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1st & 10 | The Complete Blue Bombers QB Picture

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

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

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

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

THE STARTER

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

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

THE DEPTH CHART BEHIND COLLAROS

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

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

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

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

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

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

ON THE HORIZON?

Read the rest of the article here...

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

Long list on the neg list of QB's including Brian Ah Yat's son. You never know if or when a neg list player gets signed or even pursued by the team.

It's going to depend on what the team feels about the 3 already  competing behind Collaros. Two from 2025 may return for TC or be gone before. based either on the evaluation or a neg list choosing to come to Canada.

I'd expect at least a look at 1 or 2 more to add for the early days of TC. Tryout camps and NFL rejects may win an invitation.

Paveia would be a steal, although I think his career is in media if/when the NFL doesn't work. Other than that, still lots of intrigue. I think Wilson has stuck around more because of lack of competition or options than anything he has showed at any point.

Can't help but feel the Bombers will be behind the 8-ball from the start betting the farm on Zach again based on the 2 good performances he put up last season.  He's not even ranked in the top 6 QB's in ability anymore, don't know how they could sit through last season and not come to realize he's all out of magic beans and the poor results delivered were not everyone else's fault.  Maybe Zach will prove me wrong, but I seldom believe in what I can't see.

Not many options available this off-season but I would straight up trade him to the Argos for Arbuckle, he may not be the best but you get a cheaper, younger, more mobile QB with a decent arm that is intelligent enough to be coached to success with the help of a good OC.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 06, 2025, 12:50:40 AMNot many options available this off-season but I would straight up trade him to the Argos for Arbuckle, he may not be the best but you get a cheaper, younger, more mobile QB with a decent arm that is intelligent enough to be coached to success with the help of a good OC.

No offence, but this is straight up nonsense. I'll pound the table for Zach all day long, but even if the team wanted to trade him (they do not), he's a 600k QB. No one is trading for him when they already have their announced starter.

Quote from: Jesse on December 06, 2025, 02:47:04 AMNo offence, but this is straight up nonsense. I'll pound the table for Zach all day long, but even if the team wanted to trade him (they do not), he's a 600k QB. No one is trading for him when they already have their announced starter.

Based on what, other than your optimism?

I said I'd make that trade, not Kyle Walters.

Highly paid players do get traded and often as part of the deal they are forced to renegotiate their contract downward.  It happened a few years ago when Trevor Harris was traded from the Elks to the Als and took a massive chop in salary.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 06, 2025, 03:27:56 AMBased on what, other than your optimism?

I said I'd make that trade, not Kyle Walters.

Highly paid players do get traded and often as part of the deal they are forced to renegotiate their contract downward.  It happened a few years ago when Trevor Harris was traded from the Elks to the Als and took a massive chop in salary.

We can all agree that Zach did not perform exceptionally well in 2025.  But too many people are putting it all on Zach.  He had a new OC who seemed to struggle and could be replaced in 2026, and a weaker Oline that will require upgrades and who were responsible for protecting Zach who was under pressure most of the year.  He also had receivers who also struggled this past season.

Just to say it was not all on Zach.  He deserves another year with some necessary upgrades before deciding he should take a reduced role or be traded.

Quote from: ModAdmin on December 06, 2025, 05:40:48 AMWe can all agree that Zach did not perform exceptionally well in 2025.  But too many people are putting it all on Zach.  He had a new OC who seemed to struggle and could be replaced in 2026, and a weaker Oline that will require upgrades and who were responsible for protecting Zach who was under pressure most of the year.  He also had receivers who also struggled this past season.

Just to say it was not all on Zach.  He deserves another year with some necessary upgrades before deciding he should take a reduced role or be traded.

Certainly other factors involved, but in most games last season he couldn't take advantage of clear opportunities when they presented themselves, receivers would get open and too often he would under-throw them or throw interceptions.  He's been doing the same for over 2 years now, which matches how long the offence has been under-performing.  This season they blamed it on Hogan, the season before Buck.  What miracle is going to transform him?

Never thought Buck was a problem. His offence got us to the Cup a few times.

Quote from: ModAdmin on December 07, 2025, 12:28:08 AMNever thought Buck was a problem. His offence got us to the Cup a few times.

Pierce is a good OC and coach overall. The evidence is in the overall numbers (team and individual stats), even if those teams failed to get over the hump (thrice).

Losing him was evidently detrimental to the team considering how inept the offense was in 2025.

Quote from: kkc60 on December 06, 2025, 12:01:43 AMPaveia would be a steal, although I think his career is in media if/when the NFL doesn't work. Other than that, still lots of intrigue. I think Wilson has stuck around more because of lack of competition or options than anything he has showed at any point.

Pavia would be great, but I believe a little too much in him. I think he'll go to the NFL in one of the later rounds.

My mind is 100% set on Taylor Elgersma. He has worked out for a few teams before the start of the season, and he's worked out for a couple more during the season. He is currently working out for Chicago who has 3 rostered QB's, but non on their practice roster.
With him not being on a roster right now, I feel pretty good about him looking to actually play football next season for us! He'd be QB2 and he would have a fantastic mentor in Zach! Hopefully Zach plays well next season, and maybe we give Taylor a real chance the following season.

Quote from: LXTSN on December 09, 2025, 04:06:04 PMPavia would be great, but I believe a little too much in him. I think he'll go to the NFL in one of the later rounds.

My mind is 100% set on Taylor Elgersma. He has worked out for a few teams before the start of the season, and he's worked out for a couple more during the season. He is currently working out for Chicago who has 3 rostered QB's, but non on their practice roster.
With him not being on a roster right now, I feel pretty good about him looking to actually play football next season for us! He'd be QB2 and he would have a fantastic mentor in Zach! Hopefully Zach plays well next season, and maybe we give Taylor a real chance the following season.

Not sure how the NFL workouts work but if a player moves on to the next workout with a different team, does that mean the previous team is passing on him?  Isn't that the time a team would offer a player a contract if they wanted to retain them?

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 09, 2025, 04:49:49 PMNot sure how the NFL workouts work but if a player moves on to the next workout with a different team, does that mean the previous team is passing on him?  Isn't that the time a team would offer a player a contract if they wanted to retain them?

Futures contracts are offered in February.

Most of these these teams are probably just doing due diligence on if they want to sign him later. Or his agent has ties within certain organizations, so they're giving him a shot as a favour.

The Colts have just signed the corpse of Phillip Rivers to their practice roster. If there was a team who thought Elgersma had it, they'd have signed him already, imo.

Quote from: Jesse on December 09, 2025, 05:55:24 PMFutures contracts are offered in February.

Most of these these teams are probably just doing due diligence on if they want to sign him later. Or his agent has ties within certain organizations, so they're giving him a shot as a favour.

The Colts have just signed the corpse of Phillip Rivers to their practice roster. If there was a team who thought Elgersma had it, they'd have signed him already, imo.

I think this is accurate. Teams like the Bears or the 49ers that have a solid record aren't going to show much interest in snagging him now, but rather look at how he's improved and see if they want to give him a shot at making the roster next season. With that being said, there are lots of QB's coming out of college, projected to go in the later rounds of the draft, that automatically have a leg up on Elgersma if they get drafted. At best they give him one more preseason shot, and add him to another practice roster.

The Philip Rivers thing is hilarious! I can't believe they picked up a 44 year old man to run their playoff team, after retiring for 5 years!

It would be wise on Elgersma to sign up here and really get his career rolling. His toiling down there is fruitless.

Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on December 10, 2025, 03:33:18 PMIt would be wise on Elgersma to sign up here and really get his career rolling. His toiling down there is fruitless.

But the reward is so much higher if he's able to crack an active roster in the NFL. I also find it extremely unlikely, but I'd never knock him for trying!
He's only 23 years old, so there's lots of time.

Can we all agree that we should look to replace both Strev and Wilson??
Not saying it will actually happen with how stubborn our upper management has been, but without a doubt in my mind, it would be the right decision...

Quote from: LXTSN on December 10, 2025, 03:42:32 PMBut the reward is so much higher if he's able to crack an active roster in the NFL. I also find it extremely unlikely, but I'd never knock him for trying!
He's only 23 years old, so there's lots of time.

Can we all agree that we should look to replace both Strev and Wilson??
Not saying it will actually happen with how stubborn our upper management has been, but without a doubt in my mind, it would be the right decision...

In the case of Streveler he may not even be ready for half a season, but yes we should move on from him.

Wilson's ceiling is not really anything we know with certainty. I'm not expecting to add a more experience QB in free agency, but that's possible.

On the surface Perkins may have more upside and experience ( from USFL ). Wilson has been on our roster for 2 seasons but we're expecting a new OC so his advantage may have disappeared. Some posters need to comment on what they saw in any practices they saw.

It's probably safe to think Wilson is pencilled in as the # 2 until a move is made.  As we've mentioned there are 11 QB's on the neg list and in theory someone might be added by TC.

I'd like to think Wilson gets a shot in TC to prove he belongs but he's a TBD.

Quote from: LXTSN on December 10, 2025, 03:42:32 PMBut the reward is so much higher if he's able to crack an active roster in the NFL. I also find it extremely unlikely, but I'd never knock him for trying!
He's only 23 years old, so there's lots of time.

Can we all agree that we should look to replace both Strev and Wilson??
Not saying it will actually happen with how stubborn our upper management has been, but without a doubt in my mind, it would be the right decision...

Strev should absolutely be done as a player at this point in his life.

I do not want the Bombers to be in a place where we're depending on Wilson to start games, but if we kept someone on the roster to be the SY guy, I'm more than happy with him filling that role.

Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on December 10, 2025, 03:33:18 PMIt would be wise on Elgersma to sign up here and really get his career rolling. His toiling down there is fruitless.

Elgersma at #2 here would be less visibility than a PR in the NFL. 

Now, if he gets a legit chance to be #1, if Collaros renegotiates his contract with a low salary and game start bonus, and Elgersma gets the same, were I he, I'd sign in an instant.

But signing behind a veteran that was kept in the GC by his current coach even though he could not grip the football, I wouldn't like my chances of getting in the game and making game film to shop south of the border.

Make it worth his while.  Give him a legit shot at taking over BEFORE Collaros leaves (or get knocked out).  Platoon Collaros to extend his career.

I know there is less than 0% chance that can happen.  We will stick with Collaros again, and Elgersma will have a slight chance of choosing to come north and ride a CFL bench over a much more lucrative NFL bench.

I agree that Wilson hasn't really been given the chance, but he's had a few opportunities and he hasn't exactly shined.
He is a solid short yardage QB.

In a perfect world, I would like to have this:
QB1 - Star QB / Starter
QB2 - Solid serviceable veteran. Jake Maier, MBT, Crum... etc. Someone that can win you games short term, but not a championship.
QB3 - Prospect / potential future starter. He would ideally be your short yardage QB as well.

I think we had a bad QB room last season with 2 short yardage QB's and Collaros struggled.
Hoping that Zach can come back from a down season. He's oldish QB's can last a long time!

Quote from: LXTSN on December 10, 2025, 06:01:58 PMQB2 - Solid serviceable veteran. Jake Maier, MBT, Crum... etc. Someone that can win you games short term, but not a championship.

I'm pretty sure all of Maier, MBT, Crum are well under .500 in their last 10 starts.  There's a reason they are backups -- and probably with worse records than Strev!

Quote from: theaardvark on December 10, 2025, 05:13:52 PMElgersma at #2 here would be less visibility than a PR in the NFL. 

Now, if he gets a legit chance to be #1, if Collaros renegotiates his contract with a low salary and game start bonus, and Elgersma gets the same, were I he, I'd sign in an instant.

But signing behind a veteran that was kept in the GC by his current coach even though he could not grip the football, I wouldn't like my chances of getting in the game and making game film to shop south of the border.

Make it worth his while.  Give him a legit shot at taking over BEFORE Collaros leaves (or get knocked out).  Platoon Collaros to extend his career.

I know there is less than 0% chance that can happen.  We will stick with Collaros again, and Elgersma will have a slight chance of choosing to come north and ride a CFL bench over a much more lucrative NFL bench.

There really is no evidence Elgersma will be an instant fix or better than any other Import QB the Bombers could recruit.  Paying him Tre Ford money upfront may get him to sign sooner but could also create a problem if he doesn't pan out like Ford has in Edmonton.  Apparently with the signing of Fajardo Hervey intends to find a way to dump Ford's salary, could be the biggest story of the off-season, logical destination for him is BC as Rourke's backup.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 11, 2025, 06:10:55 PMThere really is no evidence Elgersma will be an instant fix or better than any other Import QB the Bombers could recruit.  Paying him Tre Ford money upfront may get him to sign sooner but could also create a problem if he doesn't pan out like Ford has in Edmonton.  Apparently with the signing of Fajardo Hervey intends to find a way to dump Ford's salary, could be the biggest story of the off-season, logical destination for him is BC as Rourke's backup.

Why is BC a logical destination? Just because the Lions start a Canadian QB doesn't mean anything. It all comes down to any new SMS cost if he's released outright.

For the same money as Wilson, I'd take him in Winnipeg. He certainly has more current experience than any of our back up choices. He may never become a good # 2 but is he better than what we currently have?

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 11, 2025, 06:14:47 PMWhy is BC a logical destination? Just because the Lions start a Canadian QB doesn't mean anything. It all comes down to any new SMS cost if he's released outright.

For the same money as Wilson, I'd take him in Winnipeg. He certainly has more current experience than any of our back up choices. He may never become a good # 2 but is he better than what we currently have?

Yes Ford's nationality is the first consideration, with the way Rourke plays he's sure to miss a bunch of games every season.  Plus Mazoli is done and Brice hasn't shown much yet so they need to upgrade their backup QB situation.  Somebody somewhere is going to pay Ford at least $200k for his potential, don't think he'd squeeze in under Wilson's modest salary.

Quote from: LXTSN on December 10, 2025, 06:01:58 PMI agree that Wilson hasn't really been given the chance, but he's had a few opportunities and he hasn't exactly shined.
He is a solid short yardage QB.

In a perfect world, I would like to have this:
QB1 - Star QB / Starter
QB2 - Solid serviceable veteran. Jake Maier, MBT, Crum... etc. Someone that can win you games short term, but not a championship.
QB3 - Prospect / potential future starter. He would ideally be your short yardage QB as well.

I think we had a bad QB room last season with 2 short yardage QB's and Collaros struggled.
Hoping that Zach can come back from a down season. He's oldish QB's can last a long time!

he has not been a good sport yardage QB, he's actually been pretty not good at it.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 06, 2025, 12:50:40 AMCan't help but feel the Bombers will be behind the 8-ball from the start betting the farm on Zach again based on the 2 good performances he put up last season.  He's not even ranked in the top 6 QB's in ability anymore, don't know how they could sit through last season and not come to realize he's all out of magic beans and the poor results delivered were not everyone else's fault.  Maybe Zach will prove me wrong, but I seldom believe in what I can't see.

Not many options available this off-season but I would straight up trade him to the Argos for Arbuckle, he may not be the best but you get a cheaper, younger, more mobile QB with a decent arm that is intelligent enough to be coached to success with the help of a good OC.

Colleros didn't have a great season in 2025 however I do think a lot of that had to do with the poor play of the offensive line. Oliveras numbers were down from previous years largely for the same reason.

Quote from: kkc60 on December 18, 2025, 08:59:57 PMhe has not been a good sport yardage QB, he's actually been pretty not good at it.

I thought Wilson has been solid at short yardage. Very rarely got stuffed, and doing it behind a middling O-line. He went for longer gains at least once or twice also. He's not Tommy Stevens, but he's more than adequate. He's nothing more than a short yardage QB IMO though. We need a real #2.

Quote from: bwiser on December 18, 2025, 09:56:02 PMColleros didn't have a great season in 2025 however I do think a lot of that had to do with the poor play of the offensive line. Oliveras numbers were down from previous years largely for the same reason.

Brady's numbers weren't down at all. He had less carries because he missed 4 games.

He had the same yards per carry as his previous couple of years and set a new career high in receptions and receiving yards.

Quote from: Jesse on December 18, 2025, 11:27:07 PMBrady's numbers weren't down at all. He had less carries because he missed 4 games.

He had the same yards per carry as his previous couple of years and set a new career high in receptions and receiving yards.

I think the concern wasn't with the overall, but the specific.  There were times and games where he got mostly ignored when he knows he could have made a difference.

When the game is on the line, winners want the ball.

Quote from: kkc60 on December 18, 2025, 08:59:57 PMhe has not been a good sport yardage QB, he's actually been pretty not good at it.

This is 100% false.  Strev and Wilson both ran around 90% on SY last year, both did a good job.  See stats Junkies table. Numbers tell the truth.  He gets a good push, he is fast, he is athletic and consistently good on SY.

Quote from: bunker on December 18, 2025, 10:09:21 PMI thought Wilson has been solid at short yardage. Very rarely got stuffed, and doing it behind a middling O-line. He went for longer gains at least once or twice also. He's not Tommy Stevens, but he's more than adequate. He's nothing more than a short yardage QB IMO though. We need a real #2.

Wilson could develop into more.  Hasn't had enough reps to know what he is.  Agree good on SY.

Zach is still a top QB.  Need a above average OL, a solid run game and a couple deep threats.  No worries about him but he needs the horses to help him.  He can't carry us.  Time for the rest of the club to help him as he heads into his home stretch.  We have enough QB prospects in the pipe and if they don't work we can buy or trade for one.  Excited for next year but need to sign more vets.  I would like to see 75% Zach and 25% other options next year in terms of reps.

Quote from: Blueforlife on December 23, 2025, 04:46:43 PMThis is 100% false.  Strev and Wilson both ran around 90% on SY last year, both did a good job.  See stats Junkies table. Numbers tell the truth.  He gets a good push, he is fast, he is athletic and consistently good on SY.Wilson could develop into more.  Hasn't had enough reps to know what he is.  Agree good on SY.

Zach is still a top QB.  Need a above average OL, a solid run game and a couple deep threats.  No worries about him but he needs the horses to help him.  He can't carry us.  Time for the rest of the club to help him as he heads into his home stretch.  We have enough QB prospects in the pipe and if they don't work we can buy or trade for one.  Excited for next year but need to sign more vets.  I would like to see 75% Zach and 25% other options next year in terms of reps.

You'd really want a different QB playing an entire quarter every game?

Quote from: Blueforlife on December 23, 2025, 04:46:43 PMThis is 100% false.  Strev and Wilson both ran around 90% on SY last year, both did a good job.  See stats Junkies table. Numbers tell the truth.  He gets a good push, he is fast, he is athletic and consistently good on SY.Wilson could develop into more.  Hasn't had enough reps to know what he is.  Agree good on SY.

Zach is still a top QB.  Need a above average OL, a solid run game and a couple deep threats.  No worries about him but he needs the horses to help him.  He can't carry us.  Time for the rest of the club to help him as he heads into his home stretch.  We have enough QB prospects in the pipe and if they don't work we can buy or trade for one.  Excited for next year but need to sign more vets.  I would like to see 75% Zach and 25% other options next year in terms of reps.

Nobody rotates QB's like that. Huge drop off between any # 1 and # 2. That makes it difficult to get playing time for the other QB's while a game is on the line. OTOH, if a game is won or lost by lopsided score, there are opportunities in a given season.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 23, 2025, 06:10:51 PMNobody rotates QB's like that. Huge drop off between any # 1 and # 2. That makes it difficult to get playing time for the other QB's while a game is on the line. OTOH, if a game is won or lost by lopsided score, there are opportunities in a given season.

Not entirely true, at times teams including ours has had packages for the #2.  Yes most run the #1 but there are other ways and yes the traditional garbage time.

Quote from: Jesse on December 23, 2025, 05:55:00 PMYou'd really want a different QB playing an entire quarter every game?

Nope but sprinkle them in.  Give packages.  Play backups when game out of hand.  Give backups reps when Zach is hurt.  Big fan of riding the #1 but now is the time to develop #2 and 3. Maybe 25% was a little high 15 to 20?  I'm dreaming as MOS won't do this but I can dream lol.

Quote from: Blueforlife on December 23, 2025, 06:46:42 PMNot entirely true, at times teams including ours has had packages for the #2.  Yes most run the #1 but there are other ways and yes the traditional garbage time.
Nope but sprinkle them in.  Give packages.  Play backups when game out of hand.  Give backups reps when Zach is hurt.  Big fan of riding the #1 but now is the time to develop #2 and 3. Maybe 25% was a little high 15 to 20?  I'm dreaming as MOS won't do this but I can dream lol.

It was very fun to watch when we had a package for Streveler. He stayed in after a short yardage play to give the defense a different look.
I don't think it could be replicated, without having a top notch #2 short yardage QB that can scramble. We just don't have that right now.

Quote from: Blueforlife on December 23, 2025, 06:46:42 PMNot entirely true, at times teams including ours has had packages for the #2.  Yes most run the #1 but there are other ways and yes the traditional garbage time.
Nope but sprinkle them in.  Give packages.  Play backups when game out of hand.  Give backups reps when Zach is hurt.  Big fan of riding the #1 but now is the time to develop #2 and 3. Maybe 25% was a little high 15 to 20?  I'm dreaming as MOS won't do this but I can dream lol.

A few select option plays is not 25% and I see you back tracked that original amount. Even that is usually if the 2nd QB is the SY guy and stays in for part of that series.

If the # 1 QB is injured and the # 2 is starting, that might be the worst time to tinker giving the # 3 playing time. Having the # 2 QB win is more important and the harder thing to achieve.

That's true even when the # 2 QB is a veteran like Arbuckle or MBT.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 23, 2025, 07:52:52 PMA few select option plays is not 25% and I see you back tracked that original amount. Even that is usually if the 2nd QB is the SY guy and stays in for part of that series.

If the # 1 QB is injured and the # 2 is starting, that might be the worst time to tinker giving the # 3 playing time. Having the # 2 QB win is more important and the harder thing to achieve.

That's true even when the # 2 QB is a veteran like Arbuckle or MBT.

It's a discussion.  I didn't back track on anything.  Collectively we can discuss what % we would like to see (simply threw some #s out there to see what others think, simply said maybe 25 was a little high, Jesse got me thinking about my # a bit).  It's one opinion on how much they would like to see the other QBs play.  I don't think MOS plays our backups enough.  There is merit in riding your #1 but I don't think that's a great plan when they are near the end of their career.  You suggested that nobody rotates their QBs like that which isn't true.  We have done it, other teams have done it (yes we don't give our backups many reps but does happen, other teams have done this alot, EDM comes to mind).  Doesn't mean it's right or wrong or works all the time but it has been done.  I wasn't talking about a few select options plays.  I am talking about giving our #2 (mostly) and #3 packages and development time.  If the #1 is hurt then the #2 get most the reps and the #3 can get a few as well.  My point was I want to see our QBs develop under Zach (ideally).  How much development time I would like to see depends on who our #2 and #3 and how they look in camp.  Way to early to know.  Just speculating.

Winning is always the #1 goal and that's what we all want.  However a little balance in winning now and developing our QBs and allowing them to make some mistakes and learn should be considered imo.  A little pain in the present often can help you in the future.  I want to be good for a decade not just next year.

If you don't believe in giving our #2 and #3 much reps that's all good.  The rest of us can debate how much we would like to see them play this year.

The downside of development reps is that it takes the ball our of your baller's hands at times.  It also can disrupt the flow.  Not an easy thing to do and like LXTSN has said takes a special skill set.  I also enjoyed watching Strev come in at times.  When it works it's magic.  Magic tricks are hard to be consistent at.  I have been a huge Zach supporter from the start and have defended him when he has been down.  His leadership and skill set is one that we could use not only to win but to download to the next gen.  Does that happen in games or just in practice, we shall see.

You originally said huge drop off between #1 and #2 which is generally true but not always.  We have seen teams with #1A and #1B guys.  Usually when neither is really any good LOL.  This year we seen some QBs step up and play pretty good that were not seen as #1 guys anymore.  It's more fluid than you suggest (sometimes).

My gut tells me we ride Zach unless hurt.  If our #2 shows incredible talent then MOS MIGHT give him a sniff.  My point is give them an extra sniff LOL.

My original 75% Zach 25% backups was based on reps over the season as a whole not per game.

Quote from: Blueforlife on December 23, 2025, 08:06:45 PMIt's a discussion.  I didn't back track on anything.  Collectively we can discuss what % we would like to see (simply threw some #s out there to see what others think, simply said maybe 25 was a little high, Jesse got me thinking about my # a bit).  It's one opinion on how much they would like to see the other QBs play.  I don't think MOS plays our backups enough.  There is merit in riding your #1 but I don't think that's a great plan when they are near the end of their career.  You suggested that nobody rotates their QBs like that which isn't true.  We have done it, other teams have done it (yes we don't give our backups many reps but does happen, other teams have done this alot, EDM comes to mind).  Doesn't mean it's right or wrong or works all the time but it has been done.  I wasn't talking about a few select options plays.  I am talking about giving our #2 (mostly) and #3 packages and development time.  If the #1 is hurt then the #2 get most the reps and the #3 can get a few as well.  My point was I want to see our QBs develop under Zach (ideally).  How much development time I would like to see depends on who our #2 and #3 and how they look in camp.  Way to early to know.  Just speculating.

Winning is always the #1 goal and that's what we all want.  However a little balance in winning now and developing our QBs and allowing them to make some mistakes and learn should be considered imo.  A little pain in the present often can help you in the future.  I want to be good for a decade not just next year.

If you don't believe in giving our #2 and #3 much reps that's all good.  The rest of us can debate how much we would like to see them play this year.

The downside of development reps is that it takes the ball our of your baller's hands at times.  It also can disrupt the flow.  Not an easy thing to do and like LXTSN has said takes a special skill set.  I also enjoyed watching Strev come in at times.  When it works it's magic.  Magic tricks are hard to be consistent at.  I have been a huge Zach supporter from the start and have defended him when he has been down.  His leadership and skill set is one that we could use not only to win but to download to the next gen.  Does that happen in games or just in practice, we shall see.

You originally said huge drop off between #1 and #2 which is generally true but not always.  We have seen teams with #1A and #1B guys.  Usually when neither is really any good LOL.  This year we seen some QBs step up and play pretty good that were not seen as #1 guys anymore.  It's more fluid than you suggest (sometimes).

My gut tells me we ride Zach unless hurt.  If our #2 shows incredible talent then MOS MIGHT give him a sniff.  My point is give them an extra sniff LOL.

My original 75% Zach 25% backups was based on reps over the season as a whole not per game.

You followed up by saying maybe 25% was high and offered 15-20%. That's a back track by definition. MOS doesn't play his back ups enough and that becomes more of an issue with no clear # 2.

You can't really predict how much opportunity time there might be a season. So many games aren't decided until the final 3 minutes. I seriously doubt that any team saw the # 2 QB get significant time unless the # 1 was injured.

What team do you think did that? Elks demoted Ford before Fajardo became the starter but he wasn't seeing the field much before that demotion.

At this point none of us are really sure what our depth order will look like. For that matter we aren't sure who will be on the roster.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign former Michigan State, Auburn QB Payton Thorne

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/23/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-former-michigan-state-auburn-qb-payton-thorne/

Quote from: gobombersgo on December 23, 2025, 08:48:24 PMWinnipeg Blue Bombers sign former Michigan State, Auburn QB Payton Thorne

https://3downnation.com/2025/12/23/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-former-michigan-state-auburn-qb-payton-thorne/

Well, I think we might actually get a real competition for the back ups at QB.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 23, 2025, 08:43:30 PMYou followed up by saying maybe 25% was high and offered 15-20%. That's a back track by definition. MOS doesn't play his back ups enough and that becomes more of an issue with no clear # 2.

You can't really predict how much opportunity time there might be a season. So many games aren't decided until the final 3 minutes. I seriously doubt that any team saw the # 2 QB get significant time unless the # 1 was injured.

What team do you think did that? Elks demoted Ford before Fajardo became the starter but he wasn't seeing the field much before that demotion.

At this point none of us are really sure what our depth order will look like. For that matter we aren't sure who will be on the roster.

I will go on record stating that 25% is my desired amount of playing time for our backups total over the entire season.  I am not back tracking on that.  Willing to discuss what others want and that's why I floated different numbers and was looking for a discussion on the matter.  Not asking for significant playing time.  Looking for our backups to get packages, garbage time and play when Zach is hurt.  You stated that other teams don't play their backups and they have and do.  I don't care what other teams did, what we normally do or what is "normal".  I believe getting our backups playing time next season is very desirable.  Best we move on.

Good point about us not having a clue what will happen and yes the league has parity and likely less garbage time going forward for a bit.  Days of the Kerwin Bell being blown out by 50 are behind us lol.

Quote from: Jesse on December 23, 2025, 10:32:07 PMI will go on record as saying that I want the back-up QB to take 0% of normal offensive snaps.

Wow interesting, are you currently in line in a competition for a coaching mentorship under MOS.  You just checked the 1st box lol.

All joking aside I like this % game.  Hope others chime in.  Tells a story.

Quote from: Blueforlife on December 23, 2025, 10:29:20 PMI will go on record stating that 25% is my desired amount of playing time for our backups total over the entire season.  I am not back tracking on that.  Willing to discuss what others want and that's why I floated different numbers.  Not asking for significant playing time.  Looking for our backups to get packages, garbage time and play when Zach is hurt.  You stated that other teams don't play their backups and they have and do.  Best we move on.

I will go on record as saying that I want the back-up QB to take 0% of normal offensive snaps.

I'd have no issue with back up QB's playing 25% of the time if situations allowed. The development time is essentially and it reduces the risk of injury to the starter.

Looking at the game scores from 2025 I only saw a couple of games where leads were insurmountable to create that opportunity. Hence deciding how much of a lead is ever enough is the catch / gamble.

Quote from: Jesse on December 23, 2025, 10:32:07 PMI will go on record as saying that I want the back-up QB to take 0% of normal offensive snaps.

LOL

I think Collaros would have benefitted from some "load management".

One series here and there, a package when the SY team comes in, and then stay in for a trick package.

Not sure 25% is the right number, but it should be more than only SY.

Quote from: theaardvark on December 24, 2025, 12:18:56 AMI think Collaros would have benefitted from some "load management".

One series here and there, a package when the SY team comes in, and then stay in for a trick package.

Not sure 25% is the right number, but it should be more than only SY.

I agree. It helps when you have a big lead though.

25% is a lot. Even 10% is a lot, but I think that's the higher end in a system that works.
Not including injuries of course and assuming you have the best back up in the league and he can run.
It was really only that season or 2 when Streveler was a top backup in the league.

Quote from: LXTSN on December 24, 2025, 01:53:55 PM25% is a lot. Even 10% is a lot, but I think that's the higher end in a system that works.
Not including injuries of course and assuming you have the best back up in the league and he can run.
It was really only that season or 2 when Streveler was a top backup in the league.

It was sure a luxury running Strev that much back in the day.  One can dream!

That was real special time for us at QB.  If Zach needs a few maintenance games, 25% would be in reach.  Knock on wood.  Hopefully he remembers to answer his phone or emails early season.  I bet they gave him pager lol.

Would be cool to see #'s on what % each team played their starters last few years.

Quote from: Jesse on December 10, 2025, 04:54:34 PMStrev should absolutely be done as a player at this point in his life.

I do not want the Bombers to be in a place where we're depending on Wilson to start games, but if we kept someone on the roster to be the SY guy, I'm more than happy with him filling that role.

How do we know if Wilson is any good? Or if he could become good?

He's had very limited playing time.

Quote from: markf on December 24, 2025, 07:39:01 PMHow do we know if Wilson is any good? Or if he could become good?

He's had very limited playing time.

He's been here for two years and hasn't earned any reps over a shell of Chris Streveler. I'm of the opinion that guys show very quickly if they are going to be good or not. Wilson looks like any other guy that's tried and failed, imo.

I go to to a few practices a year as well and he throws more interceptions than completions.

Quote from: Jesse on December 24, 2025, 07:51:03 PMHe's been here for two years and hasn't earned any reps over a shell of Chris Streveler. I'm of the opinion that guys show very quickly if they are going to be good or not. Wilson looks like any other guy that's tried and failed, imo.

I go to to a few practices a year as well and he throws more interceptions than completions.

Q: Has Wilson been given a fair shot to show his abilitiy?

A: Nooooooo.

IMO Wilson will never be anything more than a short yardage guy, but he's good at it.
Artopoeus is too young and inexperienced to rely upon as the #2. Same with Elgersma if he even comes here next season.
Bryce Perkins is intriguing but who knows how he'll adapt to the CFL game, and he has zero CFL experience.
I would feel more comfortable if Walters brought in a QB with CFL experience as the #2, especially with Zach getting older and showing a greater tendency to get injured. Maier, MBT, Crum, Powell, Shlitz, all can win you games, and would be preferable to going with an unknown.

Quote from: bunker on December 24, 2025, 08:44:45 PMIMO Wilson will never be anything more than a short yardage guy, but he's good at it.
Artopoeus is too young and inexperienced to rely upon as the #2. Same with Elgersma if he even comes here next season.
Bryce Perkins is intriguing but who knows how he'll adapt to the CFL game, and he has zero CFL experience.
I would feel more comfortable if Walters brought in a QB with CFL experience as the #2, especially with Zach getting older and showing a greater tendency to get injured. Maier, MBT, Crum, Powell, Shlitz, all can win you games, and would be preferable to going with an unknown.

I'd far rather take a chance on a prospect with unknown but potential CFL ability over a retread.  Sorry, I'd rather have a won't be than a never was, as long as there is a chance he's the next one.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 24, 2025, 08:14:03 PMQ: Has Wilson been given a fair shot to show his abilitiy?

A: Nooooooo.

What do you think they do everyday?

we currently don't have our #2 Qb on our roster, we have to go find one.

Quote from: Jesse on December 24, 2025, 09:23:08 PMWhat do you think they do everyday?

If he's that bad, why keep him around for years?

Keeping a quarterback for several years, who you know isn't good enough to actually play quarterback in a game, is not very smart. Just to run for a first down on third and short?  All the while having nobody good enough to actually run the offence?

Seems like a formula for losing when your starter gets hurt.

I think they're pretty smart, so I doubt this is what has happened.

Quote from: markf on December 24, 2025, 10:20:16 PMIf he's that bad, why keep him around for years?

Keeping a quarterback for several years, who you know isn't good enough to actually play quarterback in a game, is not very smart. Just to run for a first down on third and short?  All the while having nobody good enough to actually run the offence?

Seems like a formula for losing when your starter gets hurt.

I think they're pretty smart, so I doubt this is what has happened.

Well, I guess we'll see if he comes back. It was his second year and he was good as a SY QB, which is all he ever should have been asked to do as a #3. So I don't think he was kept around too long.

But I think we know enough to move on now unless he is returning to be a specialist.

Quote from: markf on December 24, 2025, 10:20:16 PMIf he's that bad, why keep him around for years?

Keeping a quarterback for several years, who you know isn't good enough to actually play quarterback in a game, is not very smart. Just to run for a first down on third and short?  All the while having nobody good enough to actually run the offence?

Seems like a formula for losing when your starter gets hurt.

I think they're pretty smart, so I doubt this is what has happened.

I don't think they think in such black and white terms as "not good enough to play QB in a game". They assess their skills as a potential starter, and my guess is that if Zach is currently a B to B+, and Strev was a C, then Wilson was grading out as a C-. Not great. But not necessarily worse than any other QB on the planet either. Plus factor in that he already knows the offence to some extent, he's good at short yardage, and he may be a high character guy as well. So, before you let him go, you need to find someone who either grades higher right now, or shows the potential to surpass him. In the latter situation, where there is just future potential, my guess is they will keep a QB like that on the PR. In TC, if anyone shows better than Wilson, or a lot more potential that Wilson, Wilson may be cut. But its not a given until they assess the other QBs. And its not a given that whoever is kept instead of Wilson is all that great either, and may not be seen as ready to start in a game either. Sometimes you may have to keep a QB on the roster that your not thrilled with in terms of getting real game reps, because there is not much better available, or the available options are too expensive.

Quote from: markf on December 24, 2025, 10:20:16 PMKeeping a quarterback for several years, who you know isn't good enough to actually play quarterback in a game, is not very smart.

Dom Davis says hi.  Another WFC waste of time.  Man they tried hard to make him a #1, then at the very end a SY.  He stunk at both.

Wilson is like Dom Redux.  Sad.

Quote from: Jesse on December 24, 2025, 07:51:03 PMHe's been here for two years and hasn't earned any reps over a shell of Chris Streveler. I'm of the opinion that guys show very quickly if they are going to be good or not.

Except as everyone always brings up: Calvillo says hi.  I wasn't watching when he was starting out or getting good, but people tell me he was pretty bad for many, many years.  Then he was the best.

That said, I think it would take a miracle for Wilson to be the next Calvillo.  Clearly Calvillo has a lot going on upstairs (he's now a very good OC!) -- Wilson sounds like he has as much upstairs as Kenny does.

Quote from: Tecno on December 25, 2025, 04:19:04 AMExcept as everyone always brings up: Calvillo says hi.  I wasn't watching when he was starting out or getting good, but people tell me he was pretty bad for many, many years.  Then he was the best.

That said, I think it would take a miracle for Wilson to be the next Calvillo.  Clearly Calvillo has a lot going on upstairs (he's now a very good OC!) -- Wilson sounds like he has as much upstairs as Kenny does.

Calvillio was also a 21 year old rookie starting for an expansion team and still had nearly double the yards/attempt of Wilson in his age 27 year old season playing for his second year of the most veteran team in the league.

They just aren't comparable.

Quote from: bunker on December 24, 2025, 11:55:46 PMI don't think they think in such black and white terms as "not good enough to play QB in a game". Sometimes you may have to keep a QB on the roster that your not thrilled with in terms of getting real game reps, because there is not much better available, or the available options are too expensive.

Thanks....Very Good explanation.  Makes sense.

 I

Wilson is exactly = to Dom Davis, move on already

Quote from: bunker on December 24, 2025, 11:55:46 PMI don't think they think in such black and white terms as "not good enough to play QB in a game". They assess their skills as a potential starter, and my guess is that if Zach is currently a B to B+, and Strev was a C, then Wilson was grading out as a C-. Not great. But not necessarily worse than any other QB on the planet either. Plus factor in that he already knows the offence to some extent, he's good at short yardage, and he may be a high character guy as well. So, before you let him go, you need to find someone who either grades higher right now, or shows the potential to surpass him. In the latter situation, where there is just future potential, my guess is they will keep a QB like that on the PR. In TC, if anyone shows better than Wilson, or a lot more potential that Wilson, Wilson may be cut. But its not a given until they assess the other QBs. And its not a given that whoever is kept instead of Wilson is all that great either, and may not be seen as ready to start in a game either. Sometimes you may have to keep a QB on the roster that your not thrilled with in terms of getting real game reps, because there is not much better available, or the available options are too expensive.

I don't believe for a second they spent any time evaluating QB skills last TC, the pecking order was pre-determined before anyone showed up for TC. Once they decided to re-sign Strev despite his iffy injury status it was a given he was coming in as the #2, which might have been a condition his agent insisted upon in his contract negotiations. 

Many argued at the time this was a mistake as Strev has never shown the ability needed to progress beyond the "Go Go Gadget" QB he's always been. The ample playing time he received in 2025 proved his detractors right.  Valuable game time that could have been used to evaluate the future of the QB position was wasted on a temporary fix and they now find themselves right back where they started, with Zach one year older and that much closer to the end of the line.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 25, 2025, 05:48:08 PMI don't believe for a second they spent any time evaluating QB skills last TC, the pecking order was pre-determined before anyone showed up for TC. Once they decided to re-sign Strev despite his iffy injury status it was a given he was coming in as the #2, which might have been a condition his agent insisted upon in his contract negotiations. 

Many argued at the time this was a mistake as Strev has never shown the ability needed to progress beyond the "Go Go Gadget" QB he's always been. The ample playing time he received in 2025 proved his detractors right.  Valuable game time that could have been used to evaluate the future of the QB position was wasted on a temporary fix and they now find themselves right back were they started, with Zach one year older and that much closer to the end of the line.

They were coming off a Grey Cup appearance, and expected to be back in it. They had a veteran team, and were focused on winning "now" in a year the Grey Cup was in Winnipeg. Evaluating developmental QBs like Artopoeus for a few years down the road was not their priority I would guess. I was never wild about bringing Strev back as the #2, but the question is what would you have done differently? I can't recall all the QBs who were available in free agency last off season, but Maier signed for a lot of money, and signing him would have hamstrung as at other areas in the roster. Strev came relatively cheap. Probably an emotional attachment to him also on the part of the bombers, which is not ideal if your goal is to win but still understandable.

Nobody can say with certainty what Wilson is.  He has the tools and doesn't have enough reps for us to evaluate his play.  I was pretty high on him but scaled back my expectations this year when he didn't get reps and threw ducks in practice.  I would prefer we roll the dice on a prospect rather than bringing in a mediocre option.  It's a hard decision, do we groom the next QB slowly to possibly hit a home run or is an average guy with experience a better bridge for us?

I would like a mobile guy with a cannon.  Wilson is that but so few can read a D and avoid turnovers.  A tough spot for us and no easy answers.

It looks like we will bring in a few guys and hope one pops!

There really aren't a lot of people who can play quarterback...

It has to be the toughest position in team sports.

Even the NFL has quite a few teams struggling to find a good quarterback. Vikings today their qb had about ten yards passing. Total.

I guess it's trite to say this but....

It's a bit hard to criticize the Bombers for not yet finding someone to take over after Zach retires. And they found Brown, who showed promise.

And We were very lucky to get Zach. Fix the o line... and with Condell.... Things will be good.

Quote from: bunker on December 25, 2025, 08:41:26 PMThey were coming off a Grey Cup appearance, and expected to be back in it. They had a veteran team, and were focused on winning "now" in a year the Grey Cup was in Winnipeg. Evaluating developmental QBs like Artopoeus for a few years down the road was not their priority I would guess. I was never wild about bringing Strev back as the #2, but the question is what would you have done differently? I can't recall all the QBs who were available in free agency last off season, but Maier signed for a lot of money, and signing him would have hamstrung as at other areas in the roster. Strev came relatively cheap. Probably an emotional attachment to him also on the part of the bombers, which is not ideal if your goal is to win but still understandable.

I really didn't expect them to make an appearance in the GC in Wpg. last season based on the minimal changes made to the roster prior to the season.  The previous 2 seasons showed they were no longer the league's best team, and yet they did little to counteract the the rise of superior teams in the East Division. They did not comprehended the significance of standing pat and last season the West finally caught up with them and shoved them down into 4th place.  So IMO the writing was already on the wall and they should have invested more time exploring multiple QB options until they found something that showed promise.  Don't know how this coming season will go, but have little faith Zach is going to regain his outstanding form of yesteryear, so they might as well explore their QB options thoroughly if they're struggling to win games again.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 26, 2025, 01:10:22 AMThe previous 2 seasons showed they were no longer the league's best team, and yet they did little to counteract the the rise of superior teams in the East Division. They did not comprehended the significance of standing pat and last season the West finally caught up with them and shoved them down into 4th place.

Ya, '24 was the year of the East.  And ya, '25 saw the rise of the West.  The latter is far more disturbing in its impact on us.  All 3 W teams that beat us are legit now.  The W is going back to the way it was before '19.

Life in '26 is going to be tough.

Quote from: Blueforlife on December 25, 2025, 08:58:05 PMNobody can say with certainty what Wilson is.  He has the tools and doesn't have enough reps for us to evaluate his play.  I was pretty high on him but scaled back my expectations this year when he didn't get reps and threw ducks in practice.  I would prefer we roll the dice on a prospect rather than bringing in a mediocre option.  It's a hard decision, do we groom the next QB slowly to possibly hit a home run or is an average guy with experience a better bridge for us?

I would like a mobile guy with a cannon.  Wilson is that but so few can read a D and avoid turnovers.  A tough spot for us and no easy answers.

It looks like we will bring in a few guys and hope one pops!

QB's often have a very long development curve. Some look better in practice than in live game situations. Regardless, it's true we don't know much until we see them in game action with the game on the line.

The coaches will have a fuller assessment on Wilson than we do. That's more than just success in any practice sessions. How cerebral is a candidate and how quickly does he learn for example. Having some athleticism and arm strength are valuable assets but it takes more than that to succeed.

Wilson has a small advantage at the moment after being with the team for 2 seasons. At worst he might be pencilled in as the SY QB. At best he may be the best option as our # 2 QB going into TC.

Neither of those are giant steps forward and that's what we need for a 3rd year candidate.

I'm sure we'll look at additional QB's and have at least 1 more in TC. How this shakes out, I have no idea. The best I can come up with is that Wilson needs to show he's improving and may have a CFL future.

Some have high hopes for Perkins ( including me ) but we think that for most QB's when they get signed.

Quote from: Blue In BC on December 26, 2025, 02:28:30 PMQB's often have a very long development curve.

Do they though?

Of the very best QBs that I've seen over the past 20+ years watching the CFL, they usually look pretty good as soon as they get an opportunity.

Quote from: Jesse on December 26, 2025, 03:21:57 PMDo they though?

Of the very best QBs that I've seen over the past 20+ years watching the CFL, they usually look pretty good as soon as they get an opportunity.

Generally yes. Calvillo, McManus and even Flutie did not have immediate success. We could argue that Harris and Fajardo are more recent examples of taking longer.

Some like Calvillo started immediately as a necessity in an expansion team ( in failed US expansion ). He then went to the TiCats and was eventually released before finding success in Montreal behind D. Allen.

McManus showed some talent before leaving Winnipeg before leaving for BC. I'd argue he didn't become a better than average QB until leaving for Edmonton. Real success came in Hamilton. In his 6th and last season in BC he had 19 TD's against 26 ints and 4655 yards. By the end of his 6th CFL season he was something like 55 TD's against 66 int's. That sounds like a long learning curve.

Success is based on having a good team around a QB to have a fighting chance of " looking good " at the start of his career. BLM had that during his time in Calgary.

There is a longer list of failures than successes at the QB league wide.


Pick a CFL team and google the QB's that have come and gone.

Who were the last Bomber QB's they found and developed to have success? Google past Bomber QB's over the last 20 years. The best were recycled from other teams

Seriously, the list of immediate success is a very short list IMO.

Quote from: Jesse on December 26, 2025, 03:21:57 PMDo they though?

Of the very best QBs that I've seen over the past 20+ years watching the CFL, they usually look pretty good as soon as they get an opportunity.

Vernon Adams, showed some early spark but took forever to develop, his early career was a merry-go-round of teams discarding him, at one point Sask traded him to the Ti-Cats where he competed as a WR before being cut early in the season and returned to the Als where he started all over again following Jonhny Manziel.

Darian Durant was not the quickest learner either, he spent 3 full seasons as a backup before getting his chance to be the starter in 2009.

Times have changed but 20 years ago it was not unusual for QB's to develop 3-4 years before taking over.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 26, 2025, 05:00:19 PMVernon Adams, showed some early spark but took forever to develop, his early career was a merry-go-round of teams discarding him, at one point Sask traded him to the Ti-Cats where he competed as a WR before being cut early in the season returning to the Als where he started all over again following Jonhny Manziel.

Darian Durant was not the quickest learner either, he spent 3 full seasons as a backup before getting his chance to be the starter in 2009.

20 years ago it was not unusual for QB's to develop 3-4 years before taking over.

Rourke looked good as soon as he got his opportunity.

Vernon Adams took forever to find a home, but he had early success in his rookie season.

Trevor Harris didn't start until his 4th year, so good example of developing a guy, but looked competant when he stepped on the field in relief in each of his first three years. He never came on and looked like...Wilson.

Collaros was excellent right away. Created a bidding war the moment his initial 2 year deal with Toronto expired.

Bo Levi was excellent right away.

Dru Brown was excellent in relief in his 2nd and 3rd seasons when he was called on.

Chad Kelly was what he was right away.

Davis Alexander didn't take meanigful reps until his 3rd season. But again, when he did get on ther field in his rookie and sophomore years, he looked like he belonged.

-------------------------------------

Just looking around the league right now. The starters looked like good prospects as soon as they got their opportunities. They didn't look awful for a couple years and then a light turned on. Calvillio, McManus, Durant, all the examples I'm seeing you guys bring up, all had some success on the field as soon as they stepped on it. They looked like good prospects that may have needed to switch teams before getting starting opportunities.

Guys like Wilson, who can't earn the right to get on the field and don't look good when they do after a couple of years...I can't think of any examples of guys like that suddenly becoming good.

It might be that there are players that have come and gone that would be good if they had a better chance, and better coaching.

Several examples right now in the NFL of qb that did poorly for years, but kept
Getting chances... and succeeded.

Maybe if our guys weren't expected to be good right away, and if they had a bit better coaching, we'd have more decent quarterbacks.

Rourke looked legit from his first snap, same with Davis Alexander. They had no problem reading defenses and executing plays. Guys who have it have it

Quote from: Jesse on December 26, 2025, 03:21:57 PMOf the very best QBs that I've seen over the past 20+ years watching the CFL, they usually look pretty good as soon as they get an opportunity.

Ya, maybe it's not really "how long they sat holding the clipboard?", maybe it's more "when they first stepped on the field in reg season, did they suck?".

I didn't even know there were guys named Rourke, Kelly, or Alexander on a roster in the CFL until the moment they stepped on the field (usually in injury relief).  Then they all lit it up.  Same for Dru Brown -- the lighting it up part, not the "didn't know" part, but that's only because I'm a WPG fan.

The Cody & T.Harris examples are probably the best Calvillo-like counter-examples.  But those examples are getting real stale (like a decade ago stale).  There's really no current new guy starting who didn't light it up and have instant success.

You just gotta have that "it" factor immediately.  Wilson has had a few (big!) opportunities to light it up.  He's been mediocre (but not crap) every time.

Quote from: Tecno on December 27, 2025, 08:44:23 AMYa, maybe it's not really "how long they sat holding the clipboard?", maybe it's more "when they first stepped on the field in reg season, did they suck?".

I didn't even know there were guys named Rourke, Kelly, or Alexander on a roster in the CFL until the moment they stepped on the field (usually in injury relief).  Then they all lit it up.  Same for Dru Brown -- the lighting it up part, not the "didn't know" part, but that's only because I'm a WPG fan.

The Cody & T.Harris examples are probably the best Calvillo-like counter-examples.  But those examples are getting real stale (like a decade ago stale).  There's really no current new guy starting who didn't light it up and have instant success.

You just gotta have that "it" factor immediately.  Wilson has had a few (big!) opportunities to light it up.  He's been mediocre (but not crap) every time.

This is what I'm saying.

Quote from: dd on December 27, 2025, 02:44:59 AMRourke looked legit from his first snap, same with Davis Alexander. They had no problem reading defenses and executing plays. Guys who have it have

That happens but is exceedingly rare.  Those are two generational talents imo.  BO was the last one before that who was awesome early.  Some need to be seasoned.  BO needed seasoning mid career.

Quote from: Tecno on December 27, 2025, 08:44:23 AMYa, maybe it's not really "how long they sat holding the clipboard?", maybe it's more "when they first stepped on the field in reg season, did they suck?".

I didn't even know there were guys named Rourke, Kelly, or Alexander on a roster in the CFL until the moment they stepped on the field (usually in injury relief).  Then they all lit it up.  Same for Dru Brown -- the lighting it up part, not the "didn't know" part, but that's only because I'm a WPG fan.

The Cody & T.Harris examples are probably the best Calvillo-like counter-examples.  But those examples are getting real stale (like a decade ago stale).  There's really no current new guy starting who didn't light it up and have instant success.

You just gotta have that "it" factor immediately.  Wilson has had a few (big!) opportunities to light it up.  He's been mediocre (but not crap) every time.

You're using this phrase pretty loosely, in the case of BLM as with most other QB's there is mucho homework invested to achieve instant success. His first year in the league he ran SY behind Drew Tate and Kevin Glenn, it wasn't till half way through his second season that injury to Glenn and Tate pushed him into the role of starter.  From that point forward you could say he achieved instant success, even though earlier game action confirmed he had the right set of tools to be a good CFL QB.  Not dissimilar to Dru Brown or Alexander's path to "instant success" in their 2nd or 3rd season.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 27, 2025, 05:00:37 PMYou're using this phrase pretty loosely, in the case of BLM as with most other QB's there is mucho homework invested to achieve instant success. His first year in the league he ran SY behind Drew Tate and Kevin Glenn, it wasn't till half way through his second season that injury to Glenn and Tate pushed him into the role of starter.  From that point forward you could say he achieved instant success, even though earlier game action confirmed he had the right set of tools to be a good CFL QB.  Not dissimilar to Dru Brown or Alexander's path to "instant success" in their 2nd or 3rd season.

The point is, when they did hit the field, it looked time time worth the investment. They ran the offence, didn't simply take the short dump off passes, and showed signs of being a capable starter - even if they weren't quite there yet.

Other QBs come on, get that deer in a headlights look, and never lose it.

Quote from: Jesse on December 27, 2025, 09:13:35 PMThe point is, when they did hit the field, it looked time time worth the investment. They ran the offence, didn't simply take the short dump off passes, and showed signs of being a capable starter - even if they weren't quite there yet.

Other QBs come on, get that deer in a headlights look, and never lose it.

If that's the criteria Artopoeus looked pretty sharp in the short time he played in pre-season.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 27, 2025, 11:53:39 PMIf that's the criteria Artopoeus looked pretty sharp in the short time he played in pre-season.

I would say PS and garbage-season don't count.  They have to be thrust into a real game where all the guys and fans are counting on them.  PS is a glorified practice and doesn't impose the same mental stress.

I am surprised that people think coaching is unimportant in quarterback success.

Specially while blaming much of our offensive failure last season on coaching.

Quote from: Jesse on December 27, 2025, 09:13:35 PMThe point is, when they did hit the field, it looked time time worth the investment. They ran the offence, didn't simply take the short dump off passes, and showed signs of being a capable starter - even if they weren't quite there yet.

Other QBs come on, get that deer in a headlights look, and never lose it.

vernon adams did nothing the first 3 years before he became effective. Fajardo much the Same, But if a qb isn't able to to move the offence in the first two years they don't seem to progress talent wise and all of a sudden be able to read defenses. For example Wilson hasn't been able to make things happen.
I would suggest also qbs that rely on their running ability to be effective don't end up being consistent starter material ie Crum, Streveler, Jones

Quote from: Pete on December 28, 2025, 06:42:42 PMvernon adams did nothing the first 3 years before he became effective. Fajardo much the Same, But if a qb isn't able to to move the offence in the first two years they don't seem to progress talent wise and all of a sudden be able to read defenses. For example Wilson hasn't been able to make things happen.
I would suggest also qbs that rely on their running ability to be effective don't end up being consistent starter material ie Crum, Streveler, Jones

Adams absolutely showed flashes in his rookie season. Fajardo was only used as a gadget guy, so it's kinda hard to say in his case, but most examples are guys who looked capable when they hit the field; again, even if they weren't given the opportunity to start.

None of them average 4 yards per attempt because they can only complete dump offs.

Quote from: Pete on December 28, 2025, 06:42:42 PMvernon adams did nothing the first 3 years before he became effective. Fajardo much the Same, But if a qb isn't able to to move the offence in the first two years they don't seem to progress talent wise and all of a sudden be able to read defenses. For example Wilson hasn't been able to make things happen.
I would suggest also qbs that rely on their running ability to be effective don't end up being consistent starter material ie Crum, Streveler, Jones

Not entirely true, Adams played and won games his first season.

"Adams started the final three games of the regular season, throwing four touchdowns and rushing for another while winning all three games"

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 28, 2025, 08:41:27 PMNot entirely true, Adams played and won games his first season.

"Adams started the final three games of the regular season, throwing four touchdowns and rushing for another while winning all three games"

he averaged 179 yards passing in those games with 56% passing not exactly stellar. He was initially considered a backup to such "big" names as Pipkin and Manziel but did go on to be the starter in his 4th year. Hes the prototypical qb that took time to become effective

Quote from: markf on December 28, 2025, 03:32:31 PMI am surprised that people think coaching is unimportant in quarterback success.

Specially while blaming much of our offensive failure last season on coaching.

I'm not sure anyone said QB coaching is unimportant.  The problem is it's a completely hidden world to us.  The QB coach doesn't get pressers.  We don't get to see or hear what they do.  We have no idea if a QB is good (or improves) because of a particular QB coach, or in spite of them.

Half the time fans have no idea who their team's QB coach even is.

I'm sure it matters, but it's not a very splashy or coveted job in the CFL.

Quote from: Tecno on December 29, 2025, 08:59:28 AMI'm not sure anyone said QB coaching is unimportant.  The problem is it's a completely hidden world to us.  The QB coach doesn't get pressers.  We don't get to see or hear what they do.  We have no idea if a QB is good (or improves) because of a particular QB coach, or in spite of them.

Half the time fans have no idea who their team's QB coach even is.

I'm sure it matters, but it's not a very splashy or coveted job in the CFL.

With Tommy Condell in house and Hogan returning Jackson may not be renewed, along with Dan Bolduc and Darrell Patterson they likely become the coaching salary cuts.  While Billy Jean continues to dance on the floor in the round as the receiver's coach...or maybe not....hee-hee-hee, hoo.

Quote from: Tecno on December 29, 2025, 08:59:28 AMI'm not sure anyone said QB coaching is unimportant.

I'm sure it matters, but it's not a very splashy or coveted job in the CFL.

Yes they effectively are saying that.

People are posting that If your not good immediately you are a waste of which time means coaching can't help. There are lots of examples that show otherwise.

Bo Levi on Milanovitch, for example.

" That set the stage for one of the best stretches of Mitchell's career.

"I think he thought maybe I'd been too far in my career and was a lost cause as far as being able to teach an old dog new tricks, but I just put my head down and tried to attack the game as if I was a brand new quarterback learning from him," the Katy, Tex. native recalled.

"Just accept the fact of who this guy is and how much knowledge he has in this game. He's got a PhD in this game and multiple times. Our relationship is awesome. I can tell it's growing," he said. "It's been one that's been growing, blossoming, but just all the respect for him."

3 down

 NFL has a few very good examples right now. Sam Darnold for instance. Third pick in the draft, then... A complete washout, now playing for first place. Thanks to coach Kevin OConnell.

Direct link to the Bombers... Tom Clements NFL q.b. Coach with the Packers.

Quote from: markf on December 29, 2025, 07:39:42 PMYes they effectively are saying that.

People are posting that If your not good immediately you are a waste of which time means coaching can't help. There are lots of examples that show otherwise.

Bo Levi on Milanovitch, for example.

" That set the stage for one of the best stretches of Mitchell's career.

"I think he thought maybe I'd been too far in my career and was a lost cause as far as being able to teach an old dog new tricks, but I just put my head down and tried to attack the game as if I was a brand new quarterback learning from him," the Katy, Tex. native recalled.

"Just accept the fact of who this guy is and how much knowledge he has in this game. He's got a PhD in this game and multiple times. Our relationship is awesome. I can tell it's growing," he said. "It's been one that's been growing, blossoming, but just all the respect for him."

3 down

 NFL has a few very good examples right now. Sam Darnold for instance. Third pick in the draft, then... A complete washout, now playing for first place. Thanks to coach Kevin OConnell.

Direct link to the Bombers... Tom Clements NFL q.b. Coach with the Packers.

Sure, good coaches create good offenses that allow players to succeed at what they do best (Dinwiddie with Arbuckle this season).

But QBs come in with 15 years of development before they even hear of the CFL, some from programs with much better coaching than the CFL has to offer.

Having Scott Milanovich doesn't turn Wilson into a good prospect all of a sudden.

Quote from: Jesse on December 29, 2025, 11:07:44 PMSure, good coaches create good offenses that allow players to succeed at what they do best (Dinwiddie with Arbuckle this season).

But QBs come in with 15 years of development before they even hear of the CFL, some from programs with much better coaching than the CFL has to offer.

Having Scott Milanovich doesn't turn Wilson into a good prospect all of a sudden.

Also the CFL has different things for QB's to learn. 12 men, motion, bigger field and faster time between plays. Most QB's are not coming from Canadian programs.

Quote from: markf on December 29, 2025, 07:39:42 PMBo Levi on Milanovitch, for example.

But Scott might be a unique case in that he's the QB Whisperer and HC.  I'm not sure some dude coming in, and (usually) only staying 1-3 seasons then leaving, is going to really help Zach find his second wind or Wilson become Mahomes.

I guess it is possible.  But not likely, especially if the QB coach is a low-pay position and the dudes may be younger than the vet QB they are coaching!

Quote from: Tecno on December 30, 2025, 10:29:42 AMBut Scott might be a unique case in that he's the QB Whisperer and HC.  I'm not sure some dude coming in, and (usually) only staying 1-3 seasons then leaving, is going to really help Zach find his second wind or Wilson become Mahomes.

I guess it is possible.  But not likely, especially if the QB coach is a low-pay position and the dudes may be younger than the vet QB they are coaching!

Not to be forgotten is the improvement BLM has shown in his throwing ability post recovery, as he was a pretty good QB before shoulder injuries took their toll. If not for what was thought to be a permanent injury, I believe he'd still be a Stamp.

Zach starting the new year off in style by cashing in a $100k signing bonus.

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

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 30, 2025, 04:59:22 PMNot to be forgotten is the improvement BLM has shown in his throwing ability post recovery, as he was a pretty good QB before shoulder injuries took their toll. If not for what was thought to be a permanent injury, I believe he'd still be a Stamp.

Ya, I think his physiotherapist had more to do with his improvement than his coach

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 01, 2026, 08:11:01 PMZach starting the new year off in style by cashing in a $100k signing bonus.

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

With another 100k on the 15th. Strange bonus structure.

Quote from: Jesse on January 01, 2026, 10:43:21 PMWith another 100k on the 15th. Strange bonus structure.

(https://img.joomcdn.net/5a9c8b5b54023d99868dd01a1cb88d05c68249f3_original.jpeg)

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 01, 2026, 08:11:01 PMZach starting the new year off in style by cashing in a $100k signing bonus.

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

The wording is a bit strange. Maybe he got the 1st $100K from the 2025 excess SMS if there was some. I don't know why they'd have 2 bonus amounts 2 weeks apart.

On each side of the year. Likely for sms purposes where it would be easy to move them around if there was room or they had to push it entirely to 2026? Just a guess but probably. He may have also wanted it that way for his own tax year reasons.

Seems like it's all coming in 2026.

Derek Taylor has pointed out that the Birmingham Stallions (UFL) list Taylor Elgersma as part of their QB room for the 2026 season.

DT followed up with Kyle Walters who says that nothing has changed. Elgersma is still pursing an NFL opportunity before making any further decisions.

Ed Tait says that Elgersma was drafted by Birmingham today but that doesn't equate to being signed.

https://x.com/i/status/2010839914552721514 (https://x.com/i/status/2010839914552721514)

Ed also touches on it midway through this article
https://www.bluebombers.com/2026/01/12/notes-from-oshea-walters-and-the-cfl-winter-meetings/ (https://www.bluebombers.com/2026/01/12/notes-from-oshea-walters-and-the-cfl-winter-meetings/)

Sounds like Elgersma has signed with Birmingham (UFL). It also sounds like he has 2 agents, 1 in Canada & 1 in the US.

https://x.com/i/status/2011292733017899521 (https://x.com/i/status/2011292733017899521)

Quote from: Stats Junkie on January 14, 2026, 07:10:13 AMSounds like Elgersma has signed with Birmingham (UFL). It also sounds like he has 2 agents, 1 in Canada & 1 in the US.

https://x.com/i/status/2011292733017899521 (https://x.com/i/status/2011292733017899521)

Weird that you'd have two agents. Weirder that one of them would have no idea what you're doing.

It actually makes more sense in some ways for him, since he'll make as much or more money there, and his season will be over in time for NFL training camps. I'm not sure he'd be making much of a contribution to the bombers at this point anyway, given his stage of development.

There's still a chance that he could join our practice roster after that season is over.
Regular season: March 27 – May 31
Playoffs: June 7 – 13
He's the youngest QB on their roster, so there is no guarantee that he actually gets to play. I hope he does!

Quote from: bunker on January 14, 2026, 02:41:53 PMIt actually makes more sense in some ways for him, since he'll make as much or more money there, and his season will be over in time for NFL training camps. I'm not sure he'd be making much of a contribution to the bombers at this point anyway, given his stage of development.

This story obviously requires some investigation and clarification, Walters commented a few days ago that he is in touch with Elgersma's agent and nothing has changed, he still intends to explore his NFL opportunties fully.

He was drafted by Birmingham, but not sure he actually signed with them.

Not the worst thing that can happen, not like he's getting the start out of camp.

Not sure we honour UFL contracts, or when they terminate, if they are a year, or if they terminate after their "super bowel"

Quote from: theaardvark on January 14, 2026, 04:40:26 PMHe was drafted by Birmingham, but not sure he actually signed with them.

Not the worst thing that can happen, not like he's getting the start out of camp.

Not sure we honour UFL contracts, or when they terminate, if they are a year, or if they terminate after their "super bowel"

Super Bowel. lol

Signing with a USF1 team te11s me he has very 1itt1e/no NF1 interest but wants to keep 'active' south of the border and he hopes to get NF1 interests via the back door. I think it's a waste of time, but whatever, I don't see him making an impact here and fans are p1acing way too much hope on him if they honest1y think he's going to be our #2, hes not

Quote from: dd on January 14, 2026, 05:45:19 PMSigning with a USF1 team te11s me he has very 1itt1e/no NF1

You been hanging out with DM83?   ;D  ;D  ;D

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 14, 2026, 04:28:48 PMThis story obviously requires some investigation and clarification, Walters commented a few days ago that he is in touch with Elgersma's agent and nothing has changed, he still intends to explore his NFL opportunties fully.

I mean, did you click the link that stats junkie provided? His Canadian based agent told Walters that, but he also has an American based agent who handled the UFL deal.

Quote from: theaardvark on January 14, 2026, 04:40:26 PMHe was drafted by Birmingham, but not sure he actually signed with them.

Not the worst thing that can happen, not like he's getting the start out of camp.

Not sure we honour UFL contracts, or when they terminate, if they are a year, or if they terminate after their "super bowel"

The head coach of Birmingham says he's ready to go, so it seems like he's signed or is about to.

I think the UFL is fine for Elgersma. You don't really want a QB to bolt to the NFL if he were to sign here now and so it's better if he walks the path for now.

He'll get access to some half decent coaching (which is not something he's really ever had outside of the NFL pre-season) and that should solidify things for him.

He's either going to light up the UFL and get a real NFL chance or he'll wash out.

Either development is good news in terms of QB clarity going forward. The quicker both parties find out the better.

yeah the ufl season goes from may to June 13th, so it gives him a chance to show his stuff. If he had signed with us the chances of him getting much regular season action would have been slim to none so very little chance to improve his stock with the nfl.
Im not sure how long hes locked into ufl ie is he available to sigh with us after the ufl season or is he locked in for longer?
 

Quote from: Pete on January 15, 2026, 05:49:05 PMyeah the ufl season goes from may to June 13th, so it gives him a chance to show his stuff. If he had signed with us the chances of him getting much regular season action would have been slim to none so very little chance to improve his stock with the nfl.
Im not sure how long hes locked into ufl ie is he available to sigh with us after the ufl season or is he locked in for longer?
 

UFL seems to roll with 1 year contracts and roster shuffle each off season. He may not get any game time there either unless there are injuries, but at least he's getting a pay check and still available to either league before TC.

Does the CFL have a reciprocal agreement with UFL?  Do we even need to worry about signing guys under contract with the spring league?

Do they have an NFL window?  That a player can twist for the CFL?

Are the UFL deals now not just flat rates?  With zero gate, is there budget to pay a player more?

Collaros should last another year or two.. enough time to help mentor a successor.

Quote from: BLUEBOMBER on January 16, 2026, 07:50:35 AMCollaros should last another year or two.. enough time to help mentor a successor.

Disagree, plenty of evidence Zach was a big part of the reason they came up short last season, 6th best team out of 9 isn't good enough.  He's now grading on a pass or fail basis and a discounted contract isn't going to buy him a few more years in Blue. They can't ignore "the next QB" discovery and development like they did last year, past time to move on IMO.

UFL has a better chance of getting him NFL looks, let him learn and maybe even get some reps and if it doesn't work out then he will be here eventually.

Quote from: kkc60 on January 16, 2026, 04:30:23 PMUFL has a better chance of getting him NFL looks, let him learn and maybe even get some reps and if it doesn't work out then he will be here eventually.

Timing is everything, if Elgersma shows up at the wrong time the Bombers starting QB job may no longer be available. He should take notice of the advantage Rourke's ratio status provided him in opportunity and salary, he only spent one season as a backup, which is well below normal.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 16, 2026, 04:38:04 PMTiming is everything, if Elgersma shows up at the wrong time the Bombers starting QB job may no longer be available. He should take notice of the advantage Rourke's ratio status provided him in opportunity and salary, he only spent one season as a backup, which is well below normal.

He doesn't care. It's about trying to crack an NFL roster right now.

There's never enough QBs in the CFL, if he's good enough, he'll play. It doesn't matter if we've found one or not.

Quote from: Jesse on January 16, 2026, 04:50:56 PMHe doesn't care. It's about trying to crack an NFL roster right now.

There's never enough QBs in the CFL, if he's good enough, he'll play. It doesn't matter if we've found one or not.

True I guess, Ryan Rigmaiden discussed in his recent interview how much more difficult it is to sign US college QB's now that they're receiving Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) money, motivation and hardship have been removed from the equation. 

Elgersma must be kicking himself for not attending a US College, and I imagine that money is going to help drain the pool of a lot of promising CDN football talent in USports.

https://3downnation.com/2026/01/25/canadian-qb-taylor-elgersma-opens-up-about-green-bay-packers-release-nfl-workout-tour/

Still determined to get into the NFL.

He's on his 1ast 1egs for opportunities down south, and shou1d be done with Birmingham this June, so he'11
 come to us too 1ate to do anything this year. Its frustrating but you have to 1et it runs its course.

Quote from: dd on January 25, 2026, 06:08:30 PMHe's on his 1ast 1egs for opportunities down south, and shou1d be done with Birmingham this June, so he'11
 come to us too 1ate to do anything this year. Its frustrating but you have to 1et it runs its course.

He'd be available just after our TC starts. It's not like he'd be ready to be either a # 1 or # 2 QB even if he was here day 1.

He may ever see the field in the UFL, but he'll earn some money.

Quote from: Blue In BC on January 25, 2026, 06:18:46 PMHe'd be available just after our TC starts. It's not like he'd be ready to be either a # 1 or # 2 QB even if he was here day 1.

He may ever see the field in the UFL, but he'll earn some money.

Bet he's never set foot in Wpg. in his entire life, I don't have a good feeling about this one.  Plan B should assume he doesn't exist.