1 year extension, as per BB facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1422972305842764&set=a.790927029047298
Blue Bombers re-sign DE Jefferson (https://www.bluebombers.com/2026/01/22/blue-bombers-re-sign-defensive-end-willie-jefferson/)
Willie J Will Stay (https://www.bluebombers.com/2026/01/22/willie-j-will-stay/)
He was good enough last year ( lots of knock downs again) but needs a pass rushing buddy or 2!
Blue Bombers re-sign defensive end Willie Jefferson
WINNIPEG, MB., January 22, 2026 – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has agreed to terms on a one year contract extension with veteran defensive end Willie Jefferson.
Jefferson was scheduled to become a free agent in February.
Jefferson (6-7, 244; Stephen F. Austin State; born: January 31, 1991, in Beaumont, TX.) returns in 2026 for his 12th season in the Canadian Football League and seventh with the Blue Bombers including his days with Edmonton (2014-15) and Saskatchewan (2016-18).
Jefferson appeared in 17 games in 2025 – he was rested in the regular-season finale for the following week's Eastern Semi-Final in Montreal - and registered 15 defensive tackles, three quarterback sacks, one forced fumble and a league-best 16 pass knockdowns.
His 16 knockdowns tied his own franchise record set in 2019 and is the third most in CFL history.
A vocal leader and presence in the locker room, Jefferson has 46 quarterback sacks as a Blue Bomber, ranking him fifth all-time in franchise history.
Jefferson now has 77 career sacks in his CFL career and the second-most knockdowns in league history with 94.
A six-time CFL All Star, Jefferson was named the CFL's Most Outstanding Defensive Player in 2019 – he was also the Blue Bombers Most Outstanding Player that season – and has been named Winnipeg's top defender three times, in 2019, 2022 and 2023.
A three-time Grey Cup champion (Edmonton, 2015; Winnipeg 2019, 2021), Jefferson is also
one of the team's most visible players in the community and has been the recipient of both the Ed Kotowich 'Good Guy Award' (2022) and the Cal Murphy 'Heart of a Legend' Award (2023).
He turns 35 at the end of the month but still has some gas left in the tank. No significant injury history and is a athletic individual.
What we need is improvement elsewhere on the DL and depth to let him continue to be successful.
I wonder what the SMS hit will be for 2026. Can't imagine that it changes much one way or the other.
He and Vaughters are only ones really worth re signing from 2025 line
Quote from: dd on January 22, 2026, 03:57:29 PMHe a Vaughters are only ones really worth re signing from 2025 line
I think I'm expecting Vaughters to be re-signed but they could just as easily try to find a new player in free agency.
We don't have any import DT's that carry over from 2025 off the PR. So Woods is the only one we have on the roster. While I think we bring him back to TC I don't see his spot as guaranteed either.
The players on the 4 man front weren't good enough as a group, so in that sense something has to give. We do have the 2 rookie DE types that played the last game but nobody with any experience as far as real depth.
I only see 2 other DL besides those 2 rookies from 2025. Not sure whether any of them are best fit as inside DT types. OTOH we often go with lighter and faster DE's in 3 or even 4 man fronts. Whether that is the best option is debatable.
I'd like to see a couple of bigger inside DT's signed for TC.
The D-line FA list has some impactful players coming up for bidding, fair to say the Bombers have a good chance of landing at least one. Also a fair number of stars from yesteryear trying to hang on to their football careers, Lorenzo Mauldin went from hero to zero in the span of 3 years.
(https://i.postimg.cc/RFZXgywn/Screenshot-2026-01-21-083739.png)
Quote from: Blue In BC on January 22, 2026, 04:12:06 PMI think I'm expecting Vaughters to be re-signed but they could just as easily try to find a new player in free agency.
We don't have any import DT's that carry over from 2025 off the PR. So Woods is the only one we have on the roster. While I think we bring him back to TC I don't see his spot as guaranteed either.
The players on the 4 man front weren't good enough as a group, so in that sense something has to give. We do have the 2 rookie DE types that played the last game but nobody with any experience as far as real depth.
I only see 2 other DL besides those 2 rookies from 2025. Not sure whether any of them are best fit as inside DT types. OTOH we often go with lighter and faster DE's in 3 or even 4 man fronts. Whether that is the best option is debatable.
I'd like to see a couple of bigger inside DT's signed for TC.
Vaughters may not want to re-sign. We don't exactly put our DE's in a position to put up numbers.
Quote from: Jesse on January 22, 2026, 05:14:24 PMVaughters may not want to re-sign. We don't exactly put our DE's in a position to put up numbers.
That's my concern as well. The D-line still needs to beef up the interior in order for the unit as a whole to be more successful, IMO.
Maybe Jefferson re-signing could help with getting Vaughters back for another season...?
Quote from: Jesse on January 22, 2026, 05:14:24 PMVaughters may not want to re-sign. We don't exactly put our DE's in a position to put up numbers.
The dline has been identified by many here , and rightly so, as an area of weakness ly, re-signing the same old crew isn't going to help that. In order to sign an impact dl (maybe ceresna?) I am more than fine with going with a starter rookie de such as Jenkins and Jaworski. Vaughters will be 33 this season. We could go with either Jefferson or Vaughters but not both.
A great signing and all time great. The criticism I seen last year and in one other thread by a select few has been overstated. He deserves respect even as he reaches retirement. A pleasure to watch and have involved with our club and community. Generational talent.
I want Vaughters back. He is good to great. Those two new guys showed a flash. And area we need to improve on but we have some talent existing to complement with a new face or two. I am willing to wait to develop.
Yeah eh I mean his height helps and he was good...but is it the scheme or simply the fact he's older that's cause for his regression?
Willy had a tough year. Career lows in 15 DTs, and 3 Sacks, but still managed 16 PKDs. I am like this signing but Willy needs a bounce back season.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on January 22, 2026, 05:17:21 PMThat's my concern as well. The D-line still needs to beef up the interior in order for the unit as a whole to be more successful, IMO.
Maybe Jefferson re-signing could help with getting Vaughters back for another season...?
Speaking of beef, look at the size difference Willie has to deal with every play...and sometimes there are 2 large bodies in his way.
(https://static.cfl.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/Willie-Jefferson-5-22847-Large.jpg)
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 22, 2026, 06:45:11 PMSpeaking of beef, look at the size difference Willie has to deal with every play...and sometimes there are 2 large bodies in his way.
(https://static.cfl.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/Willie-Jefferson-5-22847-Large.jpg)
You mean the same matchup in all football? A larger but shifty end vs a tackle, the heaviest position in football?
Any reports of $$? I'm all for this signing but not at a premium salary. He should be there for leadership, as a team ambassador, and in for situations, but otherwise should be rotated and grandfathered out of a primary role. Love the guy and happy he's staying here but we need to use him correctly and pay him accordingly.
He has been rotating for years already. He is still good enough to take a lot of reps. He has evolved the way he impacts a game which is still can be significant, just not as often. Agree on leadership, mentor role but don't count him out yet. Still a little gas in the tank. Needs assistance for others. Would help him get more sacks but I am fine with that by committee.
Quote from: Pete on January 22, 2026, 05:51:21 PMThe dline has been identified by many here , and rightly so, as an area of weakness ly, re-signing the same old crew isn't going to help that. In order to sign an impact dl (maybe ceresna?) I am more than fine with going with a starter rookie de such as Jenkins and Jaworski. Vaughters will be 33 this season. We could go with either Jefferson or Vaughters but not both.
I've said before we should make a hard run at Ceresna.
Willy was one of the guys I hoped we'd move on from. He used to get 3 sacks a game, he's down to 3 sacks a season.
For fans like us, this is why salary disclosure would be good.
This move is somewhere been horrible and possibly passable depending on percentage of sms.
Definitely don't love it though.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on January 22, 2026, 08:04:27 PMFor fans like us, this is why salary disclosure would be good.
This move is somewhere been horrible and possibly passable depending on percentage of sms.
Definitely don't love it though.
We will find out from 3DownNation soon enough if he is one of the top 10 paid Dlinemen in the league.
If he is not listed at least we will know what the maximum he will be making.
Works for me.
It's a mistake to think Willie can't play based on sack totals. It is the Younger defense keeping sacks low across the board. We need to rush a linebacker or DB on a more regular basis. As it is QB's have all day against our predictable 3 man rush. I see that we have been signing larger DB's this off season so maybe there is a willingness to change. I sure hope so.
Quote from: TBURGESS on January 22, 2026, 07:53:31 PMWilly was one of the guys I hoped we'd move on from. He used to get 3 sacks a game, he's down to 3 sacks a season.
Me too. He is simply not an every down guy anymore. He was walking and not engaged way too often last year.
You don't improve your DL by deleting an all time great. He will be good this year but don't expect the huge sack #s. More than one way to impact a game. I believe a year or two ago was near the top in distruptions, I remember the stat from TSN.
You don't improve anything by retaining guys well past their prime.
Quote from: TBURGESS on January 22, 2026, 11:09:15 PMYou don't improve anything by retaining guys well past their prime.
There are some players who are better past their prime than other players ever will be.
There is a large difference between past their prime, and past their best before date...
Quote from: gobombersgo on January 22, 2026, 08:42:49 PMWe will find out from 3DownNation soon enough if he is one of the top 10 paid Dlinemen in the league.
If he is not listed at least we will know what the maximum he will be making.
Works for me.
the reason we may have signed him even at a similar cap hit to ly is that there may well not be any viable alternatives in free agency, really the main guys left are Carney and Ceresna even if they are still available you have to know it will be a bidding war which we are not likely to participate in. The possibility to replace him with a rookie is also a long shot as weve benn unable to even replace Jeffcoat adequately since he left.
It may have also come down to who they thought would be more valuable to the team Jefferson or Vaughters.
(does anyone know if Ceresna is even gonna be healthy by training camp?)
Quote from: TBURGESS on January 22, 2026, 11:09:15 PMYou don't improve anything by retaining guys well past their prime.
Veteran players at the tail end of their career are massive assets for any team. They are consistent, reliable and can still preform. I rarely agree with your take and don't here. Willie will continue to provide big plays, disruptions and significant leadership. Willie in him prime was a game changer. He still has the ability to help us win imo.
Many been saying the same about our older vet OL who we will benefit from greatly. Not to mention our star QB. Mr. Harris says hi. Denny says hello lol, ok stretching there.
Quote from: Blueforlife on January 23, 2026, 01:36:13 AMVeteran players at the tail end of their career are massive assets for any team. They are consistent, reliable and can still preform. I rarely agree with your take and don't here. Willie will continue to provide big plays, disruptions and significant leadership. Willie in him prime was a game changer. He still has the ability to help us win imo.
Many been saying the same about our older vet OL who we will benefit from greatly. Not to mention our star QB. Mr. Harris says hi. Denny says hello lol, ok stretching there.
Once a year, old vets get their game back for a short time and make everyone remember what they used to be. The rest of the time they get their paychecks based on who they used to be.
Jefferson used to take games over. He was one of my favs, but he's been going downhill for a couple of years now. Hanging on to guys like him are one of the reasons the team has been on the decline for a couple of years now.
Quote from: TBURGESS on January 23, 2026, 02:20:50 AMOnce a year, old vets get their game back for a short time and make everyone remember what they used to be. The rest of the time they get their paychecks based on who they used to be.
Jefferson used to take games over. He was one of my favs, but he's been going downhill for a couple of years now. Hanging on to guys like him are one of the reasons the team has been on the decline for a couple of years now.
Our vets are the reason we have been so good for so long and made it to all those cups. Yes they decline but some can evolve and still impact like Willie. Time will tell how much impact he will have this year. I believe he will earn his salary and help us win more game than he hurts us in.
Quote from: Blueforlife on January 23, 2026, 11:52:32 AMOur vets are the reason we have been so good for so long and made it to all those cups. Yes they decline but some can evolve and still impact like Willie. Time will tell how much impact he will have this year. I believe he will earn his salary and help us win more game than he hurts us in.
You don't know his salary so how could you possibly say he'll earn it?
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on January 23, 2026, 02:19:47 PMYou don't know his salary so how could you possibly say he'll earn it?
Now I have heard it all. He will make about what we expect. The exact number has no impact on my statement.
I believe he always has and will earn 100% of his paycheck this year.
This is based on watching him his entire career and while considering age, stats and impact to the ball games, organization and community. O and he brings a high level of entertainment value!!!
That all said my assumption is that he plays 3/4 of the season+
Come down to Wpg, Willie can still bring it baby
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on January 23, 2026, 02:19:47 PMYou don't know his salary so how could you possibly say he'll earn it?
SMS is a complicated issue. It's not just whether a given player " earns " his contract. It's about whether it means we have to reduce offers to other players across the roster.
Retaining veterans is important but at some point that happens with every player. I think he has another year left in his game and we don't have that many long term Bomber players on defence. It's probable we won't see a few back that haven't yet been re-signed.
Quote from: Blueforlife on January 23, 2026, 02:35:06 PMNow I have heard it all. He will make about what we expect. The exact number has no impact on my statement.
I believe he always has and will earn 100% of his paycheck this year.
This is based on watching him his entire career and while considering age, stats and impact to the ball games, organization and community. O and he brings a high level of entertainment value!!!
That all said my assumption is that he plays 3/4 of the season+
Come down to Wpg, Willie can still bring it baby
You said you are "sure" he will earn his salary. If he's earning $250,000 there's very different on field output that is required than if you make $110,000. I suggest that he'll deliver his off-field/leadership value no matter what we've paid him but his on field contributions are what will make or break the decision to bring him back again.
If you want to simply blow blue smoke around feel free (this is the place to do it), but don't frame it from a salary to productivity point of view unless you want to get called out for that. Especially when no one has any clue what the salary he will "for sure" earn is.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on January 23, 2026, 04:59:19 PMYou said you are "sure" he will earn his salary. If he's earning $250,000 there's very different on field output that is required than if you make $110,000. I suggest that he'll deliver his off-field/leadership value no matter what we've paid him but his on field contributions are what will make or break the decision to bring him back again.
If you want to simply blow blue smoke around feel free (this is the place to do it), but don't frame it from a salary to productivity point of view unless you want to get called out for that. Especially when no one has any clue what the salary he will "for sure" earn is.
Good call. Blue smoke is just another way to say " Blind Faith " that I mentioned earlier in the week. I hope he took a cut this season and possibly a reduced role.
The problem at the moment is we don't know whether we have new faces on the DL that will add to the overall productivity. I'm ok to bring him back but also have some reservations regardless of SMS.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on January 23, 2026, 04:59:19 PMYou said you are "sure" he will earn his salary. If he's earning $250,000 there's very different on field output that is required than if you make $110,000. I suggest that he'll deliver his off-field/leadership value no matter what we've paid him but his on field contributions are what will make or break the decision to bring him back again.
If you want to simply blow blue smoke around feel free (this is the place to do it), but don't frame it from a salary to productivity point of view unless you want to get called out for that. Especially when no one has any clue what the salary he will "for sure" earn is.
I believe he always has and will earn 100% of his paycheck this year. Yes I confident or sure that he will earn his keep like he always has.
You're estimates of his pay a larger range than what's likely. He will be paid what he is worth as a vet DL. Somewhere around 200 is my guess but like I said the actual figure doesn't really factor in that much for me.
It's my opinion that he will earn his salary as it's likely a fairly reasonable figure in line with what other vets would get.
Quote from: Blue In BC on January 23, 2026, 05:31:42 PMGood call. Blue smoke is just another way to say " Blind Faith " that I mentioned earlier in the week. I hope he took a cut this season and possibly a reduced role.
The problem at the moment is we don't know whether we have new faces on the DL that will add to the overall productivity. I'm ok to bring him back but also have some reservations regardless of SMS.
Has nothing to do with blind faith.
I hope we signed him for a fair value for both sides. I hope he isn't taking a reduce role.
There are lots of opinions on Willie, his value, etc. This place is awesome because it allows all to voice their views. I believe we should allow space for that. Mods have encouraged people not be be labeled or their positions generalized and I agree with that.
You both bring great insight to this forum.
Time will tell if he will earn his $. I bet he will. Revist at the end of the year.
Quote from: Blue In BC on January 23, 2026, 05:31:42 PMGood call. Blue smoke is just another way to say " Blind Faith " that I mentioned earlier in the week. I hope he took a cut this season and possibly a reduced role.
The problem at the moment is we don't know whether we have new faces on the DL that will add to the overall productivity. I'm ok to bring him back but also have some reservations regardless of SMS.
Willie's taking a fair bit of guff these days, but he's done what has been asked of him without complaining even though it affects his stats, that's FIFO. Still remember Shawn Lemon refusing to play for Chris Jones in Sask. because he asked him to do more than just pure pass rush. Anyway, below is what Willie was paid last season, 6th highest D-line, which probably didn't change much, as he is still in the top 3 most popular players in Wpg and may actually be #1 with younger fans.
6) Willie Jefferson, Winnipeg Blue Bombers (A)
Hard money: $200,000
Maximum value: $200,000
The six-time All-CFL selection got a $100,000 signing bonus to return for a sixth season in Bomberland and will also earn $77,300 in base salary, $14,700 in housing money, and an $8,000 travel allowance. The 34-year-old needs only three more sacks to reach the top 25 all-time in league history as his career total currently sits at 74.
Quote from: Blueforlife on January 23, 2026, 05:39:10 PMI believe he always has and will earn 100% of his paycheck this year. Yes I confident or sure that he will earn his keep like he always has.
You're estimates of his pay a larger range than what's likely. He will be paid what he is worth as a vet DL. Somewhere around 200 is my guess but like I said the actual figure doesn't really factor in that much for me.
Please don't use terms like blue smoke, that has nothing to do with the discussion. Please focus on talking ball.
It's my opinion that he will earn his salary as it's likely a fairly reasonable figure in line with what other vets would get.
Has nothing to do with blind faith, you calling be out on that wasn't correct then and has no merit here. Please stop using terms like that. Best we talk ball.
I hope we signed him for a fair value for both sides. I hope he isn't taking a reduce role.
It has everything to do with what I said. Look up the definition of Blind Faith.
When you make un-supported comments with out facts, you'll get called out. SB&G made a valid point that can be a discussion item with a reasonable point of view.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 23, 2026, 05:43:53 PMWillie's taking a fair bit of guff these days, but he's done what has been asked of him without complaining even though it effects his stats, that's FIFO. Still remember Shawn Lemon refusing to play for Chris Jones in Sask. because he asked him to do more than just pure pass rush. Anyway, below is what Willie was paid last season, 6th highest D-line, which probably didn't change much, as he is still in the top 3 most popular players in Wpg and may actually be #1 with younger fans.
6) Willie Jefferson, Winnipeg Blue Bombers (A)
Hard money: $200,000
Maximum value: $200,000
The six-time All-CFL selection got a $100,000 signing bonus to return for a sixth season in Bomberland and will also earn $77,300 in base salary, $14,700 in housing money, and an $8,000 travel allowance. The 34-year-old needs only three more sacks to reach the top 25 all-time in league history as his career total currently sits at 74.
We know that but it's a lot for an older player. SMS went up so an equal amount would in effect be less from a % of total SMS.
I'd like to know the number but I'd like to see a DI that takes some of his reps. We need to have a succession plan as well as spell him at times.
Because he has little injury history, the up front money is not an issue and tends to lower the total SMS due to tax savings.
EDIT: And we get another $200K SMS increase for 2026. We may see some of the same issue as in 2025 where top $$$ players have already been extended.
Once again I believe we should just add another couple of players to the AR.
Sounds like the Bombers gave him a low ball offer to being with.
Quote from: Blue In BC on January 23, 2026, 05:45:03 PMIt has everything to do with what I said. Look up the definition of Blind Faith.
When you make un-supported comments with out facts, you'll get called out. SB&G made a valid point that can be a discussion item with a reasonable point of view.
I posted that I thought our D would be good this year, offense average and ST good. You said that was blind faith which it isn't, just my opinion backed by information I have previously shared. I have asked you repeatedly in the past and again for the last time, please stop using that language, it has no merit to the argument. It has nothing to do with blind faith. Just me posting my opinion based on a lot of factors including facts.
I haven't provided any arguments without facts that 100% not true in the kicker thread or this one. I haven't provided any un-supported comments. That is simply your opinion, doesn't mean its valid or shared by everyone.
I have clearly stated my thoughts on Willie and how he will earn his salary and SB&G called me out using similar language that you have which wasn't fair and not needed. I thought he would make around 200 and I remain committed to saying he will earn that $.
I have routinely tried my best to keep the peace with you on here and if you can't do the same please use the forum features to avoid interacting with me. I hope we can simply talk ball and avoid things like this in the future. If not I will be requesting the mods to ask you to stop replying to my content to ensure this behavior stops. Some of our interactions are a distraction to the forum at times and provide little value to other users. You opinions, insights and knowledge about the league and Bombers is well received when we can avoid having me as the topic of discussion.
I don't mind being called out, having debates or being challenged; it's a big part of what this forum is about. It's the manner in which you routinely choose to do it that I don't agree with or appreciate. It's my goal to try to interact with everyone on here as respectful as possible while following the forum rules, not being a distraction or making it hard on the mods. If you can do the same, we can move past this and continue talking ball as I value you as a member most of the time.
I asked you to kindly drop the blind faith retroric on the other thread and then you brought it up here and piled on with SB&G. Simply not necessary. For the last time, let's please drop this, agree to disagree.
Quote from: Pigskin on January 23, 2026, 11:19:51 PMSounds like the Bombers gave him a low ball offer to being with.
Willie said negotiations were a bit more difficult than other years.
He also acknowledges he needs to make more plays in the backfield and and thats something he is working on this off-season.
https://www.winnipegsun.com/sports/winnipeg_blue_bombers/don-t-count-us-out-jefferson-says-he-bombers-not-done/article_63f7b8a5-a620-4758-9b8d-773057e27139.html
Quote from: Blueforlife on January 23, 2026, 11:28:25 PMI posted that I thought our D would be good this year, offense average and ST good. You said that was blind faith which it isn't, just my opinion backed by information I have previously shared. I have asked you repeatedly in the past and again for the last time, please stop using that language, it has no merit to the argument. It has nothing to do with blind faith. Just me posting my opinion based on a lot of factors including facts.
I haven't provided any arguments without facts that 100% not true in the kicker thread or this one. I haven't provided any un-supported comments. That is simply your opinion, doesn't mean its valid or shared by everyone.
I have clearly stated my thoughts on Willie and how he will earn his salary and SB&G called me out using similar language that you have which wasn't fair and not needed. I thought he would make around 200 and I remain committed to saying he will earn that $.
I have routinely tried my best to keep the peace with you on here and if you can't do the same please use the forum features to avoid interacting with me. I hope we can simply talk ball and avoid things like this in the future. If not I will be requesting the mods to ask you to stop replying to my content to ensure this behavior stops. Some of our interactions are a distraction to the forum at times and provide little value to other users. You opinions, insights and knowledge about the league and Bombers is well received when we can avoid having me as the topic of discussion.
I don't mind being called out, having debates or being challenged; it's a big part of what this forum is about. It's the manner in which you routinely choose to do it that I don't agree with or appreciate. It's my goal to try to interact with everyone on here as respectful as possible while following the forum rules, not being a distraction or making it hard on the mods. If you can do the same, we can move past this and continue talking ball as I value you as a member most of the time.
Facts are that we've lost / eliminated 2 starters on defence ( Parker and Thomas ). We have: K. Wilson, Houston, Vaughters and Woods as potential free agents. We may re-sign some or all of those 4 but at the moment it isn't looking that way. Arguments could be made to re-sign or not for each of those players.
If you can determine that with certainty we'll have a good defence I'd like to see your crystal ball. At this point the facts are we have no idea one way or the other.
If you can't take the heat get out of the fire. Nobody is making you respond if you don't like the feedback. Support your arguments better and you'll have less heat.
Many of us posters disagree but at least they make arguments using facts and realities which can be debated.
Quote from: Blue In BC on January 23, 2026, 11:43:45 PMFacts are that we've lost / eliminated 2 starters on defence ( Parker and Thomas ). We have: K. Wilson, Houston, Vaughters and Woods as potential free agents.
If you can determine that with certainty we'll have a good defence I'd like to see your crystal ball. At this point the facts are we have no idea one way or the other.
If you can't take the heat get out of the fire. Nobody is making you respond if you don't like the feedback.
Nothing is certain in life. I simply believe our D will be good based on the players we have, our top coaching staff and FA's we will likely add. It's so early in the process, I think we will also fill holes with the draft, camp surprises and a FA hidden gems. I like to make predictions, don't mind eating crow but don't feed it to me ask I'm cooking it lol.
Parker isn't a big loss. Thomas fairly early to replace and upgrade, his locker room impact and ability to mentor remains as he is a coach. We will likely sign 2 out of the 4 you mention. Wilson and Houston tops on my list. Vaughters I would try to get but at the right price. Woods I like but not a massive loss but I would welcome him back on the cheap.
You and others roasted Thomas but now you worried about replacing him......
This is the type of interaction I prefer, we are talking ball.
Quote from: Blueforlife on January 23, 2026, 11:48:56 PMNothing is certain in life. I simply believe our D will be good based on the players we have, our top coaching staff and FA's we will add.
Parker isn't a big loss. Thomas fairly early to replace and upgrade, his locker room impact and ability to mentor remains as he is a coach. We will likely sign 2 out of the 4 you mention. Wilson and Houston tops on my list. Vaughters I would try to get but at the right price. Woods I like but not a massive loss.
This is the type of interact I prefer, we are talking ball.
Ah, now there is at least something to debate. We have 3 Canadian and 2 import LB's that I think makes K. Wilson a casualty. OTOH he has the most experience and if we lose some others that may be needed.
I wouldn't like to see 2 new CB's particularly if we've shuffling a new deck on the DL. So Houston is needed unless Bonds is healthy for TC and they choose him. Noting he hasn't been re-signed either.
Vaughters, same issue if we don't sign Woods ( I don't think we do ) then potentially 2 of 4 on the front 4 are new. Yes we had a couple of rookies that played the last game, but I don't want to bank on that per se.
We don't yet know which free agents we'll add. Rookies may sit on the PR all year. IDK. We could sign the rookie of the year.
Quote from: Blue In BC on January 23, 2026, 11:56:43 PMAh, now there is at least something to debate. We have 3 Canadian and 2 import LB's that I think makes K. Wilson a casualty. OTOH he has the most experience and if we lose some others that may be needed.
I wouldn't like to see 2 new CB's particularly if we've shuffling a new deck on the DL. So Houston is needed unless Bonds is healthy for TC and they choose him. Noting he hasn't been re-signed either.
Vaughters, same issue if we don't sign Woods ( I don't think we do ) then potentially 2 of 4 on the front 4 are new. Yes we had a couple of rookies that played the last game, but I don't want to bank on that per se.
We don't yet know which free agents we'll add. Rookies may sit on the PR all year. IDK. We could sign the rookie of the year.
You know my preference for vets and how I favor Wilson but you make a good point as our LB depth is strong. We might pass. Saves a buck.
I feel Jefferson can be effective, but the team has to realize that he cant do it on his own, they have to make some serious upgrades to the the dline as a whole, especially at the dt position. Lawson is good but he also needs a strong partner inside, or even to rotate in.
Ly Thomas wasn't good enough, and they didn't seem to have much confidence in Woods so it will be interesting to see what happens
It's never too early to make predictions about the ball club. That's why this place exists. Doesn't mean they are accurate, they are simply opinions that we can debate and reflect on as the season advances and our roster becomes more clear. I believe members of this forum should welcome all voices and posting styles.
Willie will be good most games. D and ST will be good. Offense will struggle as we adjust to changes on the OL. The clubs success will be dependent on the talent we bring in on the DL and OL and how those units can develop and gel. I believe the rest will fall in place. I am worried about our OL (1st 1/4 of season). How the DL will preform is a coin flip. Our LBs and DBs will fine imo (if healthy). Do need a couple signings which I am betting on.
I have been on here for over a decade and have offered my subtantive views on this club good, bad and ugly. Not everyone will always get along on here or agree with everyone's opinions and that ok. It's important that we do our best to focus on talking ball imo and not about each other. If needed the ignore function can be a good tool but I haven't used it yet. The reporting tool also serves it purpose well. But I do avoid replying to some members in an attempt to keep the peace and stay on topic. Those like myself that have a high post count have to be careful of the content we post and I'm doing my best to keep that in consideration and improving my forum edicate the best I can. I would like to thank the mods for their continued hard work in making this forum inclusive, fun and informative.
We weren't a good team last year. We only made the playoffs because Edmonton chose the wrong QB to start the season. We haven't gotten any better yet. Suggesting we're going to be good this year is magical thinking.
Quote from: TBURGESS on January 24, 2026, 03:25:22 PMWe weren't a good team last year. We only made the playoffs because Edmonton chose the wrong QB to start the season. We haven't gotten any better yet. Suggesting we're going to be good this year is magical thinking.
Aren't we a ray of sunshine today
Having Willie, even if he isn't an every down guy, is a great value to the team.
We will have rookies in TC and beyond, and no better role model and mentor than Willie. Jake will be grateful to have Willie on the field, and also helping him off the field as he finds his feet as a coach.
This is a literal no brainer.
Quote from: TBURGESS on January 24, 2026, 03:25:22 PMWe weren't a good team last year. We only made the playoffs because Edmonton chose the wrong QB to start the season. We haven't gotten any better yet. Suggesting we're going to be good this year is magical thinking.
There's some truth to this unfortunately. But we replaced Hogan with Condell which is an upgrade IMO. Offense was our major problem last year. I will reserve judgement until I see what happens in FA.
Quote from: Pete on January 24, 2026, 04:41:40 PMAren't we a ray of sunshine today
He's also not entirely wrong. It's a bit harsh and probably not entirely fair, but the last two seasons have seen continued regression, not improvement, on the whole. To some degree it was inevitable, you can't dominate the league with the same players forever, and so regression compared to the high water mark of probably the best all CFL teams in the last decade isn't quite the same as regression for the 2024-2026 Ottawa RedBlacks... but it's still regression.
In my estimation we need four things: an injection of players playing above their contract value, significantly better offensive and defensive line play, better offensive schemes and improved QB talent behind Collaros.
We probably have one of those things so far. The rest? Somewhere between looking unlikely to totally unknown. Free agency will be interesting.
Quote from: bunker on January 24, 2026, 05:09:12 PMThere's some truth to this unfortunately. But we replaced Hogan with Condell which is an upgrade IMO.
I agree that Condell is the only upgrade so far.
Good signing.
Grey cup 2024 Willie had a spectacular game. A one man wrecking crew.
That's not that long ago.
Quote from: TBURGESS on January 24, 2026, 03:25:22 PMWe weren't a good team last year. We only made the playoffs because Edmonton chose the wrong QB to start the season. We haven't gotten any better yet. Suggesting we're going to be good this year is magical thinking.
I have suggested we will be slightly better than last year. People are allowed to suggest we will be good this year, nothing magic about it, just one opinion.
Quote from: markf on January 24, 2026, 06:51:28 PMGood signing.
Grey cup 2024 Willie had a spectacular game. A one man wrecking crew.
That's not that long ago.
Facts, was a beast of a game and those will continue
We were an average ball club last year with a bunch off issues, I see us retooling and improving. All on the OL and ensuring our DL improves imo.
Quote from: Blueforlife on January 24, 2026, 06:56:38 PMI have suggested we will be slightly better than last year. People are allowed to suggest we will be good this year, nothing magic about it, just one opinion. Facts, was a beast of a game and those will continue
We were an average ball club last year with a bunch off issues, I see us retooling and improving. All on the OL and ensuring our DL improves imo.
And people are allowed to call that kind of thinking magic thinking.
Quote from: TBURGESS on January 24, 2026, 07:28:05 PMAnd people are allowed to call that kind of thinking magic thinking.
Doesn't mean the Bombers won't pull a few magic tricks of their own and treat us to solid season of success. We have a good core and top coaches. I think things will fall if place once we shore up our lines. Will be a challenging year as the West will likely be pretty good. The parity in the league will be evident again, which is a good thing. I am cautiously optimistic about the year ahead.
QuoteAren't we a ray of sunshine today
But it's the truth, if Edmonton started with Cody, we don't make the playoffs. I m sure they won't make that mistake again, West is going to be tough and we need to upgrade both lines and so far, I don't see any upgrading. We d better make some big signings during FA
Quote from: TBURGESS on January 24, 2026, 07:28:05 PMAnd people are allowed to call that kind of thinking magic thinking.
Zach has been feasting on a diet of magic beans, he's ready to explode, a colossal rebirth is about to occur!
Quote from: gobombersgo on January 23, 2026, 11:34:41 PMWillie said negotiations were a bit more difficult than other years.
No kidding. I should hope so. He was probably looking for current salary + inflation bump. This comment means he didn't get that. Maybe he even got a bump DOWN from '25. And if KW got that to work then major kudos to him!! That would be some major poker face moves/bluffs going on. After all, Willie J is the de facto team leader and we could fall to pieces without him, having no heir apparent.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 23, 2026, 05:43:53 PMWillie's taking a fair bit of guff these days, but he's done what has been asked of him without complaining even though it affects his stats, that's FIFO.
Comment of the year so far. People need to realize this. We're complaining about Willie's stats when 75% of the time he was helped by only 2 extra guys, and at least 1 of them was pretty sub-par?
I think Willie did the best he could, and basically did exactly what he was told to. And he did it well. Contain. Batdowns. Lane-clogging.
If the team really did ask him to "make more plays in the backfield" then I hope they are giving him the extra tools (personnel and schemes) to do that!
Quote from: Blue In BC on January 23, 2026, 05:48:02 PMI'd like to know the number but I'd like to see a DI that takes some of his reps. We need to have a succession plan as well as spell him at times.
Uh, don't we already have buckets of packages where Willie is off the field? He hasn't been an every-down guy for a number of seasons.
Quote from: TBURGESS on January 22, 2026, 11:09:15 PMYou don't improve anything by retaining guys well past their prime.
Said Buono about AH33 in FA16.
Quote from: Tecno on January 26, 2026, 02:14:47 AMUh, don't we already have buckets of packages where Willie is off the field? He hasn't been an every-down guy for a number of seasons.
None of them include another import DT or even DE. At best we have the global Munier Bailey that played the last game.
Quote from: Tecno on January 26, 2026, 02:18:28 AMSaid Buono about AH33 in FA16.
BC offered Harris the same as we did. Harris chose us.
I'd rather get rid of players past their prime too early than too late anyway.
Quote from: TBURGESS on January 26, 2026, 03:18:34 PMBC offered Harris the same as we did. Harris chose us.
Nope.
"Wally Buono tells TSN 1040 afternoon show that B.C. Lions won't try to re-sign running back Andrew Harris"
https://theprovince.com/sports/wally-buono-tells-tsn-1040-afternoon-show-that-b-c-lions-wont-try-to-re-sign-running-back-andrew-harris
It's fairly well known that Buono thought AH was past his prime.
Quote from: Tecno on January 27, 2026, 05:14:44 PMNope.
"Wally Buono tells TSN 1040 afternoon show that B.C. Lions won't try to re-sign running back Andrew Harris"
https://theprovince.com/sports/wally-buono-tells-tsn-1040-afternoon-show-that-b-c-lions-wont-try-to-re-sign-running-back-andrew-harris
It's fairly well known that Buono thought AH was past his prime.
Andrew had around 1500 yards his last year with BC. I don't know if it's entirely fair to say that Wally thought AH was past his prime. Wally operated under the philosophy that it was better to release guys too early than too late. I'm sure he wanted nothing to do with how much $$$ we offered AH either.
Quote from: Tecno on January 27, 2026, 05:14:44 PMIt's fairly well known that Buono thought AH was past his prime.
Did Buono actually state that publicly? Nothing in that article even comes remotely close to that claim.
Buono seems to have taken exception with Harris' outburst after the Lions got demolished in the 2015 WSF (https://www.cbc.ca/sports/football/cfl/wally-buono-outburst-won-t-affect-lions-1.3325487). Less than two months later, Buono couldn't even be bothered to answer questions from local media regarding Harris pending free agency (https://theprovince.com/sports/football/ewen-questioned-about-leos-plans-for-andrew-harris-wally-buono-shows-some-moves-of-his-own).
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on January 27, 2026, 05:41:50 PMDid Buono actually state that publicly? Nothing in that article even comes remotely close to that claim.
It's part of the accepted CFL lore. It's been stated on this forum countless times (and no, not just by me, or by me first).
Maybe it never happened, maybe we just haven't found the right article yet. People following the CFL closer than I did in '16 might have better memories of how it went down.
However, it does dovetail perfectly with Buono's "too early" mantra.
Quote from: Jesse on January 27, 2026, 05:21:49 PMAndrew had around 1500 yards his last year with BC. I don't know if it's entirely fair to say that Wally thought AH was past his prime. Wally operated under the philosophy that it was better to release guys too early than too late. I'm sure he wanted nothing to do with how much $$$ we offered AH either.
Yep, Wally probably believed RB's were not worth spending much money on, which many still believe today. In AH's last year he tried to back him up with Natl. RB's of which none panned out, so he saw 2 legitimate reasons to switch back to a cheap import RB.
Quote from: Tecno on January 27, 2026, 05:52:51 PMIt's part of the accepted CFL lore. It's been stated on this forum countless times (and no, not just by me, or by me first).
Maybe it never happened, maybe we just haven't found the right article yet. People following the CFL closer than I did in '16 might have better memories of how it went down.
However, it does dovetail perfectly with Buono's "too early" mantra.
(https://y.yarn.co/22f855c4-3c83-4812-ba56-141dafbc4c8b_text.gif)
In any event, Buono's shortsighted stupidity and stubbornness worked out well for Harris, the Bombers, and us fans. ;D
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on January 27, 2026, 06:23:45 PM(https://y.yarn.co/22f855c4-3c83-4812-ba56-141dafbc4c8b_text.gif)
In any event, Buono's shortsighted stupidity and stubbornness worked out well for Harris, the Bombers, and us fans. ;D
Should be noted that Wally's last 5-6 seasons in BC did not go well, he jumped up to GM and hired Benevides then Tedford as HC for a few years before taking on the HC/GM role again after the Lions failed to advance to the WF even once. Eventually Hervey took over and Wally got kicked upstairs to the C suite.