on December 29, 2025, 02:52:32 PMCan't see Shawn Bane Jr. being offered a contract from the Riders.

Agree and they might keep Robustelli over Meyers for his versatility. On the Natl. side KSB probably goes to FA to get paid what he thinks he's worth while they try to re-sign Tommy Nield and Picton for his flexibility and backup ability.

KSB is a risky proposition, he's great at YAC and a big target but does not resemble a great route runner to me, he also spends too much time on the IR each season due to his refusal to go down when hit, in 5 seasons he's only played 57 games.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 29, 2025, 02:39:38 PMProbably. The larger question is how much 2025 SMS was left and used by each team and what happens with new SMS in 2026.

I'm all for players getting more but as I've said, just giving a lot more to a select few doesn't improve the roster.

It does seem that some teams had some 2025 SMS left so there should still be some big spending to come in free agency.

If the alternative is your best players leaving, then it does make your roster better than that alternative.

With the ratio ensuring that the set number of Nat's and Americans is a given, should there be caps within the caps?  Should the $SMS be broken into 2 caps? One for Nats and one for Americans?

If they did it that way, teams would still pay a disproportionate amount to Nats, but that would be capped.  Bring down the top end of Nat salaries a bit...

Quote from: Jesse on December 29, 2025, 05:44:20 PMIf the alternative is your best players leaving, then it does make your roster better than that alternative.

The SMS cap has no bearing really. If the cap had not gone up, how much do top salaries go up? If the cap had gone up double what it did then do those top players get even more?

If Rourke was a potential free agent does his SMS hit go up to $800K because of the SMS number and the competition to acquire him?

IMO the increase neither keeps a player from leaving or helps keep him. It's just the free market with a given SMS.

Quote from: theaardvark on December 29, 2025, 06:18:15 PMWith the ratio ensuring that the set number of Nat's and Americans is a given, should there be caps within the caps?  Should the $SMS be broken into 2 caps? One for Nats and one for Americans?

If they did it that way, teams would still pay a disproportionate amount to Nats, but that would be capped.  Bring down the top end of Nat salaries a bit...

Interesting but I'd think the CFLPA would not be in favour of that. Some Canadians are better than some imports and limiting a contract amount based on nationality would be unfair.

That argument was raised about lower Global salaries last year in discussions.

This really falls on team management / owners that will look to " buy " a top talent with contracts in excess of logic.

In the past before SMS we had rich teams paying some players $1M usd because they had no limits.

How much did the cap go up this year? Can you point me to doc? Thanks.

Quote from: TBURGESS on December 29, 2025, 07:55:50 PMHow much did the cap go up this year? Can you point me to doc? Thanks.

In theory it went up in 2025 by about $400K and that would be carried over as part of the 2026 SMS. I'm not aware of an additional increase above that from last year, but it's possible. IIRC there was a built in increase in each season in the CFLPA agreement.

The large increase last year was due to increased revenue which a separate increase.

There was never any clarity from the league  and the 2025 increase was announced late ( after free agency ) so teams had no where to spend it per se.

Quote from: TBURGESS on December 29, 2025, 07:55:50 PMHow much did the cap go up this year? Can you point me to doc? Thanks.

Up by $412,365
https://cflpa.com/cflpa-shares-historic-salary-cap-increase-for-2025-season

Here is what 2026 looks like for the SMS.

The CFL's salary cap for the 2026 season is set to increase due to the league's revenue-sharing model from the new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), with the base cap expected around
$6.16 million and the total expenditure cap over $6.27 million, driven by 2025 revenue growth, keeping the minimum salary at $70,000 for now but signaling a healthier financial environment.

Key Details for 2026

EDIT: Here is the 2025 cap info again.  If I understand all this there is an additional new increase of about $54K?

That's the difference between the $6.06M and $6.16M. 2025 versus 2026 SMS.

The CFL Salary Management System for 2025
centers on a $6,062,365 salary cap, up significantly due to league revenue growth via the CBA's revenue-sharing model, with rules including spending thresholds, penalties for exceeding the cap (monetary and draft picks), and non-salary bonuses like housing/marketing, all managed under the framework of the 2022 CBA and ongoing discussions with the CFLPA.

Key Components of the 2025 System:

I knew about the 2025 increase, looks like the 2026 is just $54K. Thanks folks.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 29, 2025, 09:04:41 PMHere is what 2026 looks like for the SMS.

The CFL's salary cap for the 2026 season is set to increase due to the league's revenue-sharing model from the new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), with the base cap expected around
$6.16 million and the total expenditure cap over $6.27 million, driven by 2025 revenue growth, keeping the minimum salary at $70,000 for now but signaling a healthier financial environment.

Key Details for 2026

EDIT: Here is the 2025 cap info again.  If I understand all this there is an additional new increase of about $54K?

That's the difference between the $6.06M and $6.16M. 2025 versus 2026 SMS.

The CFL Salary Management System for 2025
centers on a $6,062,365 salary cap, up significantly due to league revenue growth via the CBA's revenue-sharing model, with rules including spending thresholds, penalties for exceeding the cap (monetary and draft picks), and non-salary bonuses like housing/marketing, all managed under the framework of the 2022 CBA and ongoing discussions with the CFLPA.

Key Components of the 2025 System:

Has this been mentioned anywhere other than Google AI?

I expect a cap increase, but I haven't heard of one yet.

Quote from: Jesse on December 29, 2025, 11:03:48 PMHas this been mentioned anywhere other than Google AI?

I expect a cap increase, but I haven't heard of one yet.

Only thing I read was the CFLPA will be inforcing the Jan 15th deadline to receive financial documents from the league.

We will hear about any SMS increase after the PA reviews the financials.

Quote from: Jesse on December 29, 2025, 11:03:48 PMHas this been mentioned anywhere other than Google AI?

I expect a cap increase, but I haven't heard of one yet.

That's all I've heard. There is an annual increase as part of the CFLPA agreement that was usually in the $55K. Each increase is carried forward since it's and increase and not a one time payment.

The revenue sharing that we had for 2025 was a subset done as a calculation and the 1st time we've had that happen.

So yes, there could be another created in 2026 due to revenue sharing although I think that isn't not a calculation done every season.

However reading the post above mine, the league has to inform the teams by January 15th to confirm any new increase. That would mean something related to revenue sharing.

If there is another large increase based on that, I hope they have a better plan.

My position was to add additional players to the roster.

Quote from: gobombersgo on December 29, 2025, 11:12:28 PMOnly thing I read was the CFLPA will be inforcing the Jan 15th deadline to receive financial documents from the league.

We will hear about any SMS increase after the PA reviews the financials.

Watched an interview with Brett Lauther in the summer, he is the CFLPA rep for the Riders, he mentioned the CFL has not been upfront or forthcoming in releasing financial information or money to the PA.  It appears the league is taking a hostile approach to a cooperative effort. Cue the appointment of Stewart Johnston as a soulless sycophant of greed.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 29, 2025, 06:54:00 PMIMO the increase neither keeps a player from leaving or helps keep him. It's just the free market with a given SMS.

Every increase in SMS does allow us to keep more players.  Rourke even hinted it himself: top-3 starting CFL QB salary is now enough to compete with perennial-PR job (maybe with a couple of dresses -- see: Strev) in the NFL.  Unless a QB has a strong chance of starting (or dressing for years as bonafide #2), they'll look long and hard at earning $800k total in the CFL.

Every $10 or $40k+ extra a mid/high-range player gets may dissuade them from retirement for a year.

Take the example to the extreme: what if the CFL SMS was the same as the NFL?  Then we'd lose no players at all, and players would play until they are bad or injured.

Quote from: theaardvark on December 29, 2025, 06:18:15 PMWith the ratio ensuring that the set number of Nat's and Americans is a given, should there be caps within the caps?  Should the $SMS be broken into 2 caps? One for Nats and one for Americans?

I say no, because part of the fun of the CFL is to see how the GMs work the SMS and the ratio.  It's the flexibility that makes things interesting.  It allows 2025 SSK to have that crazy cheap mega-NAT O setup and win the cup.  They got creative and did a Moneyball and hit the jackpot.  Couldn't do that if the NAT/IMP caps were separately set in stone.

It's like F1: before caps or engine freezes or decreasing the aero modification zone sizes things were a lot more interesting inter-team because there were a lot more variables for teams to play with.  That allows people to get really creative.  Like the 4-front-wheeled 80's constructor.

Quote from: theaardvark on December 29, 2025, 06:18:15 PMIf they did it that way, teams would still pay a disproportionate amount to Nats, but that would be capped.  Bring down the top end of Nat salaries a bit...

Not necessarily.  It could just as easily result in the top NATs making even more, and teams filling the NAT cap with ELCs.  That would effectively end the career of the middling NATs.  And the product would suffer IMHO.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 29, 2025, 05:17:30 PMKSB is a risky proposition, he's great at YAC and a big target but does not resemble a great route runner to me, he also spends too much time on the IR each season due to his refusal to go down when hit, in 5 seasons he's only played 57 games.

KSB was hot garbage after his injury in '25.  And, a bit like McInnis, D's are starting to figure out their limited route options, and cut off their short game / hot outlet role.

KSB barely saw the field in '25.  Not sure he'll realize any dreams of big FA this time 'round.  He should sign on a 1 year to prove himself again.

That said, if he was super cheap I'd take him as the bruiser middle short game guy that we desperately need.  But I'm pretty sure we don't need the ratio help, so it's probably not worth the $ vs an IMP.

Quote from: Tecno on December 30, 2025, 10:18:44 AMEvery increase in SMS does allow us to keep more players.  Rourke even hinted it himself: top-3 starting CFL QB salary is now enough to compete with perennial-PR job (maybe with a couple of dresses -- see: Strev) in the NFL.  Unless a QB has a strong chance of starting (or dressing for years as bonafide #2), they'll look long and hard at earning $800k total in the CFL.

Every $10 or $40k+ extra a mid/high-range player gets may dissuade them from retirement for a year.

Take the example to the extreme: what if the CFL SMS was the same as the NFL?  Then we'd lose no players at all, and players would play until they are bad or injured.

Spending before and after SMS limits always saw players come and go. We'll see that this year as well. A player's salary at a fixed point in time is no different than us non professional sports people. At some point we decide its time to retire. More money is not always the driving force.

Rourke suggesting higher SMS might make a player like him not consider an NFL PR for example. I call BS. The NFL salaries go up every season as well. A roster spot on any AR pays more than the very top of CFL salaries. Add in the dream of the NFL which is not just money but playing the game you played in college and playing in your home country.

Rourke is only in the CFL because NFL teams choose to not add him to a roster.

I think you're grasping for straws.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 30, 2025, 12:09:52 AMWatched an interview with Brett Lauther in the summer, he is the CFLPA rep for the Riders, he mentioned the CFL has not been upfront or forthcoming in releasing financial information or money to the PA.  It appears the league is taking a hostile approach to a cooperative effort. Cue the appointment of Stewart Johnston as a soulless sycophant of greed.

When the cap increase was released last year and no one knew what was happening, Justin Dunk reported that the financials were so delayed by the league that this increase was based on revenue from the 2021 or 2022 season. That's how far behind they are.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 30, 2025, 01:27:23 PMRourke is only in the CFL because NFL teams choose to not add him to a roster.

I think you're grasping for straws.

Except Rourke actually spoke to it, around the time he was coming back.

I think it's well known that Rourke could have had more tryouts and PR spots in the NFL had he wanted them.  He hadn't exhausted every possibility when he returned.

Quote from: Tecno on December 31, 2025, 06:06:42 AMExcept Rourke actually spoke to it, around the time he was coming back.

I think it's well known that Rourke could have had more tryouts and PR spots in the NFL had he wanted them.  He hadn't exhausted every possibility when he returned.

Rourke got his big new contract in 2024 before the large 2025 SMS increase. It had nothing to do with SMS increasing than the Lions willing to increase his contract at the expense of elsewhere on the roster.  Noting that the Lions finished 3rd in 2024.

Every season teams will decide how to spend their SMS which includes trying to out bid other teams to retain players. In some cases they will choose to let players walk when that happens. Some players will not be offered new contracts as teams choose to go younger as players move up the depth chart.

The CFL cannot compete with the NFL with salaries.

Quote from: Tecno on December 31, 2025, 06:06:42 AMExcept Rourke actually spoke to it, around the time he was coming back.

I think it's well known that Rourke could have had more tryouts and PR spots in the NFL had he wanted them. He hadn't exhausted every possibility when he returned.

I don't know about that. He had workouts with a dozen NFL teams prior to the 2023 season. He then signed a three-year contract with the Jaguars, which didn't even last a year. He then floated around on waivers with the Patriots, Giants, and Falcons until he returned to the CFL.

I think the writing was on the wall for him after his release from the Falcons.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 31, 2025, 01:28:28 PMRourke got his big new contract in 2024 before the large 2025 SMS increase. It had nothing to do with SMS increasing than the Lions willing to increase his contract at the expense of elsewhere on the roster.  Noting that the Lions finished 3rd in 2024.

Every season teams will decide how to spend their SMS which includes trying to out bid other teams to retain players. In some cases they will choose to let players walk when that happens. Some players will not be offered new contracts as teams choose to go younger as players move up the depth chart.

The CFL cannot compete with the NFL with salaries.

As to the timeline of the SMS increase, was there any mention of marketing money prior to Doman Re-signing Rourke for $824k/season? Seems like marketing money was the joker card the owners threw into the deck after the cards were dealt to excuse any over-spending they wished to indulge in. Instead of punishing Doman according to the SMS rules, they gave him a slap on the back. If it was a planned process I think it would have been discussed in the off-season and brought forward as a proposal.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 31, 2025, 04:33:50 PMAs to the timeline of the SMS increase, was there any mention of marketing money prior to Doman Re-signing Rourke for $824k/season? Seems like marketing money was the joker card the owners threw into the deck after the cards were dealt to excuse any over-spending they wished to indulge in. Instead of punishing Doman according to the SMS rules, they gave him a slap on the back. If it was a planned process I think it would have been discussed in the off-season and brought forward as a proposal.

IIRC there was marketing money prior to Rourke returning. How much and the rules behind the concept were not clear. It's still not clear. There has to be a limit otherwise there is no SMS. Geez. How much would the Lions been over in 2024 if they hadn't shifted some spend into MM? It's not like they just missed the mark.

Doman should have suffered more consequences but it it what it is.

Either way the 2024 SMS and 2025 SMS spend for Rourke is excessive. Yes another team may have been willing to pay that but it's still excessive.

SMS is spent across an entire roster and whatever is spent somewhere is not spent elsewhere.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 31, 2025, 04:33:50 PMAs to the timeline of the SMS increase, was there any mention of marketing money prior to Doman Re-signing Rourke for $824k/season?

No.  MMM was literally never mentioned on this forum until those Rourke/Betts shenanigans.  As far as us fans were concerned, it didn't exist.

Sure, MM existed before that moment, but it was all kept entirely reasonable, like giving your QB $20-$50k MM for appearances.  No one would ever bat an eye about that.

It's when BC clearly used it to over pay Rourke, off the SMS, by at least $150k, that everyone suddenly knew what MM was.

The honor system only works if everybody honors it.  Now it's a free for all (has anyone lowered Rourke's MMM yet?), and as such we should be paying Zach & Brady with $200k MMM too.  Play their game until the league finally puts a stop to it.

Oh wait... Johnston too busy moving goal posts and goal lines.

Quote from: Tecno on January 01, 2026, 09:37:39 AMNo.  MMM was literally never mentioned on this forum until those Rourke/Betts shenanigans.  As far as us fans were concerned, it didn't exist.

Sure, MM existed before that moment, but it was all kept entirely reasonable, like giving your QB $20-$50k MM for appearances.  No one would ever bat an eye about that.

It's when BC clearly used it to over pay Rourke, off the SMS, by at least $150k, that everyone suddenly knew what MM was.

The honor system only works if everybody honors it.  Now it's a free for all (has anyone lowered Rourke's MMM yet?), and as such we should be paying Zach & Brady with $200k MMM too.  Play their game until the league finally puts a stop to it.

Oh wait... Johnston too busy moving goal posts and goal lines.

That's what I thought, they found a small clause in the SMS, distorted it's purpose, and exploited the hell out of it. You're right, this may be the year the Lions finally turn the tide and kick the Bombers butts, Walters should be using the same crooked accounting until the league cracks down on these exemptions.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 01, 2026, 05:34:14 PMThat's what I thought, they found a small clause in the SMS, distorted it's purpose, and exploited the hell out of it. You're right, this may be the year the Lions finally turn the tide and kick the Bombers butts, Walters should be using the same crooked accounting until the league cracks down on these exemptions.

It's not a small, hidden clause, lol.

It was added in the latest CBA so players couldd get paid for off field appearances.

Quote from: Jesse on January 01, 2026, 10:45:04 PMIt's not a small, hidden clause, lol.

It was added in the latest CBA so players couldd get paid for off field appearances.

Point is the Lions used it as a loophole to subvert the salary cap and exploited it well beyond it's original purpose. 

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 01, 2026, 10:55:12 PMPoint is the Lions used it as a loophole to subvert the salary cap and exploited it well beyond it's original purpose. 

It's not a loophole though. It's part of the contract that the union fought for.

We don't have contract information (yet), so we don't know how much each team spends.

Quote from: Jesse on January 01, 2026, 10:59:34 PMIt's not a loophole though. It's part of the contract that the union fought for.

We don't have contract information (yet), so we don't know how much each team spends.

We know the Lions are paying Rourke $200k to participate in drivel like this.


Chris Kolankowski probably earns a couple of thousand for visiting a Northern reserve.


Notice Milt and O'Shea were also there, pretty sure this level of participation influences his opinion of his players.

The Lions lawyers looked at the contract, found the marketing money had no limits on it, and used it to bring in a big time player that they wouldn't have been able to afford otherwise. 

That's good lawyering right there.

Quote from: TBURGESS on January 02, 2026, 12:37:58 AMThe Lions lawyers looked at the contract, found the marketing money had no limits on it, and used it to bring in a big time player that they wouldn't have been able to afford otherwise.

That's good lawyering right there.

It is.  But it still doesn't mean they aren't d.bags.  Instead of exploiting it in an outrageous manner they could have notified the CFL that this "bug" existed.

I'm a programmer/hacker, if I find a huge zero day bug in Windows, should I exploit it to steal everyone's crypto wallets?  Or do I report it through the proper CVE channels?

Quote from: Jesse on January 01, 2026, 10:59:34 PMWe don't have contract information (yet), so we don't know how much each team spends.

Not this again!  You said the exact same thing this time last year.  We don't need to wait for '25 numbers, we already know BC was crooked by going $350k over SMS last season -- and that's EXCLUDING the MMM.

The are a dirty team, and I don't know what you gain by defending them (again).  They're probably MMM'ing the heck out of everyone now: Hatcher, McInnis, etc.

Quote from: Jesse on January 01, 2026, 10:59:34 PMIt's not a loophole though. It's part of the contract that the union fought for.

The spirit of the MMM clause was to get players who do more publicity a little more compensation.  It was never intended to be a way to bypass the SMS and pay QB's $850k.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 01, 2026, 10:55:12 PMPoint is the Lions used it as a loophole to subvert the salary cap and exploited it well beyond it's original purpose.

It's the Braun diffuser from F1 15 years ago.  They thought of it first, and they felt like exploiting the loophole (won Braun a championship with a substandard ex-Honda chassis/engine).

And a loophole it indeed is... Not the MMM itself, but using it to the tune of $200k per player.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 02, 2026, 12:10:24 AMWe know the Lions are paying Rourke $200k to participate in drivel like this.

That's some pretty funny stuff, though.  Too bad they didn't find some of my comments to read.

Hmm, 738 views.  Let's say he earned $25k of his $200k MMM for that video.  That means the Lions spent $34 per view on that video.  Seems like a lot, considering nearly every viewer will either be a BC STH already, or an other-city CFL fan who won't be spending money in BC Place anytime soon.

Gaaaaaaaaaaaapppppppppppppppppppppppppppppp.  Kid Oakville

Any news on Tre Ford and his $100K bonus due January 1st?

Quote from: Ridermania on January 02, 2026, 11:59:49 AMAny news on Tre Ford and his $100K bonus due January 1st?

Good question. There may have been a re-negotiation that we haven't heard about yet.

Quote from: Ridermania on January 02, 2026, 11:59:49 AMAny news on Tre Ford and his $100K bonus due January 1st?

Last I read it was a 110k bonus for Feb 1.

Quote from: Waffler on January 02, 2026, 02:22:42 PMLast I read it was a 110k bonus for Feb 1.

Ah. That changes the situation for the moment. Regardless of how that works out I don't see Ford as an Elk in 2026. Where he ends up or under what kind of contract is up in the air.

Ultimately he needs a new chance elsewhere. Re-negotiating to stay in Edmonton would leave a bad taste for both sides.

Just my view though.

Quote from: Tecno on January 02, 2026, 08:54:26 AMIt is.  But it still doesn't mean they aren't d.bags.  Instead of exploiting it in an outrageous manner they could have notified the CFL that this "bug" existed.

I'm a programmer/hacker, if I find a huge zero day bug in Windows, should I exploit it to steal everyone's crypto wallets?  Or do I report it through the proper CVE channels?

I was a programmer... Mostly Assembler, Cobol & Rexx. I hacked folks userid's and passwords back in high school in the 70's to get more processing time. So I see it differently. Exploiting what's in a contract that anyone who is smart enough to find is just using what's provided to everyone with a working brain. 

Quote from: Blue In BC on January 02, 2026, 03:02:37 PMRegardless of how that works out I don't see Ford as an Elk in 2026.

I feel like they are letting him twist in the wind. Unless they feel a trade is still possible, they should give his release already. Tampering period is also Feb 1. If they want Ford to get a feel what other teams would pay and renegotiate from there it would be too late.  It just seems like a release is coming sooner or later. Take the high road, do it now and give him some time to find a job.

Quote from: Blue In BC on January 02, 2026, 03:02:37 PMAh. That changes the situation for the moment. Regardless of how that works out I don't see Ford as an Elk in 2026. Where he ends up or under what kind of contract is up in the air.

Ultimately he needs a new chance elsewhere. Re-negotiating to stay in Edmonton would leave a bad taste for both sides.

Just my view though.

I'd have no problem with Ford as a backup QB, he's an extremely talented athlete who has the potential to be great.  The problem is with his current salary, it should be commensurate with his results, let's use Matthew Shiltz salary as a measuring stick.

Quote from: TBURGESS on January 02, 2026, 03:15:10 PMI was a programmer... Mostly Assembler, Cobol & Rexx. I hacked folks userid's and passwords back in high school in the 70's to get more processing time. So I see it differently. Exploiting what's in a contract that anyone who is smart enough to find is just using what's provided to everyone with a working brain.

"Cobol and Assembler"??? you and I might be the only two folks that know these tools! I go back even further - Fortran!!! I even remember how to do "Case Statements" Man we are getting up there! My first degree was in Electrical Engineering and I got to work on the very first IBM mainframe in the good ol Green Machine!!

Quote from: Tecno on January 02, 2026, 08:56:14 AMNot this again!  You said the exact same thing this time last year.  We don't need to wait for '25 numbers, we already know BC was crooked by going $350k over SMS last season -- and that's EXCLUDING the MMM.

The are a dirty team, and I don't know what you gain by defending them (again).  They're probably MMM'ing the heck out of everyone now: Hatcher, McInnis, etc.

I'm not talking about salary cap adherence. I mean, we don't know how much marketing money teams spend in total on all their players.

I'm certainly not defending BC, just complaining about lack of transparency from the CFL and it's kinda pointless to discuss certain things when we aren't privy to 95% of the info.

Quote from: BBRT on January 02, 2026, 05:31:54 PM"Cobol and Assembler"??? you and I might be the only two folks that know these tools! I go back even further - Fortran!!! I even remember how to do "Case Statements" Man we are getting up there! My first degree was in Electrical Engineering and I got to work on the very first IBM mainframe in the good ol Green Machine!!

Cut my teeth on Fortran on cards.

Heathkit H8 we built and programmed through the keypad until we got our smart terminal.

Timex/Sinclair, TRS80, PET 2001...  Basic, assembler, machine code...

Pascal and COBOL I could speak pidgin if needed in a pinch.

And zero of it remembered today, because I'm old as heck.

And today?

CHAT GPT - write me a programme

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 02, 2026, 04:49:40 PMI'd have no problem with Ford as a backup QB, he's an extremely talented athlete who has the potential to be great.  The problem is with his current salary, it should be commensurate with his results, let's use Matthew Shiltz salary as a measuring stick.

I agree it's all about the SMS level. I'd take him as a # 2 QB for the right price. Shiltz just retired didn't he?

Fortran? Of course, I know Fortran and Pascal, C, C++, Basic, and even RPG in a pinch. 

The TRS80 was known as my Trash 80. 

My first job was on an IBM 360. 

Yes sir... I am older than dirt. 

Quote from: Blue In BC on January 02, 2026, 06:54:08 PMI agree it's all about the SMS level. I'd take him as a # 2 QB for the right price. Shiltz just retired didn't he?

Nobody really cares, Shiltz is the perfect example of a QB given multiple opportunities to progress to becoming a starter and failing to do so, couldn't even follow the Fajardo path.

Quote from: Blue In BC on January 02, 2026, 03:02:37 PMAh. That changes the situation for the moment. Regardless of how that works out I don't see Ford as an Elk in 2026. Where he ends up or under what kind of contract is up in the air.

Ultimately he needs a new chance elsewhere. Re-negotiating to stay in Edmonton would leave a bad taste for both sides.

Just my view though.

I wouldn't mind seeing him in Blue as our #2, with a chance to play more if Zach gets injured.

Quote from: TBURGESS on January 02, 2026, 07:47:46 PMFortran? Of course, I know Fortran and Pascal, C, C++, Basic, and even RPG in a pinch.

The TRS80 was known as my Trash 80.

My first job was on an IBM 360.

Yes sir... I am older than dirt.

RPG here. Started in Y2K. Still working as RPG programmer.

Quote from: M.O.A.B. on January 03, 2026, 01:30:14 PMRPG here. Started in Y2K. Still working as RPG programmer.

Ahhh... Y2K.

So many systems used that 2 digit year code, especially when using fixed length ASCII data flies.  I did get asked by a few companies to help, thanks to my knowledge of almost extinct languages, to help out with updating the files.

The company I worked for at the time (as a salesman, but who could program circles around the technical staff, they were efficient but had no imagination or concept of how the users actually used the systems) used a 256 byte fixed length ASCII file setup for complete patient data (Name, address, etc) and thought they were smart in using a 6 digit dates for last visit, etc, to conserve data (using 8" floppies in CPM).  They used 8 digit DOB off the start, too many 1890's clients (anyone over 80 back then), so we were fine on that one, but there were a few other dates, with calls from many different subprograms.

Since we now had 20MB hard drives and tape backups, we could splurge for the extra few digits in the data file.

I think I added more new features to the system as a salesman than the development team ever did.  I'd ask for a customizable label routine and they'd say it couldn't be easily done and would mean every site would have to have thier own executables.  I wrote a label printing routine that gave the client 10 different labels formats and printer selections through unique to site external data files in one evening, left them the code and file format printouts on their conference desk like a shoemakers elf.

They should have given me a big raise and put me in charge of the tech group.  Instead, I got recruited away for double the pay a few weeks later, and they got swallowed up by another company.


     

Quote from: Jesse on January 02, 2026, 05:34:42 PMI'm not talking about salary cap adherence. I mean, we don't know how much marketing money teams spend in total on all their players.

I thought those MMM numbers do come out eventually.  Someone posted (here) all the MMM numbers for WFC players a couple of/few months back.  I'm assuming they didn't just pull those numbers out of their butt?

Besides, BC didn't even hide the MMM number they were giving Rourke and Betts when they returned.

The key is finding that info... it would sure be nice if the CFL could compile it and post it to their site.  Or just leak it every year to 3down.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 02, 2026, 04:49:40 PMI'd have no problem with Ford as a backup QB, he's an extremely talented athlete who has the potential to be great.

So what's Ford's problem then?  I find it very strange.  I think he's smarter than VAJ, and probably/maybe Cody.  Tyrrel was certainly pretty smart -- so too should be his identical twin.

If VAJ can pick up reading a D, why can't Ford?  It's bizarre.  Maybe he just needs top tier coaching?  Didn't he have a year or 2 with Jarious?  Shouldn't that have been "good enough"?

Weird.

Quote from: Tecno on January 04, 2026, 07:20:00 AMSo what's Ford's problem then?  I find it very strange.  I think he's smarter than VAJ, and probably/maybe Cody.  Tyrrel was certainly pretty smart -- so too should be his identical twin.

If VAJ can pick up reading a D, why can't Ford?  It's bizarre.  Maybe he just needs top tier coaching?  Didn't he have a year or 2 with Jarious?  Shouldn't that have been "good enough"?

Weird.

It's never that easy a question to answer. The skill of the players on offence and the OC play calling come into play. Their defence improved during 2025 but had problems early and still had flaws.

It seemed they were often in catch up mode when the playbook goes out the window.

I think he'd do better on a better team but will he get that chance in 2026 as a starter? Where?

Quote from: Tecno on January 04, 2026, 07:20:00 AMSo what's Ford's problem then?  I find it very strange.  I think he's smarter than VAJ, and probably/maybe Cody.  Tyrrel was certainly pretty smart -- so too should be his identical twin.

If VAJ can pick up reading a D, why can't Ford?  It's bizarre.  Maybe he just needs top tier coaching?  Didn't he have a year or 2 with Jarious?  Shouldn't that have been "good enough"?

Weird.

Not sure who said it but someone from the previous Elks previous regime commented Ford does not put in the mental work and relies too much on his athletic ability as that's how he's got by in the past.  Could be why he never received a US scholarship or did all that well in USports, who knows?


Come to think of it, maybe it was Jarious Jackson?

Quote from: TBURGESS on January 02, 2026, 07:47:46 PMFortran? Of course, I know Fortran and Pascal, C, C++, Basic, and even RPG in a pinch.

The TRS80 was known as my Trash 80.

My first job was on an IBM 360.

Yes sir... I am older than dirt.

Older than Dirt?? Dude I am looking at Dirt in my rear view mirror  ;D

The Calgary Stampeders rewarded the CFL's reigning rushing king, Dedrick Mills, by making him the highest-paid American running back.

The five-foot-10, 238-pound RB received a $55,000 signing bonus to ink his two-year extension with the Stamps. He has an $85,000 base salary, $15,000 in housing, $15,000 in marketing, and a $3,000 travel allowance to equal $173,000 in hard money. The 29-year-old also has $23,000 available in statistical, all-star and award incentives, which can take his maximum earnings to $196,500 in 2026. That includes:

    $5,000 for 1,000 rushing yards
    $5,000 for 1,750 rushing and receiving yards
    $3,000 for 750 rushing yards
    $2,000 for 1,500 rushing and receiving yards
    $2,000 for being named a CFL all-star
    $2,000 for being named league MOP
    $1,000 for being named a West Division all-star
    $1,000 for being named team MOP
    $1,000 for 500 rushing yards
    $1,000 for 1,250 rushing and receiving yards

Goes to show how tough import RB's have to scrap for their cash, meanwhile Brady has direct deposit and doesn't have to stand in line at the bank.

Last season was the first one in 4 Mills remained healthy for 18 games carrying the ball 250 times for 1409 yds, I won't be surprised if that remains his high-water mark.

https://3downnation.com/2026/01/04/calgary-stampeders-make-dedrick-mills-highest-paid-american-rb-in-cfl/ (https://3downnation.com/2026/01/04/calgary-stampeders-make-dedrick-mills-highest-paid-american-rb-in-cfl/)

Brady about 100k over the highest paid american, same as last year.

Quote from: TBURGESS on January 02, 2026, 03:15:10 PMI was a programmer... Mostly Assembler, Cobol & Rexx. I hacked folks userid's and passwords back in high school in the 70's to get more processing time. So I see it differently. Exploiting what's in a contract that anyone who is smart enough to find is just using what's provided to everyone with a working brain.

Work on old school mainframe stuff (COBOL, SAS, JCL) and newer server stuff (JAMS, Visual Studio). Glad to see there other mainframe programmers on this forum !

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 04, 2026, 07:46:23 PMThe Calgary Stampeders rewarded the CFL's reigning rushing king, Dedrick Mills, by making him the highest-paid American running back.

Mills laying in bed at night, wondering "why couldn't I have been born in Canada?".

Surely Oullette will have to make a play for similar money...  Strange, but many/most Riderfans want him to walk if he is anything other than budget (read: similar to last deal).

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 04, 2026, 03:43:34 PMFord does not put in the mental work and relies too much on his athletic ability as that's how he's got by in the past.

So it's mental laziness then.  Well, we can 100% rule him out becoming a Bomber then!  MOS hates laziness more than any other thing.

Maybe Ty was the same way?  But as a DB you can wing it a lot more.

SSK (re-)signs Mariner, the IMP REC who looked ok in OTT for a couple of years.

I think it's a good fit for them.  Perfect for their mostly-cheap REC corps.  Decent hands, and can be a home run hitter or an inside bruiser.

I think this hints they are losing Meyer and/or Robustelli, as those would be the players most like Mariner.

SSK will be keeping the rest of the corps cheap now that Emilus got paid, and I think they still want to make a play for Johnson.  Need to keep saving up that $$ for the real priority: D.

BLM re-signs in HAM for $100k more than last year.  Still pretty "budget" compared to Zach.

Interesting: only $40k MMM.  HAM not playing the BC cheatin' game.  In fact, I haven't heard of any team paying anywhere near the cheatin' MMM amount BC is for Rourke.  Which is strange, because everyone can use that cheat code now.  I sure wish we'd renog Zach's to move $200k of his SMS to MMM.  Last I heard Zach was only getting $50k MMM, which seems to be pretty normal for (non-BC) QBs.

And the budgety-est QB in the whole league?  T.Harris.  Takes haircuts every year so his team can sign playmakers and win.  Zach??

Riders DL Micah Johnson officially retires and will remain in Green and White as he begins the next chapter as the Club's Defensive Line Coach.

https://3downnation.com/2026/01/05/micah-johnson-retires-from-playing-in-cfl-accepts-job-as-saskatchewan-roughriders-defensive-line-coach/

Quote from: Ridermania on January 05, 2026, 01:25:32 PMRiders DL Micah Johnson officially retires and will remain in Green and White as he begins the next chapter as the Club's Defensive Line Coach.

https://3downnation.com/2026/01/05/micah-johnson-retires-from-playing-in-cfl-accepts-job-as-saskatchewan-roughriders-defensive-line-coach/

Mica Johnson vs. Jake Thomas.  Which is going to be the better DL coach?

In SSK, both the HC and DC are ex DL (Mace)

In WPR, HC is ex-DB, DC is ex-DB.

Will be an interesting matchup.

Works, word, publisher  still on AOL " you got mail" love Meg Ryan.
Ford and Vag can't read a defence.

I have coached both O and D. Teaching some Hugh schoolers can be done.  But a lot of it is the QB. When all poop happens taking off and running is what has led to the kids success. And it's not even actual running , the threat of running scares the Defence, but escape ability, and breaking down the Defence is the killer.
Pre snap reads and alignment tell the offence what the defence is doing.
Down and distance tendencies by practice week film study tells the defence what is likely to be called.
Identifying slow guys on defence, or punishing weak guys on defence.

Give a QB two reads, and then throw it away, or take off, and run.that all happens in about a second. So it sounds easy. Easier said than done.
Young guys or even relics like Collaros can take off, and run, to make the next amount needed for a first is short. ( dump pass to a back or a crossing pattern by receiver(s).

Enjoy them while you can. Best before dates are approaching, asap.

VAJ has gotten better. He does seem tohave  emotional breakdowns though.

Quote from: Tecno on January 05, 2026, 06:36:03 AMMills laying in bed at night, wondering "why couldn't I have been born in Canada?".

Surely Oullette will have to make a play for similar money...  Strange, but many/most Riderfans want him to walk if he is anything other than budget (read: similar to last deal).

Last season Oullettie was the 2nd highest paid RB at:

Hard money: $152,100
Maximum value: $162,500

Last year he actually earned his paycheque after sputtering through his first season in Sask, don't think he'll put his hand out for more.

It will be interesting to see how long Andrew Harris hangs in as a running back coach earning below $100k, restless guy like that you'd think he'd be looking for bigger fish to fry.

Looks like Dru Brown has a new contract based on transaction activity on CFL.CA. What exactly changed we might hear over the next week or so.

Quote from: Blue In BC on January 05, 2026, 10:09:05 PMLooks like Dru Brown has a new contract based on transaction activity on CFL.CA. What exactly changed we might hear over the next week or so.

He wasn't scheduled to be a FA, must be a restructuring.  Not sure they should be paying him more but can't legitimately pay him less if he's the #1 QB.

Quote from: Jesse on January 04, 2026, 07:49:46 PMBrady about 100k over the highest paid american, same as last year.

That's disturbing. I don't understand why we went so overboard with his salary bump. I m all for guys getting paid what they're worth but Brady isn't worth $100k more than the league rushing leader. Heck Steve Scott would be a fraction of Brady's salary and just as effective and there's tons of Steve Scott's out there looking for a chance to play professional football. Things are way out of whack on this

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 05, 2026, 10:40:28 PMHe wasn't scheduled to be a FA, must be a restructuring.  Not sure they should be paying him more but can't legitimately pay him less if he's the #1 QB.

I'm betting they are paying him less. He didn't earn his salary last year.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 05, 2026, 05:27:53 PMIt will be interesting to see how long Andrew Harris hangs in as a running back coach earning below $100k, restless guy like that you'd think he'd be looking for bigger fish to fry.

Pretty sure $100k is the best AH can expect going forward.  Not the brightest bulb.  That's pretty good for a dim bulb who burnt every bridge in his hometown.

I hope he gets some respect in Regina, though.  I wonder if people thank him for turning Oullette from a loser into a powerhouse, or still spit on him for having kicked their butts in blue for 8 years straight.

I'm still his greatest fan, but man did the "happy ending" rewrite turn out to be crap.

Quote from: theaardvark on January 05, 2026, 04:01:26 PMMica Johnson vs. Jake Thomas.  Which is going to be the better DL coach?

They should make a ratio for the coaches cap!   ;D  ;D  ;D

Or how about $50k freebie extra pay outside the cap for every coach who is a NAT?  Extra bonus if they were a player in the CFL.

We'd clean up!

Quote from: dd on January 06, 2026, 02:27:08 AMThat's disturbing. I don't understand why we went so overboard with his salary bump. I m all for guys getting paid what they're worth but Brady isn't worth $100k more than the league rushing leader. Heck Steve Scott would be a fraction of Brady's salary and just as effective and there's tons of Steve Scott's out there looking for a chance to play professional football. Things are way out of whack on this

It's mostly just the difference between a high end Canadian starter and the next closest American. And Brady is certainly one to push his salary as high as he can manage. 

D.Alford signs with the Saints. He's the 1st option window player to sign a deal.

Quote from: Tecno on January 06, 2026, 03:11:43 AMPretty sure $100k is the best AH can expect going forward.  Not the brightest bulb.  That's pretty good for a dim bulb who burnt every bridge in his hometown.

I hope he gets some respect in Regina, though.  I wonder if people thank him for turning Oullette from a loser into a powerhouse, or still spit on him for having kicked their butts in blue for 8 years straight.

I'm still his greatest fan, but man did the "happy ending" rewrite turn out to be crap.

This is harsh, don't see evidence Harris is a dim bulb just because he didn't have a fairy tale ending in Blue.  As for his past, circumstances come into play and he's made a success of himself, he's street smart, focused and well spoken. He had a bad childhood which can scar people for life, just look at the mess that is Theoren Fleury. Same story for Brady, but fortunately he found support and focus in his teen years and went onto university where he found stability.

Jaylon Hutchings signs with Minnesota Vikings
https://x.com/i/status/2008608562050986103 (https://x.com/i/status/2008608562050986103)

Damien Alford signs with New Orleans Saints
https://x.com/i/status/2008607293839912975 (https://x.com/i/status/2008607293839912975)

Dohnte Meyers expected to sign with Cincinnati Bengals
https://x.com/i/status/2008624201230581864 (https://x.com/i/status/2008624201230581864)

LB Jacob Roberts (CGY) has signed with the Minnesota Vikings
https://x.com/i/status/2008662906574172375 (https://x.com/i/status/2008662906574172375)

DL Elliott Brown (EDM) has signed with the Arizona Cardinals
https://x.com/i/status/2008641056129339663 (https://x.com/i/status/2008641056129339663)

Well that's 5 players that have taken the NFL option so far. The good news is that nothing so far about Vaval. Also haven't heard anything about Wooden.

Quote from: Stats Junkie on January 06, 2026, 09:45:45 PMLB Jacob Roberts (CGY) has signed with the Minnesota Vikings
https://x.com/i/status/2008662906574172375 (https://x.com/i/status/2008662906574172375)

DL Elliott Brown (EDM) has signed with the Arizona Cardinals
https://x.com/i/status/2008641056129339663 (https://x.com/i/status/2008641056129339663)

Biggie moves one step closer to starting! He must be considering retirement though, this can't go on forever.

Seems These three are doing a good job

:The Stampeders' football operations staff for 2026 includes:

• Assistant general manager and director of player personnel Brendan Mahoney
• Director of U.S. scouting Cole Hufnagel
• Director of Canadian scouting and U.S. scout Dwayne Cameron:

I have thought that John Hufnagel seemed to have good contacts in US.