This thread for announcements and comments will be unlocked April 28.
TORONTO — The CFL will welcome its 2026 Draft class on Tuesday, April 28, with the CFL Canadian Draft.
Football fans across the country can tune into CFL Canadian Draft starting at 7:00 p.m. ET.
TSN and TSN+ will air the first two rounds live, including commentary and in-depth analysis, before things shift only to TSN+ for rounds 3-8.
All picks will also be unfolding in real time on CFL.ca's Official CFL Canadian Draft Tracker.
2026 Canadian Draft Order...
https://www.cfl.ca/2026-cfl-draft-order/
Thread is unlocked for announcements and discussion.
2026 #4 draft pick by Winnipeg is Nuer Gatkuoth DL.
Do we like this pick?
the happiest guys in the room after this pick are hamilton and calgary
A Canadian who can rotate on the dline and potentially start down the road, what's not to like?
ehhh, glad they went somewhere in the trenches. They have also shown very little ability to develop or assess defensive ends, so the fact it's not a OL or DT is a bit concerning. We shall see
can't say i know anything about most of these players...prefer o line but maybe this guy will be a player
Denis would have been a much better pick, An undersized dlineman whose basically being picked as a backup at best?
Quote from: Pete on April 28, 2026, 11:45:33 PMDenis would have been a much better pick, An undersized dlineman whose basically being picked as a backup?
2 acl tears for Denis - no thanks
Think there's a strong case for a three Canadian receiving, two Canadian offensive line approach in 2026.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 28, 2026, 11:46:42 PMThink there's a strong case for a three Canadian receiving, two Canadian offensive line approach in 2026.
Hopefully, it's about having the ability to field whatever compliment gives us the best total players. Not being hemmed in to a particular ratio before TC even starts.
I hope this guys turns out much more productive than previous draft picks at DE.
No where to go but up here on this guy!
hopefully not Faith ekatatie part two...
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on April 28, 2026, 11:52:56 PMI hope this guys turns out much more productive than previous draft picks at DE.
No where to go but up here on this guy!
Looks like he got a mini-camp invite to the Broncos. Gotta be some potential there.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 28, 2026, 11:46:42 PMThink there's a strong case for a three Canadian receiving, two Canadian offensive line approach in 2026.
i agree, but i hate it. it's simply not sustainable, and our canadian OL depth is frightening to say the least
As long as he's not Faith Ekaktike 2.0, I'm ok with this pick.
or anthony bennet
Quote from: Jesse on April 28, 2026, 11:55:01 PMLooks like he got a mini-camp invite to the Broncos. Gotta be some potential there.
i don't know what position he would play in the nfl. seems a bit light for a d line spot.
how fast is he?
Quote from: Pete on April 28, 2026, 11:59:02 PMor anthony bennet
That was a poor pick. Like I said no where to go here but up...
Quote from: The Zipp on April 28, 2026, 11:59:43 PMi don't know what position he would play in the nfl. seems a bit light for a d line spot.
how fast is he?
Plenty of tweeners in the league now. A guy who can pass rush but also take a step back into coverage at times.
Further comments, announcements on Rounds 2 to 8 are welcome.
Quote from: Jesse on April 29, 2026, 12:03:06 AMPlenty of tweeners in the league now. A guy who can pass rush but also take a step back into coverage at times.
that's why i asked about his speed
Quote from: The Zipp on April 28, 2026, 11:59:43 PMi don't know what position he would play in the nfl. seems a bit light for a d line spot.
how fast is he?
He's a bit slow for a linebacker in the NFL, and a bit small as a defensive end. Hopefully that works to our advantage in terms of getting him in camp this year.
Quote from: Pete on April 28, 2026, 11:59:02 PMor anthony bennet
good ol' "hey he can play special teams!" pick
Quote from: bunker on April 29, 2026, 12:08:04 AMHe's a bit slow for a linebacker in the NFL, and a bit small as a defensive end. Hopefully that works to our advantage in terms of getting him in camp this year.
yeah he's probably not getting more than a mini camp invite. way too small
TRADE !!!
moving up!
Big Blue trade up! :D
Bombers have executed a trade to gain the 10th overall pick. Stay tuned.
#10 Pick by the Bombers Dante Daniels TE.
Dante Daniels
Who?
We traded a second round pick next year for a blocking tight end. Interesting.
I missed it flipping channels - what did we give up to move to 10th?
hmmmmmm
tight end - big dude
6th oline ?
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 29, 2026, 12:17:19 AMWe traded a second round pick next year for a blocking tight end. Interesting.
I don't get this one.
panel seems settled he is going to play extra oline
270 pounds
why did we have to trade? did we have some inside scoop that argos or edm wanted him? So far this draft from a bomber aspect is not inspiring
40 time 5.02
bench reps 7
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on April 29, 2026, 12:16:59 AMDante Daniels
Who?
Exactly. What the heck? He wasn't even listed in the top 20 earlier and we traded up to get him? It didn't cost us much but it seems odd.
Quote from: The Zipp on April 29, 2026, 12:17:47 AMhmmmmmm
tight end - big dude
According to 3DN this is a reach, they rated him 89th overall and figured he would be available for 2 more rounds, big guy that only put up 7 reps on the bench and runs a 5.6/40.
I don't see why we had to trade up for this dude. I sort of get the idea of a TE who functions as the 6th olineman but can snag some passes too, I think.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 29, 2026, 12:21:29 AMExactly. What the heck? He wasn't even listed in the top 20 earlier and we traded up to get him? It didn't cost us much but it seems odd.
cost enough. 2nd rounder next year
6'6, 270... he can go up for Oline, or down for TE, or be the 6th man if Eli wins at C...
I'm not over the moon with this, and unless this was a "must have" and they knew someone ahead of them also was looking, I'm not sure he's gone before 13th. A second rounder is not a lot to give up, really. Hopefully its the free pick for most nat snaps. Or the last pick because we were 1st...
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 29, 2026, 12:21:40 AMAccording to 3DN this is a reach, they rated him 89th overall and figured he would be available for 2 more rounds, big guy that only put up 7 reps on the bench and runs a 5.6/100.
terrible numbers
Weird pick for #10
Not rated anywhere near that high in the mocks I've seen, and not a real position of need. Unless they see him as the new Eli/6th Olineman TE now that Eli is pencilled in at centre.
Weirder still to trade up to get him.
Sometimes Walters does weird things.
Quote from: bunker on April 29, 2026, 12:25:46 AMWeird pick for #10
Not rated anywhere near that high in the mocks I've seen, and not a real position of need. Unless they see him as the new Eli/6th Olineman TE now that Eli is pencilled in at centre.
Weirder still to trade up to get him.
Sometimes Walters does weird things.
Potential the 6th man on the O-line, if he puts on more weight and muscle he could morph into a real O-lineman.
So, Condell plans on running a jumbo/max protect package every down, and occaisionally we'll toss this guy a pass. Got it.
Forde says he is "enigmatic", we will see, I guess.
From 3down:
Daniels has the potential to be one of the biggest boom-or-bust prospects in this class, as he offers unique measurables without a clear-cut CFL fit. The six-foot-six, 271-pounder has primarily been used as a blocking tight end for the Wolfpack, and though his hands are reliable, he doesn't have the athletic juice to threaten in the passing game. That limits his value north of the border, and any teams curious about potentially converting his massive frame to offensive line will have serious concerns about the seven bench press reps he posted at the NC State pro day. Size has allowed the Windsor native to lean on opponents in the NCAA and make up for his deficiencies in strength and technique, but it will arguably be a detriment to his CFL chances, especially when you consider his lack of special teams experience.
Colour me pessimistic.
One advantage of having a true tight end in the jumbo offence is he won't have to report as eligible. That could be significant with the new 35 second clock this season.
The pick oddity is one thing to give up assents for him is quite another. I don't get it.
There also aren't a lot of six foot six 271 pound tight ends in the NFL game either anymore. Those guys are looking more and more like bigger, slightly heavier receivers these days.
It does fit the mould of bigger and stronger though.
Quote from: Pete on April 29, 2026, 12:20:29 AMwhy did we have to trade? did we have some inside scoop that argos or edm wanted him? So far this draft from a bomber aspect is not inspiring
40 time 5.02
bench reps 7
weak and slow?
With Goveia gone, who heads up the Bombers Canadian scouting now, Walters?
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on April 29, 2026, 12:36:53 AMThe pick oddity is one thing to give up assents for him is quite another. I don't get it.
I guess they made the call that someone else was going to take him in those three picks but we've essentially already paid two second round picks for him so I suppose there better be a plan for him.
Probably he should eat only lettuce and shrimp until July.
Lots of negative speculation
I would prefer to give all the picks a few years to develop before I make my judgement
It's always a cr@p shoot
Don't know what we got until they see the field
Ekakitie had the same 40 time
But he had 24 reps in the bench
Maybe Daniels has some intangibles?
A navy seal?
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on April 29, 2026, 12:42:29 AMI guess they made the call that someone else was going to take him in those three picks but we've essentially already paid two second round picks for him so I suppose there better be a plan for him.
Probably he should eat only lettuce and shrimp until July.
Exactly it makes little sense in the grand scheme, or does it? :-\
Quote from: Blueforlife on April 29, 2026, 12:43:41 AMLots of negative speculation
I would prefer to give all the picks a few years to develop before I make my judgement
It's always a cr@p shoot
Don't know what we got until they see the field
whats the fun in that! Get off the fence!
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on April 29, 2026, 12:45:48 AMExactly it makes little sense in the grand scheme, or does it? :-\
I guess we'll see. Hard to say because we don't know the plan or the conversations they've had. I certainly like it more if the thinking is to lean him out and play him as a big receiver.
If the plan to convert him to offensive line I really hate it because it almost never goes well.
And oddly, I don't really think there's anything he can do on a CFL field at that weight right now. He's too light as an offensive lineman and he'll be too heavy to be a receiver.
Can he play teams? Can he LS?
I see him as a true TE with Brady ball. True Jumbo Oline TE. Condell must be involved in this.
The TSN panel is having a hard time understanding most of these picks. So it's not just the Bombers that have made some head-scratchers.
Bonus pick, YEAh...
Quote from: pdirks67 on April 29, 2026, 01:02:35 AMThe TSN panel is having a hard time understanding most of these picks. So it's not just the Bombers that have made some head-scratchers.
indeed lots of word salad.
:D
Three OL selected in 1st round. None in the second. I was expecting the Bombers to select at least one OL in the first couple of rounds...is it about to happen?
Lots of guys from Rutgers, lol
Quote from: pdirks67 on April 29, 2026, 01:04:34 AMThree OL selected in 1st round. None in the second. I was expecting the Bombers to select at least one OL in the first couple of rounds...is it about to happen?
I bet they take a flyer on an NFL bound draft pick in later rounds, odds are they'll end up back in the CFL.
With the smaller endzones coming...maybe theyre preparing for the future and getting some bigger bodies for the red zone....?
Got Cline anyways.
dont mind this pick, more chance that he comes to canada than Bailey
Quote from: Pete on April 29, 2026, 01:10:43 AMdont mind this pick, more chance that he comes to canada than Bailey
Bailey won't be in the CFL. Guy has crazy measurables and motor.
Quote from: theaardvark on April 29, 2026, 12:58:24 AMCan he play teams? Can he LS?
I see him as a true TE with Brady ball. True Jumbo Oline TE. Condell must be involved in this.
The guy sounds exactly like how we've used Eli. With Eli probably moving to Centre, this seems like a natural fit for us.
Not sure why anyone would be confused.
Quote from: Jesse on April 29, 2026, 01:15:50 AMThe guy sounds exactly like how we've used Eli. With Eli probably moving to Centre, this seems like a natural fit for us.
Not sure why anyone would be confused.
More about the trade up to get him.
TSN sloppy in closing.
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on April 29, 2026, 01:17:14 AMMore about the trade up to get him.
I love the trade up. Go get your guys.
None of us have ever heard these names before in our lives, and we're saying this guy would have been available later? Whatever guys.
3rd round pick BOULIANE, Charles-Elliot Of course we need another lb to not play meaningful reps
OJUTALAYO, Jesulayomi wr or CROMWELL, Devynn db would have been better
Quote from: Jesse on April 29, 2026, 01:19:18 AMI love the trade up. Go get your guys.
None of us have ever heard these names before in our lives, and we're saying this guy would have been available later? Whatever guys.
Camp will be super interesting this year.
Quote from: Jesse on April 29, 2026, 01:19:18 AMI love the trade up. Go get your guys.
None of us have ever heard these names before in our lives, and we're saying this guy would have been available later? Whatever guys.
Slow, unathletic TEs generally arent coveted in the CFL. I dont need to know his name to know that even highly touted TEs rarely make an impact in today's game.
Quote from: Pete on April 29, 2026, 01:21:22 AM3rd round pick BOULIANE, Charles-Elliot Of course we need another lb to not play meaningful reps
OJUTALAYO, Jesulayomi wr or CROMWELL, Devynn db would have been better
Come on Pete, take a breather. Dude good be another Gauthier for all you know!
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on April 29, 2026, 01:22:20 AMSlow, unathletic TEs generally arent coveted in the CFL. I dont need to know his name to know that even highly touted TEs rarely make an impact in today's game.
TEs don't make any impact in the CFL game, they don't exist. Which is why this is likely an OL pick. We're probably thinking about rocking plenty of 6 and 7 man fronts.
Quote from: Jesse on April 29, 2026, 01:25:13 AMTEs don't make any impact in the CFL game, they don't exist. Which is why this is likely an OL pick. We're probably thinking about rocking plenty of 6 and 7 man fronts.
More than likely a FB. Not only is he slow, hes not strong. Realistically I think its more FB/true TE. Like I said, field is changing. Bigger bodies will be needed. We've seen them throw to the "TE" Eli in that jumbo package.
I'm certainly not qualified to assess what the team is doing with their drafts. That said there seemed to be more obvious areas of needs with a few picks. Picking another LB looked like the biggest reach.
It's going to take awhile to figure out which players might get bumped from the roster.
We did hear good things about Cline and Gatkouth in mock drafts and general conversations. It may result in a wait for a bit but that isn't necessarily a bad thing.
Ethan stuart at pick 33 is a decent pick we need dbs
Quote from: Pete on April 29, 2026, 01:30:44 AMEthan stuart at pick 33 is a decent pick we need dbs
6' @ 223 lbs? If that's right he sounds like another LB!!! Woodbey is our only DB that weights more.
Quote from: Pete on April 29, 2026, 01:30:44 AMEthan stuart at pick 33 is a decent pick we need dbs
At this point it's ST and PR players.
Stuart at Safety backing up Kramdi would be nice.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 29, 2026, 01:33:44 AM6' @ 223 lbs? If that's right he sounds like another LB!!!
a bonus as far as oshea goes. but he does have 4.63 40 speed and is quick, as bigblue says sounds like a safety
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on April 29, 2026, 01:36:57 AMStuart at Safety backing up Kramdi would be nice.
Quote from: Jesse on April 29, 2026, 01:35:52 AMAt this point it's ST and PR players.
This where we could have taken another player that is currently under an UDFA. Reese for example.
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on April 29, 2026, 01:36:57 AMStuart at Safety backing up Kramdi would be nice.
Kramdi isn't expected to move to safety.
Clark Brody, another LB drafted.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 29, 2026, 01:39:05 AMKramdi isn't expected to move to safety.
Clark Brody, another LB drafted.
Need those teamers.
Stuart might be a sleeper. Sounds like he could potentially play DB, S and SAM.
Quote from: RebusRankin on April 29, 2026, 01:42:21 AMStuart might be a sleeper. Sounds like he could potentially play DB, S and SAM.
Like I said, he's heavier than anyone we have at any of those positions. He sounds like a LB and will be behind those drafted in 2025.
He may be a good ST player but we saw how little others played on defence last year. Barring injury, I suppose he's injury depth and one headed towards our PR ( not the worst idea ).
Quote from: Pete on April 29, 2026, 12:20:29 AMwhy did we have to trade? did we have some inside scoop that argos or edm wanted him? So far this draft from a bomber aspect is not inspiring
40 time 5.02
bench reps 7
Yikes. On my Blue/Gold day in 1990, I managed to put up 16 @ 225 as a 5'9", 245# fullback....at 17.
7 reps? How is that even possible unless you're injured, or have never seen the inside of a weight room?
Quote from: VictorRomano on April 29, 2026, 01:48:38 AMYikes. On my Blue/Gold day in 1990, I managed to put up 16 @ 225 as a 5'9", 245# fullback....at 17.
7 reps? How is that even possible unless you're injured, or have never seen the inside of a weight room?
The longer your arms, the harder the bench press is. We've seen plenty of OL picks have single digit BP reps.
And the RB/FB always put up the highest reps.
All defensive picks except the "TE" and a flyer on Cline.
Intrigued about the player but hate the trade up. A second rounder is a hefty price to pay. outside of that, would prefer DT over linebacker but can't really complain. Love the Cine pick, not sure he will stick in the NFL.
Quote from: Jesse on April 29, 2026, 01:51:04 AMAll defensive picks except the "TE" and a flyer on Cline.
Couple of good receivers picked up in late rounds by BC and Calgary, Bombers suck at drafting receivers.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 29, 2026, 01:57:45 AMCouple of good receivers picked up in late rounds by BC and Calgary, Bombers suck at drafting receivers.
we dont need no stinkin recievers... we got Corcoran and Cobb ;D
Ben Britton WR Calgary
Joshua Jack WR Saint Mary's
Why did EDM get 19 and us 20? We didn't use a single DNA snap in '25... and I assume EDM didn't either. So what was the tie breaker?
Quote from: The Zipp on April 29, 2026, 12:22:24 AMcost enough. 2nd rounder next year
I agree with the other poster who said that I bet the idea is we finish 1st or 2nd in '26, meaning our '27 2RDP isn't worth much. And like yet another one said, we get the freebie DNA pick too.
Quote from: M.O.A.B. on April 29, 2026, 02:05:43 AMBen Britton WR Calgary
Joshua Jack WR Saint Mary's
3DN live stream mentioned that Britton was a solid receiver in 2024 then took 2025 off. He mentioned to some teams that he was ready to return to football in 2026.
He could be a sneaky good pick.
Quote from: Pete on April 29, 2026, 12:20:29 AMwhy did we have to trade? did we have some inside scoop that argos or edm wanted him?
I think we panicked. I think we wanted one of the hoggies taken overall #1/#2. They clearly wanted this TE guy and thought they'd get sniped yet again. When in reality no one else was taking this guy until 3rd+ round.
Quote from: Tecno on April 29, 2026, 02:12:34 AMWhy did EDM get 19 and us 20? We didn't use a single DNA snap in '25... and I assume EDM didn't either. So what was the tie breaker?
Edmonton was starting as many as 11 nationals early in the season.
K Brady Lidster, Windsor
Quote from: RebusRankin on April 28, 2026, 11:40:34 PMA Canadian who can rotate on the dline and potentially start down the road, what's not to like?
The only question: is he better than Kongbo? If he's not, this is a stupid pick. TSN might be getting ahead of themselves saying this guy is the succession plan for Willie.
That said, I do like the idea of drafting high guys who can start THIS SEASON. Don't care about next season and the pipeline, except at OL.
Yay for new group of STers, some TC fodders and a future OL.
Quote from: Jesse on April 29, 2026, 01:41:58 AMNeed those teamers.
Is there some law that says the best teamers are LBers?? Maybe it is the ideal body type/size. Hmmm.
Quote from: Tecno on April 29, 2026, 02:12:34 AMWhy did EDM get 19 and us 20? We didn't use a single DNA snap in '25... and I assume EDM didn't either. So what was the tie breaker?
Ford started a bunch of games.
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on April 29, 2026, 01:28:07 AMMore than likely a FB. Not only is he slow, hes not strong. Realistically I think its more FB/true TE. Like I said, field is changing. Bigger bodies will be needed. We've seen them throw to the "TE" Eli in that jumbo package.
OTT then picked TE/FB Emeric Boutin right after... I think he was slotted higher in the mocks. Did we make a big mistake??
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 29, 2026, 02:35:24 AMFord started a bunch of games.
Could have sworn it was "who used the DNA snaps the least". But it looks like you guys who thought "most NAT snaps overall" was literal were correct.
Hate to be the guy who has to track all of that...
Quote from: Tecno on April 29, 2026, 02:37:06 AMOTT then picked TE/FB Emeric Boutin right after... I think he was slotted higher in the mocks. Did we make a big mistake??
the mocks are simply mocks. i wouldn't put much stock into them. If you look at measurables, one guy is 3 inches and40 pounds heavier. If the Bombers want a blocker, you take the big guy
Ok, so 2 of the best picks might not be available for awhile this year. That's alright. Are any of the others returning to school for another year?
I'm not sure any of them make the AR unless we have injuries so the team may have been looking at succession plans for 2027.
This doesn't mean those picks don't have a future. I don't see where 2 more LB's, 2 more receivers and a kickers fit into the immediate plan. Yes we need to stock the PR with a couple of Canadians.
Quote from: kkc60 on April 29, 2026, 02:39:41 AMIf the Bombers want a blocker, you take the big guy
Blocker who can't get in place quickly and be agile enough to actually keep in front of the D is basically useless. We had a ton of "blocking air" by Ike, jumbo & the RECs last season. That's why our screen is basically useless.
You want to learn how to block for a screen, watch MTL and SSK. (Oh ya, part of it is mega-holding...)
Quote from: Tecno on April 29, 2026, 02:38:45 AMCould have sworn it was "who used the DNA snaps the least". But it looks like you guys who thought "most NAT snaps overall" was literal were correct.
Hate to be the guy who has to track all of that...
Easy to track with chipped jerseys
Quote from: Tecno on April 29, 2026, 02:47:14 AMBlocker who can't get in place quickly and be agile enough to actually keep in front of the D is basically useless. We had a ton of "blocking air" by Ike, jumbo & the RECs last season. That's why our screen is basically useless.
You want to learn how to block for a screen, watch MTL and SSK. (Oh ya, part of it is mega-holding...)
He should be fine as a blocker. I personally wouldn't read too much into the testing. I like them going with potential here at the position, don't love the trade up but i like the player. His build is worth the risk
Quote from: Stats Junkie on April 29, 2026, 02:51:49 AMEasy to track with chipped jerseys
We're doing that already? Love to know how that works... radio triangulation or sensors in the turf/lines?
News to me!
Quote from: M.O.A.B. on April 29, 2026, 02:05:43 AMBen Britton WR Calgary
Joshua Jack WR Saint Mary's
6'-3" 220, might be a sleeper.
Gatkuoth made sense at #4. lots of upside to this kid.
Wasn't impressed with the Daniels pick at #10. If we needed a FB I would have went with Boutin.
Cline: could be very good once he returns from the NF
Ethan Stuart: 6" 223. This kid could be our next (S). Very good speed, nose for the ball, and has played S,DB and LB.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 29, 2026, 02:59:14 AM6'-3" 220, might be a sleeper.
CFL draft tracker has him listed at 205.
Little surprised we didn't take Udoh at #24. Kid had a good year for the Bison.
Here is a complete rundown of the Blue Bomber draft picks today...
Blue Bombers 2026 CFL Canadian Draft summary
WINNIPEG, MB., April 28, 2026 – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers selected nine players in the 2026 CFL Canadian Draft held tonight.
Winnipeg had nine picks in the eight-round draft and made one trade during the evening, sending a second-round pick (13th overall) and a second rounder in the 2027 CFL Canadian Draft to the Ottawa RedBlacks to move up to the 10th overall spot.
Here is a summary of the Blue Bombers selections:
Round 1, 4th overall:
-Nuer Gatkuoth, defensive end
Gatkuoth (6-4, 227, Wake Forest University) split his collegiate career between Wake Forest (2025) and Colorado State (2022-24) and with the Demon Deacons last season registered 39 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, six quarterback sacks and one forced fumble in 12 games. He was also credited with 21 quarterback hurries while being named a finalist for the 2025 Jon Cornish Trophy as the top Canadian player in NCAA football.
He played in 17 games over his two years with the Rams with 68 total tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, one interception and two forced fumbles.
Gatkuoth recently accepted a rookie mini-camp invitation from the Denver Broncos.
Round 2, 10th overall (following trade with Ottawa)
-Dante Daniels, tight end
Daniels (6-5, 272, North Carolina State) started his collegiate career at Butler Community College before moving to the Wolfpack. He had 21 receptions for 253 yards and three touchdowns in 36 games between both schools while serving as a blocker and a receiving target.
Round 2, 20th overall (bonus selection for being one of two CFL teams with the highest total of snaps for Canadian players)
-Kevin Cline, offensive lineman
Cline (6-7, 320, Boston College; born: May 29, 2001, in Boca Raton, Fla.) played six seasons with the Eagles (2020-25) and started 11 games at right tackle in 2025 as a graduate senior. Born in Florida, he has national status as his mother is Canadian. His father Mike played for the Ottawa Rough Riders from 1986-88.
Cline signed with the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent on Sunday.
Round 3, 24th overall:
-Charles-Elliot Bouliane, linebacker
Bouliane (5-11, 229, Université de Montreal; born: February 19, 2002, in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, Que.) played four years with the Carabins (2022-25) and was a two-time Vanier Cup winner (2023, 2025).
Bouliane was a RSEQ (Quebec conference) and U Sports First-Team Special Teams All-Canadian in 2023 and an RSEQ All-Star in 2025.
Round 4, 33rd overall:
-Ethan Stuart, defensive back
Stuart (6-0, 223, McMaster University; born: January 17, 2002, in Oakville, Ont.) has spent the last four years (2022-25) with the Marauders, registering 73 tackles, two sacks, six tackles for a loss and three interceptions in 74 games.
Round 5, 42nd overall:
-Brody Clark, linebacker
Clark (6-0; 217; York University; born: September 11, 2001, in Delta, B.C.) was limited to just two games in 2025 due to an injury but was an OUA Second Team All-Star in 2024 after leading the conference in total tackles. He spent three seasons before York with the Langley Rams of the British Columbia Football Conference.
Round 6, 51st overall:
-Ben Britton, receiver
Britton (6-3, 205; University of Calgary; born: August 10, 2003, in Calgary, Alta.) was a Canada West All-Star in 2024. He finished the 2024 season with 42 receptions for 661 yards and three touchdowns, ranking second in the conference and leading the Dinos.
Round 7, 60th overall:
-Joshua Jack, receiver
Jack (6-0, 195, St. Mary's University; born: December 20, 2000, in Brampton, Ont.) has spent the last three years (2023-25) with the Huskies and in 2025 led the team with 28 receptions for 433 yards and two touchdowns in eight games.
Round 8, 69th overall:
-Brady Lidster, kicker
Lidster (6-0, 185; University of Windsor; born: December 15, 2004, in St. Thomas, Ont,) appeared in 38 games over his career with the Lancers (2022-25) and handled both the placekicking and punting chores. He was named a U-Sports First-Team All-Canadian in 2025.
I really like the Cline pick. Sounds like he's a lock to come back north. And looks like a the best of the rest after those #1/#2 guys were taken.
Our lackadaisical approach to hoggies this draft leads me to believe we consider ourselves set on the OL and pipeline. To me that means we think Eli will be good, and that Vibert has a future starting. If those 2 things weren't true, we would have found a way to get Vaccaro.
Kyle Walters will be holding a media conference Wednesday, April 29 at 1:00 p.m. CT.
Will report on his observations on the draft following the conference.
live look into trade and pick...
https://x.com/wpg_bluebombers/status/2049328273516032122?s=46&t=8CnDJGqaCBCZBxQBGwVX4Q
Quote from: The Zipp on April 29, 2026, 09:59:50 AMlive look into trade and pick...
https://x.com/wpg_bluebombers/status/2049328273516032122?s=46&t=8CnDJGqaCBCZBxQBGwVX4Q
Sounds like Walters really likes Daniels.
Quote from: Jesse on April 29, 2026, 10:13:37 AMSounds like Walters really likes Daniels.
it certainly does...drafted for his blocking and attitude.
Well, I'm clearly looking at things through Blue-tinted glasses, but I like the draft we had. Like many of us have said, draft the best players that you can find. Get your guys. Don't worry about filling certain positions because that's how you end up with busts.
The DE in the 1st sounds like a real prospect. Got in the backfield lots in college with QB hurries and sacks.
Walters clearly loves the TE. We've used Eli in the past as a blocking TE, but now we have a guy who has come up playing that role. Size and attitude.
Then we take one of the top rated OL in the draft. A true tackle prospect. Imagine in a couple years if we have Broxton on the Left and Cline on the right.
Everything after this point is throwing darts, but we have lots of LB and WR options from the last 2-3 years, so hopefully we get some meaningful reps out of a couple of them.
The kicker we drafted in 21. Seems like a back to school prospect and a guy we keep an eye on moving forward.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 29, 2026, 01:39:05 AMKramdi isn't expected to move to safety.
Clark Brody, another LB drafted.
He played there last season, maybe not officially on the DC. But he absolutely dropped back later in the year. Bombers like having a smart player in that spot as well. It wouldn't surprise me at all.
Quote from: Tecno on April 29, 2026, 02:37:06 AMOTT then picked TE/FB Emeric Boutin right after... I think he was slotted higher in the mocks. Did we make a big mistake??
I dont know about mistake...watching videos online of the coaches/walters etc discussing the trade, they clearly really want and have a plan for their guy. Im just not convinced they had to give anything up to get him.
Quote from: Tecno on April 29, 2026, 06:02:08 AMI really like the Cline pick. Sounds like he's a lock to come back north. And looks like a the best of the rest after those #1/#2 guys were taken.
Our lackadaisical approach to hoggies this draft leads me to believe we consider ourselves set on the OL and pipeline. To me that means we think Eli will be good, and that Vibert has a future starting. If those 2 things weren't true, we would have found a way to get Vaccaro.
Dont forget about the very real possibility that Manu comes north sooner than later.
Quote from: Jesse on April 29, 2026, 11:09:19 AMWell, I'm clearly looking at things through Blue-tinted glasses, but I like the draft we had. Like many of us have said, draft the best players that you can find. Get your guys. Don't worry about filling certain positions because that's how you end up with busts.
The DE in the 1st sounds like a real prospect. Got in the backfield lots in college with QB hurries and sacks.
Walters clearly loves the TE. We've used Eli in the past as a blocking TE, but now we have a guy who has come up playing that role. Size and attitude.
Then we take one of the top rated OL in the draft. A true tackle prospect. Imagine in a couple years if we have Broxton on the Left and Cline on the right.
Everything after this point is throwing darts, but we have lots of LB and WR options from the last 2-3 years, so hopefully we get some meaningful reps out of a couple of them.
The kicker we drafted in 21. Seems like a back to school prospect and a guy we keep an eye on moving forward.
I can't agree more. I like how we drafted a bunch of different positions. Some didn't like us drafted LBs but they will pay off if they can even be STs players. We should be set at LB for years to come! OL prospects are key. We well written summary.
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on April 29, 2026, 11:59:57 AMHe played there last season, maybe not officially on the DC. But he absolutely dropped back later in the year. Bombers like having a smart player in that spot as well. It wouldn't surprise me at all.
Kramdi isn't playing safety. He is a top Cdn LB. He played there last year because he had too.
I see Gatkuoth as a shorter, if 6'4" is short, Willie Jefferson. Cline, a steal late in the 2nd round, as possibly taking Stanley Bryant's spot one day.
In 2024, Cline appeared in 12 games, including 10 at both tackle positions, as well as at jumbo tight end and on special teams.
I think they drafted Clercius to block like Bailey but were not happy last year, so I see Dante Daniels as taking that role. As Walters says, Sh#$t kicking blocker, mean mofo.
Maybe Condell surprises us all by making us a run first team?
"I wouldn't be in this position if I wasn't adaptable and understand what players do best," said Condell, who spent the past two seasons as the offensive co-ordinator of the Ottawa Redblacks.
"To be able to marry that run with the pass is going to be the key."
A forward looking draft that potentially allows us to continue as the team we are without a major rebuild next year or the one after.
If it was Cline at 13 and Daniels at 20, would it bother some of us less?
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on April 29, 2026, 12:09:09 PMDont forget about the very real possibility that Manu comes north sooner than later.
He could. Lions went OL with their draft this year and he's now a roster counter I think. Probably be another full year but it's looking like more of a possibility than it did when we made the pick.
Walters wanted Daniels so he made the trade, maybe questioned, but that's who he wanted.
I think Bombers could have still got him at 13, but props for making the trade.
Time will tell.
Quote from: Waffler on April 29, 2026, 12:24:54 PMI see Gatkuoth as a shorter, if 6'4" is short, Willie Jefferson. Cline, a steal late in the 2nd round, as possibly taking Stanley Bryant's spot one day.
In 2024, Cline appeared in 12 games, including 10 at both tackle positions, as well as at jumbo tight end and on special teams.
I think they drafted Clercius to block like Bailey but were not happy last year, so I see Dante Daniels as taking that role. As Walters says, Sh#$t kicking blocker, mean mofo.
Maybe Condell surprises us all by making us a run first team?
"I wouldn't be in this position if I wasn't adaptable and understand what players do best," said Condell, who spent the past two seasons as the offensive co-ordinator of the Ottawa Redblacks.
"To be able to marry that run with the pass is going to be the key."
A forward looking draft that potentially allows us to continue as the team we are without a major rebuild next year or the one after.
Runs and bombs and we shall succeed
Agree all, like Neil Young says
"I won't retire but I might retread"
Quote from: Blueforlife on April 29, 2026, 12:17:12 PMI can't agree more. I like how we drafted a bunch of different positions. Some didn't like us drafted LBs but they will pay off if they can even be STs players. We should be set at LB for years to come! OL prospects are key. We well written summary.
Kramdi isn't playing safety. He is a top Cdn LB. He played there last year because he had too.
Top cnd lb does not equal best lb on the team for that position. He doesn't make the impact plays you want out of a Sam. He at times struggles in coverage especially in man. Hes a good tackler and at safety would be and was great against the run. We have 2 lbs from Last years draft, 1 of which could step in at Sam (or safety for that matter). And griffin who imo is much more suited to the sam spot.
Kramdi didnt have to drop back to safety last year, he did because thats where hes best suited.
Just thinking that the word was that we could have traded our # 4 and # 13 to get the 1st pick from Ottawa. Instead we used that # 13 to trade up @ # 10 for Daniels and gave up our 2nd rounder in 2027. We used our # 4 to get Gatkouth so it's not a black and white win or loss.
I guess we'll see how this works out, but Vaccaro could be a full time starter soon and instead we get a " role " player?? At best he's a very good role player but an OL gets every snap on offence. A TE/FB does not. Where does this put Chris-Ike?
Gatkouth might be great player but a Canadian DE is not common. It will be a bonus if he becomes a full time starter but just guessing that he is a valuable rotational piece on defence.
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on April 29, 2026, 03:08:08 PMTop cnd lb does not equal best lb on the team for that position. He doesn't make the impact plays you want out of a Sam. He at times struggles in coverage especially in man. Hes a good tackler and at safety would be and was great against the run. We have 2 lbs from Last years draft, 1 of which could step in at Sam (or safety for that matter). And griffin who imo is much more suited to the sam spot.
Kramdi didnt have to drop back to safety last year, he did because thats where hes best suited.
Not according to O'Shea or Walters.
Quote from: Tecno on April 29, 2026, 06:02:08 AMI really like the Cline pick. Sounds like he's a lock to come back north. And looks like a the best of the rest after those #1/#2 guys were taken.
Our lackadaisical approach to hoggies this draft leads me to believe we consider ourselves set on the OL and pipeline. To me that means we think Eli will be good, and that Vibert has a future starting. If those 2 things weren't true, we would have found a way to get Vaccaro.
With all the IMP hogs coming in, and the potential of 3 Imp Oline, not sure its a priority considering the talent we have currently.
Manu is still out there, Vibert still unknown, Eli, Wallace still grading out well... Cline seems an optimal pick. High ceiling futures pick.
I'm not sure how Vaccaro would fit, as he'd be a first year starter. It might end up he gets a three year stint in Ott and then comes home, when we might need his talents.
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on April 29, 2026, 03:08:08 PMTop cnd lb does not equal best lb on the team for that position. He doesn't make the impact plays you want out of a Sam. He at times struggles in coverage especially in man. Hes a good tackler and at safety would be and was great against the run. We have 2 lbs from Last years draft, 1 of which could step in at Sam (or safety for that matter). And griffin who imo is much more suited to the sam spot.
Kramdi didnt have to drop back to safety last year, he did because thats where hes best suited.
If that were the case he would be a full time safety. What it says is, the Bomber's have depth a SLB but not S.
Quote from: Waffler on April 29, 2026, 12:24:54 PMI see Gatkuoth as a shorter, if 6'4" is short, Willie Jefferson. Cline, a steal late in the 2nd round, as possibly taking Stanley Bryant's spot one day.
In 2024, Cline appeared in 12 games, including 10 at both tackle positions, as well as at jumbo tight end and on special teams.
I think they drafted Clercius to block like Bailey but were not happy last year, so I see Dante Daniels as taking that role. As Walters says, Sh#$t kicking blocker, mean mofo.
Maybe Condell surprises us all by making us a run first team?
"I wouldn't be in this position if I wasn't adaptable and understand what players do best," said Condell, who spent the past two seasons as the offensive co-ordinator of the Ottawa Redblacks.
"To be able to marry that run with the pass is going to be the key."
A forward looking draft that potentially allows us to continue as the team we are without a major rebuild next year or the one after.
Hold on with the all clear, Zach is of the age he's covering up grey hairs, coming off a string of mediocre seasons, good draft or not the Bombers are soon to encounter an iceberg they haven't prepared well for. Maybe Capt. Elgersma can save the ship, but I sure wouldn't bet my house on that outcome.
Quote from: The Zipp on April 29, 2026, 09:59:50 AMlive look into trade and pick...
https://x.com/wpg_bluebombers/status/2049328273516032122?s=46&t=8CnDJGqaCBCZBxQBGwVX4Q
LOL It looks like O'Shea has been sedated, pretty clear Walters is steering the ship, when he comes across so strong in his opinion, is anyone going to oppose him?
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 29, 2026, 05:30:18 PMLOL It looks like O'Shea has been sedated, pretty clear Walters is steering the ship, when he comes across so strong in his opinion, is anyone going to oppose him?
Just the little clip we see. The conversations for all these players have already occured.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 29, 2026, 03:22:53 PMJust thinking that the word was that we could have traded our # 4 and # 13 to get the 1st pick from Ottawa. Instead we used that # 13 to trade up @ # 10 for Daniels and gave up our 2nd rounder in 2027. We used our # 4 to get Gatkouth so it's not a black and white win or loss.
I guess we'll see how this works out, but Vaccaro could be a full time starter soon and instead we get a " role " player?? At best he's a very good role player but an OL gets every snap on offence. A TE/FB does not. Where does this put Chris-Ike?
Gatkouth might be great player but a Canadian DE is not common. It will be a bonus if he becomes a full time starter but just guessing that he is a valuable rotational piece on defence.
It's not common because teams never really gave them an opportunity before. We could see up to 5 teams start DEs this year. BC(Betts), Toronto(Kongbo), Montreal(Adeyemi-Bergland and Uguak). Teams that might: Hamilton(Bagnah), Edmonton(Smith), Ottawa(Vilain)
Hodge had Cline at #2, and Gatkuoth at #3. Boutin at #13 instead we traded up and took Daniels at #10.
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on April 29, 2026, 03:08:08 PMTop cnd lb does not equal best lb on the team for that position. He doesn't make the impact plays you want out of a Sam. He at times struggles in coverage especially in man. Hes a good tackler and at safety would be and was great against the run. We have 2 lbs from Last years draft, 1 of which could step in at Sam (or safety for that matter). And griffin who imo is much more suited to the sam spot.
Kramdi didnt have to drop back to safety last year, he did because thats where hes best suited.
I disagree with most of what you have stated but agree on the positive qualities of his game.
Kramdi is an excellent LB. He is not a safety full stop.
He won't play safety this year unless its an emergency, paying 2 to 1 one odds I'm right.
Well Walters seems enthusiastic especially with Daniels.
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on April 29, 2026, 09:16:15 PMWell Walters seems enthusiastic especially with Daniels.
Yeah but he was enthusiastic about Bennett and Etakitie also. Daniels floor seems to be a bust, and his ceiling seems to be an occasional contributor on offense like Eli and the Navy Seal. Walters has forgotten more about football than I'll even know, so I'm hoping I'm wrong.
I'm not sure about the pick but I'm all for the strategy of big, physical football players who are going to be hard to play against. And realistically I've got no real issues taking a big swing on a prospect that has the size and body type. The CFL draft more than any other is just a series dart throws more or less anyway.
Quote from: bunker on April 29, 2026, 09:57:28 PMYeah but he was enthusiastic about Bennett and Etakitie also. Daniels floor seems to be a bust, and his ceiling seems to be an occasional contributor on offense like Eli and the Navy Seal. Walters has forgotten more about football than I'll even know, so I'm hoping I'm wrong.
I don't really remember him being super enthusiastic about either guy. They were picks from weak drafts that we ultimately got stuck with.
Walters seems really enthused about this, brought up the specific vision that the team and Condell has for him. I'm really intrigued.
Quote from: gobombersgo on April 29, 2026, 07:39:34 PM
Walters said he wants Dante Daniels to lose 10-15 lbs (6'-6", 272 lbs) and become a true TE pass catching option in addition to replacing the 6th man on the O-line. Tweaks some interesting questions, I don't think they need 3 tough Natl. receivers in Nield, Clercius and Daniels who can block on the roster, so I expect they will revert to 3 Import starting receivers. Wallace is too valuable to be sidelined in his contract year, if Daniels becomes the the 6th man, than Wallace is the starting LG.
Quote from: Jesse on April 29, 2026, 11:24:33 PMI don't really remember him being super enthusiastic about either guy. They were picks from weak drafts that we ultimately got stuck with.
Walters seems really enthused about this, brought up the specific vision that the team and Condell has for him. I'm really intrigued.
Walter's took Ekakatie first overall. Hard to argue he wasn't enthusiastic about him as a prospect. He called Bennett "a polished pass rusher" and likened him to Jefferson
Walters talks up his draft picks every year. We'll see what Daniels turns out to be.
Quote from: bunker on April 30, 2026, 02:36:49 AMWalter's took Ekakatie first overall. Hard to argue he wasn't enthusiastic about him as a prospect. He called Bennett "a polished pass rusher" and likened him to Jefferson
Walters talks up his draft picks every year. We'll see what Daniels turns out to be.
you'd expect him to say that any one of his draft picks is a dud? Its all about potential, and the ability of the player and the team to develop it. Im not sure that the team has done as good a job as it should in the past
Quote from: bunker on April 30, 2026, 02:36:49 AMWalter's took Ekakatie first overall. Hard to argue he wasn't enthusiastic about him as a prospect. He called Bennett "a polished pass rusher" and likened him to Jefferson
Walters talks up his draft picks every year. We'll see what Daniels turns out to be.
Walters made a couple of big mistakes in 2025. Shay at #6, Calgary takes Fortin at #8 and he ends up to be Calgary's starting C. We took Smith at #15, BC takes Findlay at #16 he ends up to be there starting S.
Quote from: Pigskin on April 30, 2026, 04:43:50 AMWalters made a couple of big mistakes in 2025. Shay at #6, Calgary takes Fortin at #8 and he ends up to be Calgary's starting C.
Well, it can all work out if this season Shay is moved up to legit backup to MLB (or WILL?) who sees 1/4 to 1/3 the snaps a game. Then he starts in '27. If he can be even 3/4 as good as Singleton then it's a win.
If Shay's turns into a bust,
then we really Shay-t the bed.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on April 30, 2026, 12:44:59 AMWalters said he wants Dante Daniels to lose 10-15 lbs (6'-6", 272 lbs) and become a true TE pass catching option in addition to replacing the 6th man on the O-line. (...) if Daniels becomes the the 6th man, than Wallace is the starting LG.
For the past long while we've had used 2 guys, the 6th hoggie or the FB. Problem with that is we are showing our hand just by who trots out. If we can have one dude who is both 6th and FB/TE then our set tells the D nothing.
And we can still trot out the backup NAT OL as 7th in Condell's (in?)famous max-pro.
Makes it a tough sell to dress Ike now though. He may become backup FB sitting on PR.
But I don't see how Daniels being 6th dictates anything at LG. Could still be an IMP, or Wallace or ??. Daniels would take Ike's spot, or even some rando ST-only guy's AR spot.
Quote from: bunker on April 29, 2026, 09:57:28 PMYeah but he was enthusiastic about Bennett and Etakitie also. Daniels floor seems to be a bust, and his ceiling seems to be an occasional contributor on offense like Eli and the Navy Seal
No, he'd be double that because he'd be both positions in one guy. And you're underestimating how much we run a 6th, TE or FB set -- when the game is going the way we plan (we're ahead and in max clock-grinding mode) we run some sort of jumbo / "bigger pro mode" at least 1/3 of snaps.
If the dude can act like even half a McInnis-style REC (i.e. his hands work), I could see the dude on field for ~ half the snaps.
Quote from: CrazyCanuck89 on April 29, 2026, 07:05:38 PMWe could see up to 5 teams start DEs this year. BC(Betts), Toronto(Kongbo), Montreal(Adeyemi-Bergland and Uguak)
Kongbo didn't see the field much and almost never started? My hunch is he's on the outs and is just used for cheap/free ratio/spelling help. He never did reach the level anyone wanted out of him.
Quote from: theaardvark on April 29, 2026, 05:06:18 PMI'm not sure how Vaccaro would fit, as he'd be a first year starter.
He was training to snap at one of the schools. So could slot in as C. Or easily replace still-iffy Wallace at LG. Lots of ways to use him. It's not set in stone yet that he's a solid OT yet, though OTT might use him there simply because they have no one else.
There's also a pretty good chance one of Neuf or Stan gets IR at some point this season. It would be great to have more options.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 29, 2026, 03:22:53 PMJust thinking that the word was that we could have traded our # 4 and # 13 to get the 1st pick from Ottawa. Instead we used that # 13 to trade up @ # 10 for Daniels and gave up our 2nd rounder in 2027. We used our # 4 to get Gatkouth so it's not a black and white win or loss.
3down says OTT was a flat no on us getting #1 overall. They wanted Vacaro no matter what. So we tried to get the hometown boy, but couldn't pull it off.
Quote from: RebusRankin on April 29, 2026, 12:25:15 PMIf it was Cline at 13 and Daniels at 20, would it bother some of us less?
That's not the question. The question is "If it was Daniels at 13 and Cline at 20". The problem isn't the order, the problem is the trade to 10 (hinders us next season).
Everyone wants to know... was OTT, EDM, TOR going to take Daniels at 10, 11 or 12. That's the real 64k (er, uh, '27 2RDP) question! A lot of us think the answer to that is "no!". 3down indicates some teams thought he'd go in 2nd round (not necessarily at 10-12 though), and some teams thought he was going to languish into the 5th round. If the latter is true, we lost the 27 DP for nothing.
Like that other thread said: maybe KW was the antsy one. That X video sure looked antsy! But if being high on Daneils was his conviction and he thought there was a >10% chance he gets sniped, them I'm ok with the move.
Quote from: Waffler on April 29, 2026, 12:24:54 PMI think they drafted Clercius to block like Bailey but were not happy last year, so I see Dante Daniels as taking that role. As Walters says, Sh#$t kicking blocker, mean mofo.
Problem with that type of player is we may take a lot more holding and blocking-downfield penalties. It's like always-hold SSK's blockers: they take a lot more of those penalties than we do -- always skirting the line, betting on complacent refs.
Quote from: Waffler on April 29, 2026, 12:24:54 PM"To be able to marry that run with the pass is going to be the key."
Listen to him when he says this. He's laying it all out telling everyone what our identity is this season. Daniels gets us closer to this reality. It's going to be Brady ball with a ton of blockers, and passes when the D doesn't expect it. This is what was missing last season.
EDIT: listened to KW, and he spells out it's the legit #2RDP, not the bonus #2 pick, so that answers that.
All the paraphrases of the trade deal say "A 2RDP". Did we just fool OTT into trading for #19-#20 instead of #10-#18? That would be sweet. I'm a lot happier at giving up a #20 instead of a #10.
Though if we make the cup in '26 it all becomes a wash anyhow...
I'm kind of excited for Gatkuoth as this finally might get us back to cheetah. Gat in for Lawson along with 3 IMPs on DL, all in pass-rush mode.
Or allowing us to get Griffin more SAM snaps by having 2 (or 3?!) NAT DL.
At worst this 1RDP should be able to do what Kongbo did for us. Hopefully more. A lot more.
Quote from: Tecno on April 30, 2026, 06:57:40 AM3down says OTT was a flat no on us getting #1 overall. They wanted Vacaro no matter what. So we tried to get the hometown boy, but couldn't pull it off.
Vacaro had no NFL interest and is ready to play now. That does not mean we look back in 2 or 3 years and say he was the best OL picked. Yet to be determined on some others that MAY have a higher ceiling.
Quote from: Tecno on April 30, 2026, 06:45:17 AMWell, it can all work out if this season Shay is moved up to legit backup to MLB (or WILL?) who sees 1/4 to 1/3 the snaps a game. Then he starts in '27. If he can be even 3/4 as good as Singleton then it's a win.
If Shay's turns into a bust, then we really Shay-t the bed.
It's a great thought but then why did we sign Santos-Knox. We have too many LB's even before that: Ayers, Griffin, K.Wilson and Woodbey.
We'd all like to see Shay get a larger role and all of this could change in TC. Something has to give. Plus we drafted more LB's this week.
Draft picks are a quality not quantity situation, and thier value drops after the first round. Giving up a 2nd rounder next year to get a guy they wanted is not an issue, especially since we seem to get a free 2nd rounder every year.
This is not the Joe Mack era where we never seemed to have any picks. We have our fair share, and have normally done pretty darn good with them. DL seems to be a sore spot, though, lets hope the third time is the charm.
If Condell was behind the Daniels pick, then he has to live with it.
I just wish they had dropped a couple late rounders on potential never coming north guys, rather than TC fodder.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 30, 2026, 03:19:29 PMIt's a great thought but then why did we sign Santos-Knox. We have too many LB's even before that: Ayers, Griffin, K.Wilson and Woodbey.
We'd all like to see Shay get a larger role and all of this could change in TC. Something has to give. Plus we drafted more LB's this week.
We signed Santos-Knox because we recognized that last year wasn't good enough and we needed more talent on the roster.
Sign talented players. Let their play decide who fits in.
Quote from: Jesse on April 30, 2026, 04:33:47 PMWe signed Santos-Knox because we recognized that last year wasn't good enough and we needed more talent on the roster.
Sign talented players. Let their play decide who fits in.
It's easy to say that but then what does that say about the Canadian LB's drafted in 2025. If you expected any of them to take a bigger role, you wouldn't bring in Santos-Knox.
If there are those that aren't good enough, then why haven't they been released? We allowed a multitude of players to leave during free agency, deemed not good enough.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 30, 2026, 04:39:14 PMIt's easy to say that but then what does that say about the Canadian LB's drafted in 2025. If you expected any of them to take a bigger role, you wouldn't bring in Santos-Knox.
If there are those that aren't good enough, then why haven't they been released? We allowed a multitude of players to leave during free agency, deemed not good enough.
ST play is an important part of the team, you know that. Backup in a pinch is also part of roster management.
Santo-Knox is not the top MLB in the league, but he's no slouch either. Is he getting better or worse? Is he capable of stealing the job at WIL? Or is he a no risk TC fodder with upside?
When someone of his ilk comes available and agrees to Your terms, its a no risk no brainer, isn't it?
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 30, 2026, 04:39:14 PMIt's easy to say that but then what does that say about the Canadian LB's drafted in 2025. If you expected any of them to take a bigger role, you wouldn't bring in Santos-Knox.
If there are those that aren't good enough, then why haven't they been released? We allowed a multitude of players to leave during free agency, deemed not good enough.
I don't think it says anything about the players we have, I think it says a talented player was available who might be able to help us.
As to why we don't release everyone, how are we supposed to see who wins the competition if we release all the competitors?
Quote from: theaardvark on April 30, 2026, 04:47:23 PMST play is an important part of the team, you know that. Backup in a pinch is also part of roster management.
Santo-Knox is not the top MLB in the league, but he's no slouch either. Is he getting better or worse? Is he capable of stealing the job at WIL? Or is he a no risk TC fodder with upside?
When someone of his ilk comes available and agrees to Your terms, its a no risk no brainer, isn't it?
Roster size in TC is limited. Ratio during the season is specific. Sure ST's are important but you can still only play 12 players at a time and roster space is also limited for those roles.
If we were truly interested in adding a top LB we could have added Sankey or Awe as better choices. I'd disagree it's a no risk / no brainer issue.
If they expect to replace a veteran, that should have been done earlier to allow him an opportunity elsewhere.
My current expectation is that K. Wilson will not win the starting WIL. He certainly isn't going to accept a PR spot.
IMO it definitely says says something about those we have. In particular it says that none of the Canadian LB's will have a greater role on defence as it stands now.
Now if Shay and Smith are going to be the ST LB's then why do we need Ayers taking up a DI spot? He doesn't seem to have any chance to even be the immediate back up WIL or MAC.
Smith has 1 less ST than Ayers as a 1st year Canadian. K. Wilson might be a better choice as a DI instead of Ayers alternatively is Santos-Knox starts at WIL.
Quote from: bunker on April 29, 2026, 09:57:28 PMYeah but he was enthusiastic about Bennett and Etakitie also. Daniels floor seems to be a bust, and his ceiling seems to be an occasional contributor on offense like Eli and the Navy Seal. Walters has forgotten more about football than I'll even know, so I'm hoping I'm wrong.
i hope you're wrong to. :D
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 30, 2026, 05:25:49 PMRoster size in TC is limited. Ratio during the season is specific. Sure ST's are important but you can still only play 12 players at a time and roster space is also limited for those roles.
If we were truly interested in adding a top LB we could have added Sankey or Awe as better choices. I'd disagree it's a no risk / no brainer issue.
If they expect to replace a veteran, that should have been done earlier to allow him an opportunity elsewhere.
My current expectation is that K. Wilson will not win the starting WIL. He certainly isn't going to accept a PR spot.
IMO it definitely says says something about those we have. In particular it says that none of the Canadian LB's will have a greater role on defence as it stands now.
Now if Shay and Smith are going to be the ST LB's then why do we need Ayers taking up a DI spot? He doesn't seem to have any chance to even be the immediate back up WIL or MAC.
Smith has 1 less ST than Ayers as a 1st year Canadian. K. Wilson might be a better choice as a DI instead of Ayers alternatively is Santos-Knox starts at WIL.
The difference between Santos Knox and Sankey is the $$$. Not sure that Awe is expensive, but I think he's not a fit otherwise.
At the rate and guarantee that we signed him for, Santos Knox is a no brainer. If he beats Wilson for WIL, its a great trade up. If he doesn't, what did it cost? A roster spot in TC?
Quote from: theaardvark on April 30, 2026, 07:33:36 PMThe difference between Santos Knox and Sankey is the $$$. Not sure that Awe is expensive, but I think he's not a fit otherwise.
At the rate and guarantee that we signed him for, Santos Knox is a no brainer. If he beats Wilson for WIL, its a great trade up. If he doesn't, what did it cost? A roster spot in TC?
As a choice between the two it makes sense financially. It wasn't the only choice though.
Quote from: theaardvark on April 30, 2026, 07:33:36 PMThe difference between Santos Knox and Sankey is the $$$. Not sure that Awe is expensive, but I think he's not a fit otherwise.
At the rate and guarantee that we signed him for, Santos Knox is a no brainer. If he beats Wilson for WIL, its a great trade up. If he doesn't, what did it cost? A roster spot in TC?
I think we signed Knox because we needed insurance for the middle lb spot. Wilson is good at outside, but hes not a great choice for the middle. Its why we signed Jones ly even though we didnt use him.
Quote from: Pete on April 30, 2026, 09:35:01 PMI think we signed Knox because we needed insurance for the middle lb spot. Wilson is good at outside, but hes not a great choice for the middle. Its why we signed Jones ly even though we didnt use him.
Shay was supposed to be the back up at MLB as part of the future plan. J. Jones was closer to a rookie than a long time veteran and he spent most of his time on the PR. We can't move Santos-Knox to the PR.
We could end up with "Team 78" if Jones and Santos Knox win spots.
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 30, 2026, 04:39:14 PMIt's easy to say that but then what does that say about the Canadian LB's drafted in 2025. If you expected any of them to take a bigger role, you wouldn't bring in Santos-Knox.
Sure you would. The '25 DP LBers like Shay are still on the dev track. They aren't starter, or even #1 backup, level yet. That's why I said the best hope is to see Shay get many reps spelling the starters, at MLB or WILL (or both).
If Shay sits ST-only like most other DP LBers we ever get, then we'll know we're in trouble with that pick.
Even better would be Shay pulls a Kramdi and actually can start in year 2. But that doesn't seem to be in the cards. (Is WILL/MLB harder to dev/learn? vs SAM? dunno)
As for JSK... he's plug'n'play and ready to roll week 1. He could start or be main DI backup. For 2 positions.
Quote from: Tecno on May 01, 2026, 03:10:19 AMSure you would. The '25 DP LBers like Shay are still on the dev track. They aren't starter, or even #1 backup, level yet. That's why I said the best hope is to see Shay get many reps spelling the starters, at MLB or WILL (or both).
If Shay sits ST-only like most other DP LBers we ever get, then we'll know we're in trouble with that pick.
Even better would be Shay pulls a Kramdi and actually can start in year 2. But that doesn't seem to be in the cards. (Is WILL/MLB harder to dev/learn? vs SAM? dunno)
As for JSK... he's plug'n'play and ready to roll week 1. He could start or be main DI backup. For 2 positions.
Pure math ( game day roster of dressed players ) says all of that is an issue: Griffin, Woodbey and Ayers. It has nothing to do with his skill set. He can play those positions well.
I believe Jaylon Smith actually has more potential than Shay to play regular reps whether its at sam, or a 4th lb..
Quote from: Blue In BC on April 30, 2026, 03:19:29 PMIt's a great thought but then why did we sign Santos-Knox. We have too many LB's even before that: Ayers, Griffin, K.Wilson and Woodbey.
We'd all like to see Shay get a larger role and all of this could change in TC. Something has to give. Plus we drafted more LB's this week.
Walters spoke briefly on ratio flexibility on defence, he mentioned Kramdi, Lawson and potentially Gatkuoth but didn't mention the 2 natl. LB's.
Quote from: Pete on May 01, 2026, 03:24:49 AMI believe Jaylon Smith actually has more potential than Shay to play regular reps whether its at sam, or a 4th lb..
Then doesn't that make 1RDP Shay a bust? Think of all the high level starters that got picked after him...
Interesting, the longer BTS draft-night look gobombersgo recently put in the videolinks thread makes it look like the Daniels trade/pick was driven in no small way by Jim Jauch (newly appointed asst GM) -- KW specifically asks "Jimmy" on the final word? Which is interesting because that guy only joined WFC Jan '25.
Bet most of us haven't really heard that name much, if at all, this last year, let alone remember it, eh?
Looks like Jauch is moving up the ranks fast, partially filling the holes made by Ted and Rigmaiden?
I like it, especially if he's a keeper and we can actually keep him around.
might be my favorite pick of the draft now:
https://www.winnipegsun.com/sports/winnipeg/never-give-up-hard-scrabble-childhood-didn-t-stop-bombers-daniels/article_b2fdf82d-9f0d-4064-9bd5-dad710702757.html
Quote from: Tecno on May 01, 2026, 06:03:37 AMThen doesn't that make 1RDP Shay a bust? Think of all the high level starters that got picked after him...
I don't know but it would be good if either of these 2 were more than just ST players. Whether they are long term answers at any role as a starter or just good in game back ups would be useful. Safety was another role mentioned for Shay IIRC.
I'm not knocking Allen but I'd think his role as a starter will be challenged by several players in TC.
Quote from: Blueforlife on April 29, 2026, 08:55:22 PMI disagree with most of what you have stated but agree on the positive qualities of his game.
Kramdi is an excellent LB. He is not a safety full stop.
He won't play safety this year unless its an emergency, paying 2 to 1 one odds I'm right.
I guess we will see. This management has a track record of moving swiss army knives to Safety and want someone who can help quarterback the defense in that spot.
Quote from: Tecno on May 01, 2026, 06:03:37 AMThen doesn't that make 1RDP Shay a bust? Think of all the high level starters that got picked after him...
No. This is one of the biggest problems in pro football right now honestly. Rushing young guys on to the field. Him not taking any meaningful reps last year was, imo a smart move. Let him learn the pro game and get comfortable before piling more responsibilities on to him.
Smith at MLB and Shay at Sam is possible. But I doubt we see both starting this year. With the wealth of LB's they currently have I'm not sure either start, I guess it depends on how they want to work the ratio.
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on May 01, 2026, 02:14:05 PMNo. This is one of the biggest problems in pro football right now honestly. Rushing young guys on to the field. Him not taking any meaningful reps last year was, imo a smart move. Let him learn the pro game and get comfortable before piling more responsibilities on to him.
Smith at MLB and Shay at Sam is possible. But I doubt we see both starting this year. With the wealth of LB's they currently have I'm not sure either start, I guess it depends on how they want to work the ratio.
They don't have to start but they should see some meaningful reps on defence. Not every game is won or lost in the last 3 minutes. When game situations allow, give them some reps.
Noting that it's also useful for " maintenance " of those players that are starting.
Quote from: Blue In BC on May 01, 2026, 02:30:29 PMThey don't have to start but they should see some meaningful reps on defence. Not every game is won or lost in the last 3 minutes. When game situations allow, give them some reps.
Noting that it's also useful for " maintenance " of those players that are starting.
100% I'd like to see both or at least 1 get meaningful reps this year. I was just saying that if they don't start, I don't think it's a sign that they are busts. Young players need time to grow/learn etc. Starting after being drafted shouldn't be expected.
Quote from: The Zipp on May 01, 2026, 12:45:22 PMmight be my favorite pick of the draft now:
https://www.winnipegsun.com/sports/winnipeg/never-give-up-hard-scrabble-childhood-didn-t-stop-bombers-daniels/article_b2fdf82d-9f0d-4064-9bd5-dad710702757.html
Wow, reading that was very moving.
It almost seems like they traded up as much to show how much they wanted him as they did to get him.
His reaction to the question "what do you think about Western" shows that he has loyalty, and I don't think he's the kind of guy that will play his ELC and then move "home". He's here until we give up on him. Which, if he plays anywhere near the way he's reported to, is going to be very unlikely to happen.
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on May 01, 2026, 02:14:05 PMNo. This is one of the biggest problems in pro football right now honestly. Rushing young guys on to the field. Him not taking any meaningful reps last year was, imo a smart move. Let him learn the pro game and get comfortable before piling more responsibilities on to him.
Smith at MLB and Shay at Sam is possible. But I doubt we see both starting this year. With the wealth of LB's they currently have I'm not sure either start, I guess it depends on how they want to work the ratio.
I think you mean Smith at SLB snd Shay at MLB or WLB is possible.
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on May 01, 2026, 02:43:49 PM100% I'd like to see both or at least 1 get meaningful reps this year. I was just saying that if they don't start, I don't think it's a sign that they are busts. Young players need time to grow/learn etc. Starting after being drafted shouldn't be expected.
They really don't need to grow though. Both went to NCAA schools,if they were considered Americans, they would have a better chance of starting as rookies oe 2nd year players.
Quote from: CrazyCanuck89 on May 01, 2026, 08:44:37 PMThey really don't need to grow though. Both went to NCAA schools,if they were considered Americans, they would have a better chance of starting as rookies oe 2nd year players.
The danger is not providing them a quick enough career path to starting, seeing them leave and find stardom on another team, like Cameron Judge did. Long term Shay should be a much more valuable asset to manage than Tony Jones.
Quote from: BIGBLUE204 on May 01, 2026, 02:43:49 PM100% I'd like to see both or at least 1 get meaningful reps this year. I was just saying that if they don't start, I don't think it's a sign that they are busts. Young players need time to grow/learn etc. Starting after being drafted shouldn't be expected.
Not for 1st rounders. I think 1st rounders should 100% be expected to start in year 1 or year 2. They aren't as valuable if they take until year 3 because then you have only 1 year to take advantage of their cheap near-ELC wage. If they light it up in year 3 you get reamed on their re-sign before year 4 (as someone said about Judge).
Look at Kramdi, 2RDP, was already making starts in year 2. Shay needs to be at least that level.
So me expecting Shay to get many actual game reps (as backup) in year 2 is actually going easy on the kid. In fact, if we have some dire starter-LBer injury mid-season, it would be great if Shay could start. See also: Dequoy.
Quote from: Blue In BC on May 01, 2026, 12:58:15 PMI'm not knocking Allen but I'd think his role as a starter will be challenged by several players in TC.
As it should be. Allen is kind of a placeholder at best. He's no BA or Loffler. Surely there's a Canadian who could do it just as well. (Unless Allen ups his game this season, which is a possibility -- he's still pretty new to the team.)
Quote from: Tecno on May 02, 2026, 04:03:15 AMNot for 1st rounders. I think 1st rounders should 100% be expected to start in year 1 or year 2. They aren't as valuable if they take until year 3 because then you have only 1 year to take advantage of their cheap near-ELC wage. If they light it up in year 3 you get reamed on their re-sign before year 4 (as someone said about Judge).
Look at Kramdi, 2RDP, was already making starts in year 2. Shay needs to be at least that level.
So me expecting Shay to get many actual game reps (as backup) in year 2 is actually going easy on the kid. In fact, if we have some dire starter-LBer injury mid-season, it would be great if Shay could start. See also: Dequoy.
Totally agree, Shay and Smith need to get real game time this season, if they can hold their own against import contemporaries they move to becoming starters mid-late season or next year. Sucks to be Tony Jones in this case, but he is an easily replaceable commodity.