Released by the Jets today.
He's been discussed in the past about the possibility of returning to the CFL. I don't know that would be the case now, but it's an interesting thought. A returner / receiver type.
Hopefully we get Grant re-signed to a new deal.
However if Spencer does look back to the CFL, it might be worth at least a discussion with his agent. Chances of him returning would seem remote and his salary demand may exclude him. OTOH, he could fit one of those Nationalized Import spots if we in fact lose Grant. He had 259 receptions in 59 games and over 3K yards receiving. He'd fit that idea on the table.
Seems like an unlikely signing, but obviously it's Walters' job to check in.
Quote from: Jesse on December 01, 2022, 04:44:34 PM
Seems like an unlikely signing, but obviously it's Walters' job to check in.
That's all I'm saying. It will be same as we see some other veterans released in both the NFL or CFL. DI's aren't usually paid much more than ELC's and tend to change a lot season to season.
It's catch 22. A veteran that has been successful and a long time starter may want to extend his career in a more limited role.
We haven't really seen that much in the past for either Canadians or Imports. Ratio, SMS and roster size all come into play.
If Grant moves on, Spencer would be a great replacement option.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on December 01, 2022, 04:53:37 PM
If Grant moves on, Spencer would be a great replacement option.
Grant is definitely a question mark.
Took a long time to sign this past off-season and has certainly raised his profile this year.
Quote from: Jesse on December 01, 2022, 04:58:04 PM
Grant is definitely a question mark.
Took a long time to sign this past off-season and has certainly raised his profile this year.
I think Grant was exploring his NFL options which didn't pan out. He may get more looks this off season but he's 29 and that normally lowers NFL interest.
IMO Grant re-signs in Winnipeg but it's certainly not guaranteed. He could still see some reps on offence but it wouldn't be a high %.
Building the roster always has some trade offs. The returner is usually a receiver or DB option. Depending on which way he may serve as a back up sways the choices made for the rest of the DI's.
Holm is a DB/returner and good ST player. If we lose Grant he could fill multiple roles on his ELC.
That might change the choice to a veteran back up receiver as a DI. Not necessarily Spencer. Just showing that one decision can change the direction for another choice.
If we get Kongo back ( probably not ), that could eliminate an import DI as a DE. In 2021 it allowed the DI to be more of a DT choice.
There a few good return guys out there in FA right now, including Dedmon.
Quote from: Pigskin on December 01, 2022, 05:39:55 PM
There a few good return guys out there in FA right now, including Dedmon.
The free agent list just got published on CFL.CA. There are 246 potential free agents. Going to be some good players that move to other teams.
Quote from: Jesse on December 01, 2022, 04:58:04 PM
Grant is definitely a question mark.
Took a long time to sign this past off-season and has certainly raised his profile this year.
he sure did....with two return TDs in his last 2 games.....including a record breaking one in the Grey Cup game. In most of his TD returns he often goes untouched as once he finds the seam he's gonzo
Quote from: Jesse on December 01, 2022, 04:58:04 PM
Grant is definitely a question mark.
Took a long time to sign this past off-season and has certainly raised his profile this year.
I think Grant always wants to expand his portfolio beyond returns but that's unlikely to happen with the receiving corps. and the duties they perform here, decent chance they lose him.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 01, 2022, 06:40:04 PM
I think Grant always wants to expand his portfolio beyond returns but that's unlikely to happen with the receiving corps. and the duties they perform here, decent chance they lose him.
Return guys are gold when you find them, and they aren't all that tough to find. I love what Grant brings, and there is always a question about whether he can do what Lucky did, and doing so, increase his value/paycheck.
If he decides that is what he needs, that's up to him. I am sure that Mr. Walters has given him his options, and Mr. O'Shea has expressed his place on the team. If he decides that he wants more, I am confident that we will find a replacement for him.
Is Diontae Spencer that man? Certainly is an intriguing option, for sure. Again, would he be looking for a Lucky sized contract and role? Would signing him be any different than signing Grant?
I guess we will see how this all plays out...
I trust Mr. Walters and Mr. O'Shea to make the best decisions for the team. 100%.
Quote from: theaardvark on December 01, 2022, 07:20:32 PM
Return guys are gold when you find them, and they aren't all that tough to find. I love what Grant brings, and there is always a question about whether he can do what Lucky did, and doing so, increase his value/paycheck.
If he decides that is what he needs, that's up to him. I am sure that Mr. Walters has given him his options, and Mr. O'Shea has expressed his place on the team. If he decides that he wants more, I am confident that we will find a replacement for him.
Is Diontae Spencer that man? Certainly is an intriguing option, for sure. Again, would he be looking for a Lucky sized contract and role? Would signing him be any different than signing Grant?
I guess we will see how this all plays out...
I trust Mr. Walters and Mr. O'Shea to make the best decisions for the team. 100%.
Devonte Dedmon is also a F.A., as are a number of excellent returners, the small shifty receiver just doesn't fit in well with the Bombers receiving concept, thus they let Whitehead go in place of a grinder like Bailey.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 01, 2022, 08:00:58 PM
Devonte Dedmon is also a F.A., as are a number of excellent returners, the small shifty receiver just doesn't fit in well with the Bombers receiving concept, thus they let Whitehead go in place of a grinder like Bailey.
Not exactly true. Whitehead left for an enormous pay day in Vancouver and a chance to start at receiver. If we had a 2020 season he might have had a better opportunity to see what more he could bring as a receiver.
It's a little silly to suggest the Bombers didn't / don't have a fit for a small shifty receiver. Whitehead is 1" shorter than Demski. He's not as heavy but he's probably faster. Many have argued that Whitehead is not a good receiver because he catches with his body.
Whitehead played in 2 more games than Demski but he had about 230 more yards than Demski. He had more receptions and a higher per catch average.
It's fair to question SMS, two small shifty receivers in the corps or ratio, but nothing really says he couldn't have fit if not for those other issues.
Quote from: Blue In BC on December 01, 2022, 08:56:39 PM
Not exactly true. Whitehead left for an enormous pay day in Vancouver and a chance to start at receiver. If we had a 2020 season he might have had a better opportunity to see what more he could bring as a receiver.
It's a little silly to suggest the Bombers didn't / don't have a fit for a small shifty receiver. Whitehead is 1" shorter than Demski. He's not as heavy but he's probably faster. Many have argued that Whitehead is not a good receiver because he catches with his body.
Whitehead played in 2 more games than Demski but he had about 230 more yards than Demski. He had more receptions and a higher per catch average.
It's fair to question SMS, two small shifty receivers in the corps or ratio, but nothing really says he couldn't have fit if not for those other issues.
Both Whitehead and Darvin have said Walters did not make them a contract offer after the 2019 season, they moved on from Lucky because they already had Grant and Bailey.
Can't really compare Whitehead to Demski, they are totally different players. Nick is a running back that can block, catch and break tackles and according to Collaros, he's the best route runner he's ever played with. Lucky is like a Swiss Army knife with only one blade, he can run fast.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 01, 2022, 09:15:05 PM
Both Whitehead and Darvin have said Walters did not make them a contract offer after the 2019 season, they moved on from Lucky because they already had Grant and Bailey.
Can't really compare Whitehead to Demski, they are totally different players. Nick is a running back that can block, catch and break tackles and according to Collaros, he's the best route runner he's ever played with. Lucky is like a Swiss Army knife with only one blade, he can run fast.
Adams? He signed a three-year contract on Feb. 9, 2020 (https://www.bluebombers.com/2020/02/09/bombers-sign-receiver-darvin-adams-three-year-extension/), which I believe was voided after the 2020 season was cancelled.
I can't recall how it was reworked but he signed a one-year contract prior to the 2021 season. It was this past off-season where he wasn't tendered a new contract by the Bombers prior to free agency. He then signed with the RedBlacks.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on December 01, 2022, 09:24:21 PM
Adams? He signed a three-year contract on Feb. 9, 2020 (https://www.bluebombers.com/2020/02/09/bombers-sign-receiver-darvin-adams-three-year-extension/), which I believe was voided after the 2020 season was cancelled.
I can't recall how it was reworked but he signed a one-year contract prior to the 2021 season. It was this past off-season where he wasn't tendered a new contract by the Bombers prior to free agency. He then signed with the RedBlacks.
Right, Darvin left after 2021, Lucky left during F.A. of 2021.
All of our receivers are beasts that block very well. Agree smallish type receivers need not apply as they will compromise our run blocking ability from our receiving corps
Quote from: Blue In BC on December 01, 2022, 08:56:39 PM
Not exactly true. Whitehead left for an enormous pay day in Vancouver and a chance to start at receiver. If we had a 2020 season he might have had a better opportunity to see what more he could bring as a receiver.
It's a little silly to suggest the Bombers didn't / don't have a fit for a small shifty receiver. Whitehead is 1" shorter than Demski. He's not as heavy but he's probably faster. Many have argued that Whitehead is not a good receiver because he catches with his body.
Whitehead played in 2 more games than Demski but he had about 230 more yards than Demski. He had more receptions and a higher per catch average.
It's fair to question SMS, two small shifty receivers in the corps or ratio, but nothing really says he couldn't have fit if not for those other issues.
Even ignoring Whitehead, the Bomber coaches gave McKnight a hundred chances to catch on, and McCrae has also gotten a chance. The Bombers are not scared to deploy smaller receivers.
Spencer, who's that? ;) Forgotten all about him. He'll come back to the CFL and be the next Duke or Walker: a shadow of his former CFL self. I don't know what the NFL does to guys, but for the ones that actually get a chance (vs coming back within 340 days of bouncing around TCs/PRs), they almost never live up to their prior CFL standards when they come back. I'm starting to think the NFL is the devil that sucks their life essence out. :D
Of course, there are some exceptions (Bighill for example).
Quote from: TecnoGenius on December 02, 2022, 12:50:21 AM
Spencer, who's that? ;) Forgotten all about him. He'll come back to the CFL and be the next Duke or Walker: a shadow of his former CFL self. I don't know what the NFL does to guys, but for the ones that actually get a chance (vs coming back within 340 days of bouncing around TCs/PRs), they almost never live up to their prior CFL standards when they come back. I'm starting to think the NFL is the devil that sucks their life essence out. :D
Of course, there are some exceptions (Bighill for example).
He could be spoiled now?..someone tell Schoen that!
Quote from: TecnoGenius on December 02, 2022, 12:50:21 AM
Spencer, who's that? ;) Forgotten all about him. He'll come back to the CFL and be the next Duke or Walker: a shadow of his former CFL self. I don't know what the NFL does to guys, but for the ones that actually get a chance (vs coming back within 340 days of bouncing around TCs/PRs), they almost never live up to their prior CFL standards when they come back. I'm starting to think the NFL is the devil that sucks their life essence out. :D
Of course, there are some exceptions (Bighill for example).
In addition to Bighill, you could count Tom Clements, Marcus Thigpen, Andy Fantuz, Henoc Muamba, Weston Dressler and Dave Dickenson as guys who did not suffer from the NFL hangover. Those are just off the top of my head, I am sure people will remember others.
Quote from: the paw on December 02, 2022, 03:30:23 AM
In addition to Bighill, you could count Tom Clements, Marcus Thigpen, Andy Fantuz, Henoc Muamba, Weston Dressler and Dave Dickenson as guys who did not suffer from the NFL hangover. Those are just off the top of my head, I am sure people will remember others.
Walker went down to the NFL for a second time in 2017 and returned to the CFL just fine, so you could add him to that list.
Quote from: the paw on December 02, 2022, 03:30:23 AM
In addition to Bighill, you could count Tom Clements, Marcus Thigpen, Andy Fantuz, Henoc Muamba, Weston Dressler and Dave Dickenson as guys who did not suffer from the NFL hangover. Those are just off the top of my head, I am sure people will remember others.
Jamaal Westerman had a number of successful seasons here after spending some significant time in the NFL
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 01, 2022, 09:15:05 PM
Both Whitehead and Darvin have said Walters did not make them a contract offer after the 2019 season, they moved on from Lucky because they already had Grant and Bailey.
Can't really compare Whitehead to Demski, they are totally different players. Nick is a running back that can block, catch and break tackles and according to Collaros, he's the best route runner he's ever played with. Lucky is like a Swiss Army knife with only one blade, he can run fast.
Yes Whitehead and Demski are not exactly the same style players. I'd take Demski regardless of nationality, he's a superior player.
It doesn't change the fact we used Grant and McCrae as alternatives when Ellingson was injured. They had similar liabilities and lesser offensive talents. McCrae in particular was a similar style player to Whitehead.
Ratio, salary, roster space and a desire to start were reasons we choose to not retain Whitehead. I don't think anyone would have complained if Whitehead was retained as a DI or on the PR if he didn't want $$$$$$$$.
With the Lions in 2 seasons, he had 1950 yards and 138 receptions in 27 games.
No I don't think we try to re-sign him in 2023. If we lose Bailey to free agency, Schoen to NFL and move away from Ellingson, then I might take a different view.
When we are worried whether a return specialist can hack it as our 5th receiver or backup DB, we're in a pretty solid spot, really...
Is Spencer > Grant in that capacity? Definitely. He can be a 1000yd receiver as well as a top returner.
He will command top dollar should he come back to the CFL, if Grant has not re-upped, and we think we may have a problem with resigning some of our Rec corps, then we should definately be in the conversation. With the proviso that MOS thinks he is a fit in the locker room... I'm not saying that I have heard otherwise, ny knowledge of this point is zero, just saying, on this team, that may be one of the more important points.
Quote from: theaardvark on December 02, 2022, 03:38:16 PM
When we are worried whether a return specialist can hack it as our 5th receiver or backup DB, we're in a pretty solid spot, really...
Is Spencer > Grant in that capacity? Definitely. He can be a 1000yd receiver as well as a top returner.
He will command top dollar should he come back to the CFL, if Grant has not re-upped, and we think we may have a problem with resigning some of our Rec corps, then we should definately be in the conversation. With the proviso that MOS thinks he is a fit in the locker room... I'm not saying that I have heard otherwise, ny knowledge of this point is zero, just saying, on this team, that may be one of the more important points.
It's worth conversation with his agent and that's about all at the moment. He may not be considering the CFL, or Winnipeg in particular. He may or may not be a good fit. I don't know the answer to any of those points.
If it wasn't for the fact nearly all our starting receivers are potential free agents, it wouldn't even be a conversation. I expect all of our players back until I hear otherwise. IMO we're looking for depth on the PR if everybody is back.
Obviously that can change at a moments notice.
Quote from: the paw on December 02, 2022, 12:22:37 AM
Even ignoring Whitehead, the Bomber coaches gave McKnight a hundred chances to catch on, and McCrae has also gotten a chance. The Bombers are not scared to deploy smaller receivers.
The point being this type of receiver has yet to contribute enough to earn a starting spot in the current offence, it just doesn't fit their mix well. I expect BOLO to be given an opportunity to start this season if there is an opening, he fits in very well to the scheme.
Our receivers are all fine. Not sure about that guy they signed from Edmonton. He was hurt last year, and same this year. When you are in your thirties, you are not meant to be getting smeared by all those younger defenders. Ellington that is who I am talking about.
In his prime I thought he was excellent. Maybe he is done!? Boo!
Lewis is not happy in Montreal at the moment. If he reaches free agency, he'd be high on my list to consider. I like our receiving corps. I just don't know if we lose anybody at the moment. If we do then free agency could be a solution.
Quote from: Blue In BC on December 03, 2022, 04:18:54 PM
Lewis is not happy in Montreal at the moment. If he reaches free agency, he'd be high on my list to consider. I like our receiving corps. I just don't know if we lose anybody at the moment. If we do then free agency could be a solution.
I'm thinking the coaching staff they assembled will be able to convince him to stay.
I don't see any way we could afford Geno if he hit FA.
What would Lewis get as an FA this year.
Quote from: ModAdmin on December 03, 2022, 09:51:51 PM
Doubt it would be much less.
That's too much for the Bombers IMO.
Quote from: ModAdmin on December 03, 2022, 09:51:51 PM
Doubt it would be much less.
What did the Lions pay whitehead and the elks Lawler??
Quote from: the paw on December 02, 2022, 03:30:23 AM
In addition to Bighill, you could count Tom Clements, Marcus Thigpen, Andy Fantuz, Henoc Muamba, Weston Dressler and Dave Dickenson as guys who did not suffer from the NFL hangover. Those are just off the top of my head, I am sure people will remember others.
I said, and am thinking more the guys who actually play in the NFL, as in AR for a whole season. Not guys who bounce around PRs and never get anywhere other than dressing as backups and just a few game reps (like Biggie). And I don't mean guys that started in the NFL and then came here and didn't go back. It's the process of being the CFL, leaving for your big NFL shot, then coming back to the CFL that seems to screw up some players' heads.
Or maybe it's only a more recent phenomena: Duke, Walker, Matthews. Those guys actually made NFL ARs and were gone longer than the 1 year thing. I have a funny feeling that if Zylstra returned, he'd suck too. And maybe it's more a WR thing vs defense guys?
Bottom line: Spencer didn't impress me when he was here, and he'll impress me even less once he returns from the NFL with a "meh, bored" attitude. Now, if we lose Grant (doubt it) and we're desperate? Ya, you can look at Spencer, but put him on a short leash. BTW, how on earth would a "NFL-calibre" Spencer work out cheaper than Grant?? Better to just keep Grant.
You know who I think wouldn't suffer from this? Strevie. Bet he'd still have that fire. But maybe the QB position is different from the WR position in this regard...
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on December 02, 2022, 02:06:03 PM
Walker went down to the NFL for a second time in 2017 and returned to the CFL just fine, so you could add him to that list.
No, Walker has looked like garbage for his salary. As bad as Duke. That's why I specifically named him. No way any team, including EDM, pays Walker any sort of premium anymore. Bet he changes teams or quits the CFL in FA. Lawler made Walker look like a chump. I'd rather have Bailey than Walker. And remember how we were all drooling over Walker & Duke when they returned. We dodged those bullets after learning our lesson with Matthews.
Quote from: dd on December 04, 2022, 12:39:58 AM
What did the Lions pay whitehead and the elks Lawler??
I thought Lawler was whisper $300k? I don't recall anyone spilling the beans on Whitehead. Maybe $200k? I think Whitehead wanted to be there, he's a great fit. I think he'll stay even if they lower his $$ a little. It's good for both parties.
Eugene Lewis would be outstanding here. But I don't see it happening. He's easily $200k. We're more likely to try to find another great new kid like Schoen on ELC. Danny is the king of that.
My hope is that Schoen stays for another year, but I guess if he gets an NFL PR offer, he's gone. :'(
Quote from: ModAdmin on December 03, 2022, 09:51:51 PM
Doubt it would be much less.
I don?t see how. He?s up there in the top handful of receivers in the league. If he makes it to FA, multiple teams would be trying to outbid each other.
I think it starts at 225 for his talent and production and teams bid up from there.
We (KW) seem to like the near-washed up FA vets we can get for a reasonable deal. Nick Moore, Bowman, Matthews, Ellingson.
You might be able to fit Dressler in there too, but it turns out he had 2-3 good years left in the tank.
Ellingson was amazing early in the season, but his injury really killed the latter half and other than a great timing route in the GC, he didn't help in the post-season.
So the question is, what near-washed up FA vet is ripe for the KW-picking in this FA? Do we give Ellingson another year, maybe at a slightly reduced $$? I'd do it, and put him on the "Bowman and Matthews plan": you don't produce or are in the tub, then you get a map and an apple. As for other FA people: I'd need to see the list, no one jumps to mind.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on December 04, 2022, 01:51:34 AM
We (KW) seem to like the near-washed up FA vets we can get for a reasonable deal. Nick Moore, Bowman, Matthews, Ellingson.
You might be able to fit Dressler in there too, but it turns out he had 2-3 good years left in the tank.
Ellingson was amazing early in the season, but his injury really killed the latter half and other than a great timing route in the GC, he didn't help in the post-season.
So the question is, what near-washed up FA vet is ripe for the KW-picking in this FA? Do we give Ellingson another year, maybe at a slightly reduced $$? I'd do it, and put him on the "Bowman and Matthews plan": you don't produce or are in the tub, then you get a map and an apple. As for other FA people: I'd need to see the list, no one jumps to mind.
We haven?t heard anything about Schoen yet. That?ll impact decisions.
Quote from: dd on December 04, 2022, 12:39:58 AM
What did the Lions pay whitehead and the elks Lawler??
Keep in mind both were healthy when they signed big contracts with BC and Edmonton. Both suffered injuries and missed chunks of the season. Lewis had a stellar full season and was runner up league MOP. Doubt Whitehead or Lawler would command those salaries next season.
Quote from: Jesse on December 04, 2022, 01:45:02 AM
I don?t see how. He?s up there in the top handful of receivers in the league. If he makes it to FA, multiple teams would be trying to outbid each other.
I think it starts at 225 for his talent and production and teams bid up from there.
According to a very confusingly organized 3down article, Lewis got $170k in hard money last year, but his $25k signing bonus was against the 2021 cap. So I read that as $195k total, so I think your estimate for this year is very close.
Lawler had $177k in hard money and a weird and massive roster bonus of $128k, putting total compensation at $305k. I expect him to drop back to about $200k this year.
By way of comparison, Ellingson was at $165k which would have been a steal if he had played the whole season. With that kind of budget we can compete for any free agent WR except the top 2 or 3.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on December 04, 2022, 01:30:56 AM
I said, and am thinking more the guys who actually play in the NFL, as in AR for a whole season. Not guys who bounce around PRs and never get anywhere other than dressing as backups and just a few game reps (like Biggie). And I don't mean guys that started in the NFL and then came here and didn't go back. It's the process of being the CFL, leaving for your big NFL shot, then coming back to the CFL that seems to screw up some players' heads.
Or maybe it's only a more recent phenomena: Duke, Walker, Matthews. Those guys actually made NFL ARs and were gone longer than the 1 year thing. I have a funny feeling that if Zylstra returned, he'd suck too. And maybe it's more a WR thing vs defense guys?
Bottom line: Spencer didn't impress me when he was here, and he'll impress me even less once he returns from the NFL with a "meh, bored" attitude. Now, if we lose Grant (doubt it) and we're desperate? Ya, you can look at Spencer, but put him on a short leash. BTW, how on earth would a "NFL-calibre" Spencer work out cheaper than Grant?? Better to just keep Grant.
You know who I think wouldn't suffer from this? Strevie. Bet he'd still have that fire. But maybe the QB position is different from the WR position in this regard...
Jamaal Westerman. 5 years in the NFL. In 47 games with the Bombers, 118 DTs, 32 Sacks.
I don?t think the Bombers need any more receivers.
They are nit the best in the league but they block, run hard, and compliment each other,
We were still the best team in the league . We just lost the one game at the end! Lol!
I do think that those losing teams this year, Edmonton, Hamilton , Sask, Ottawa and Montreal will benefit from this last year.
Montreal seems set. Their defense looks great. Harris revived his career, they are good,
.
Edmonton lost a couple of fluke games. Cornelius looked good in the hilite reel in TSN.
And the Bombers? Can we defy the odds against massive injury, and be a force?
Quote from: the paw on December 04, 2022, 02:44:32 AM
According to a very confusingly organized 3down article, Lewis got $170k in hard money last year, but his $25k signing bonus was against the 2021 cap. So I read that as $195k total, so I think your estimate for this year is very close.
Lawler had $177k in hard money and a weird and massive roster bonus of $128k, putting total compensation at $305k. I expect him to drop back to about $200k this year.
By way of comparison, Ellingson was at $165k which would have been a steal if he had played the whole season. With that kind of budget we can compete for any free agent WR except the top 2 or 3.
Thanks for that.
In the same article, Lewis talks about regretting signing his last contract so early and about being more patient this time. Sounds like he regrets signing at the rate given a couple of the contracts that came after him.
Quote from: ModAdmin on December 04, 2022, 02:14:26 AM
Keep in mind both were healthy when they signed big contracts with BC and Edmonton. Both suffered injuries and missed chunks of the season. Lewis had a stellar full season and was runner up league MOP. Doubt Whitehead or Lawler would command those salaries next season.
That?s what I m thinking. If whitehead was $200k and Lawler $300k, both were hurt this year, Lewis has always been healthy and productive, I don?t see his salary demands being anything less than $250 and he?s worth it.
Quote from: Jesse on December 04, 2022, 01:28:06 PM
Thanks for that.
In the same article, Lewis talks about regretting signing his last contract so early and about being more patient this time. Sounds like he regrets signing at the rate given a couple of the contracts that came after him.
Dummy should keep his mouth shut, second guessing coaches or dissing them in hindsight is going to reduce some teams interest in him.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on December 04, 2022, 07:21:20 PM
Dummy should keep his mouth shut, second guessing coaches or dissing them in hindsight is going to reduce some teams interest in him.
He didn't say anything terrible or call anyone out.
"WR wants the ball" - shocking, lol.
The Bombers have not been an organization in recent years to go outside the roster in acquiring big paycheck veterans in free agency. The SMS is used to re-sign our own top players and possibly 1 or 2 mid range SMS players.
I don't see them looking at a player like Lawler if he doesn't fit the financial plan. Now if he wants to return to Winnipeg and wants a similar number to Ellingson then that's a different conversation. I don't see that happening but I also don't believe teams will be making him the offers he had in 2022.
Quote from: Blue In BC on December 05, 2022, 03:25:27 PM
The Bombers have not been an organization in recent years to go outside the roster in acquiring big paycheck veterans in free agency. The SMS is used to re-sign our own top players and possibly 1 or 2 mid range SMS players.
I don't see them looking at a player like Lawler if he doesn't fit the financial plan. Now if he wants to return to Winnipeg and wants a similar number to Ellingson then that's a different conversation. I don't see that happening but I also don't believe teams will be making him the offers he had in 2022.
Maybe but it's certainly possible we could resign him. Basically, we don't sign Ellingson and if we were to go with Kowalczuk over Couture and suddenly we have money for Lawler.
Lawler didn't do anything to hurt his value this year, other than getting hurt. When on the field, he was still one of the top WR in the league.
I can't see him signing for less than $200k with 9 teams needing a top WR.
I can't see us spending $200k on a WR... other than Demski, who I feel is a more impact player than Lawler, in our offense.
Quote from: theaardvark on December 05, 2022, 05:24:06 PM
Lawler didn't do anything to hurt his value this year, other than getting hurt. When on the field, he was still one of the top WR in the league.
I can't see him signing for less than $200k with 9 teams needing a top WR.
I can't see us spending $200k on a WR... other than Demski, who I feel is a more impact player than Lawler, in our offense.
Might be able to get him here for $220-250,000 and the allure of playoff money. Ellingston reportedly made $175 so it's not like it would be particularly hard, assuming we don't sign him. What Lawler received last year was a gross overpay and I'm sure not even Edmonton will do that again so a market correction is probably in the cards for him regardless.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on December 05, 2022, 05:05:14 PM
Maybe but it's certainly possible we could resign him. Basically, we don't sign Ellingson and if we were to go with Kowalczuk over Couture and suddenly we have money for Lawler.
I'm not saying we wouldn't have the money. I'm saying we wouldn't use it in that way trying to sign a receiver at the top of the food chain. Interestingly I think we might lose Couture as an SMS casualty.
As you suggested Lawler might see a market correction. No worries about his injuries in 2022. I think only Edmonton and Vancouver were in the chase to sign him at a ridiculous SMS hit last year. Obviously teams will be interested in his talents. Just guessing that the Lions were very happy with their receivers and he Elks have seen the error of their ways.
Teams that have spent SMS foolishly have not done well. D. Walker in Toronto, Reilly in BC are other examples of how that makes it more difficult to build the rest of the roster etc.
Players like Lewis or Lawler will land in a team looking for a # 1 receiver and might be willing to overpay.
Can't tell who that will be until some of the other free agents decide to move elsewhere.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on December 05, 2022, 05:05:14 PM
Maybe but it's certainly possible we could resign him. Basically, we don't sign Ellingson and if we were to go with Kowalczuk over Couture and suddenly we have money for Lawler.
Kowalczuk?
I don't see the Bombers re-signing Ellingson.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on December 05, 2022, 07:11:19 PM
Kowalczuk?
I don't see the Bombers re-signing Ellingson.
My bad, you're right. Chris Kolankowski
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on December 05, 2022, 07:11:19 PM
Kowalczuk?
I don't see the Bombers re-signing Ellingson.
It really depends on what his injury was and if it has a chance of reoccurring or was just a fluke. I think he probably has the motivation to want to return to this team and play one more year, if Zach really wants him, and he accepts a salary in the range of $150k he would be a very solid addition IMO. That would leave Schoen and Bailey as the wildcards, and I don't see there being a big league demand to overspend on Bailey, as a 3rd or 4th receiver.
As for Diontae Spencer, he's been added NY Jets to their PR.