2022 CFL Drafts May 3, 2022

[ModAdmin]

Please use this thread to discuss the results of the Global and College CFL Drafts on May 3rd.

The first two rounds, including commentary and in-depth analysis, will be broadcast beginning at 8 p.m. ET on TSN and RDS. RDS's draft show will also include a preview of the upcoming season. Exclusive coverage of Rounds 3-8 can be seen live on tsn.ca and the TSN app and the entire draft can be followed along on CFL.ca's Official Draft Tracker and CFL Social (@CFL).

Earlier in the day, the world's top talent is on full display as the 2022 CFL Global Draft gets underway at 12 p.m. ET. This can be watched live on CFL.ca and followed along on CFL.ca's Global Draft Tracker and CFL Social (@CFL).

Global consists of 3 rounds.

College consists of 8 rounds.

[GOLDMEMBER]

Cool!

[Ridermania]

Thoughts on Bombers trade with the Als, I like it.

https://www.cfl.ca/2022/05/03/bombers-als-swing-draft-day-trade/

[Sir Blue and Gold]

We needed depth behind Thomas as the first priority so it makes sense to get someone who is a little further along. Basically give up the 9th for him and Walters gets a bit of a sweetener by moving up in the second round. It makes sense logically as long as the player can provide decent depth.

[theaardvark]

If Lawson is ready to play and wants to come here, then this is a slam dunk.  Drop 4 picks down, and land a much needed NAT inside DL...

[Blue In BC]

Global punter: Hackett picked at # 6. Some NFL experience.

Global DB: Karamoko picked at # 13.

Global punter: Sleep -Dalton

[theaardvark]

So far, the Global draft is going:

At pick X, the XXXXXX are taking Australian Punter XXXX XXXXXXX

[theaardvark]

8 of 27 players selected were Australian Punters... including 2 (two) by the WBB...

I'm not sure what to think of this... I know people are questioning our kicking game... but drafting 2 punters?  I guess there are no kickers in the NAT draft...

Just checking the mock draft... one kicker, David Solie, projected taken in the 8th round... yeah, guessing the pickings are slim...

[TecnoGenius]

The funny thing is, punters are like the least likely position to be injured... so the only reason to have a GLOB punter is if you want him to replace your starter to save a NAT or DI slot.  That would be advantageous.

What does this spell for Leggs?  Certainly lighting a fire under his butt...

[ModAdmin]

With Pick #13 Winnipeg picks Tyrell Ford, DB, Waterloo

[Pete]

Wonder if we misread the draft,  not sure we trade away our pick if we thought deonte Knight, and or Zerr would be available

[Blue In BC]

With Pick #13 Winnipeg picks Tyrell Ford, DB, Waterloo

He's supposed to be a very good player. I would have thought a receiver would have been a higher necessity after the better DL and OL selections were taken.


Two hour broadcast and they only get to # 14 - # 15?

[GOLDMEMBER]

He's supposed to be a very good player. I would have thought a receiver would have been a higher necessity after the better DL and OL selections were taken.


Two hour broadcast and they only get to # 14 - # 15?

agreed far to much yapping not enough picking.

Ford seems intriguing. When we pick next?

[Blue In BC]

agreed far to much yapping not enough picking.

Ford seems intriguing. When we pick next?

Our next picks are # 38, # 47, # 56, #65 and finally # 74 ( last pick )

[ModAdmin]

#38 Cole Adamson, OL, 6' 5" 280 lbs. Manitoba

[ModAdmin]

#47 Chris Ciguineau DB, 6'3" 190 Ottawa

[ModAdmin]

#56 Jeremy Kapelanski DL 6'3" 250 lbs. Guelph

[ModAdmin]

#65 Cedrick Lavigne DB 6'0" 206 lbs. Carleton    

[ModAdmin]

#74 Konner Burtenshaw FB 5'11" 215 lbs. Queen's    

[ModAdmin]

Summary of Blue Bomber 2022 College Draft...

#13 Tyrell Ford, DB, 6"0" 180 lbs. Waterloo

#38 Cole Adamson, OL, 6' 5" 280 lbs. Manitoba

#47 Chris Ciguineau DB, 6'3" 190 lbs. Ottawa

#56 Jeremy Kapelanski DL 6'3" 250 lbs. Guelph

#65 Cedrick Lavigne DB 6'0" 206 lbs. Carleton   

#74 Konner Burtenshaw FB 5'11" 215 lbs. Queen's   

[Pigskin]

Argo's had a very good draft. Not sure what the Lions are going to do with all the DL they have.

[Pigskin]

Wonder if we misread the draft,  not sure we trade away our pick if we thought deonte Knight, and or Zerr would be available

Have to agree. Zerr would have looked good on our OL, 6"7" 330.

[GOLDMEMBER]

Lots of DBs!

[Blue In BC]

Summary of Blue Bomber 2022 College Draft...

#13 Tyrell Ford, DB, 6"0" 180 lbs. Waterloo

#38 Cole Adamson, OL, 6' 5" 280 lbs. Manitoba

#47 Chris Ciguineau DB, 6'3" 190 lbs. Ottawa

#56 Jeremy Kapelanski DL 6'3" 250 lbs. Guelph

#65 Cedrick Lavigne DB 6'0" 206 lbs. Carleton   

#74 Konner Burtenshaw FB 5'11" 215 lbs. Queen's   

Which of these players has eligibility left?

Adamson is a DT isn't he or does he have OL experience as well?

EDIT: I see in the analysis for Adamson that he might be a candidate to convert to OL. That may or may not be in the cards is we get Dobson or Eli etc back. However he may get some looks in TC on both sides of the ball.

[M.O.A.B.]

Adamson is going back to school in fall per the article.

[Blue In BC]

Based on our needs and our current roster I think Ford probably makes the 46 man roster. The others would seem to be fighting for PR spots or going back to school.

[dizzycamper]

Summary of Blue Bomber 2022 College Draft...

#13 Tyrell Ford, DB, 6"0" 180 lbs. Waterloo

#38 Cole Adamson, OL, 6' 5" 280 lbs. Manitoba

#47 Chris Ciguineau DB, 6'3" 190 lbs. Ottawa

#56 Jeremy Kapelanski DL 6'3" 250 lbs. Guelph

#65 Cedrick Lavigne DB 6'0" 206 lbs. Carleton   

#74 Konner Burtenshaw FB 5'11" 215 lbs. Queen's   

Honestly, something is up.... 2 separate drafts yesterday, 4 DB's picked, 4 Cdn DB's on the roster, Rene, it sounds like he is working towards a contract.. Cdn content rule change, perhaps (we now have Cdn guys who can play safety, corner & D-Line on defense)..

Wow and no, O-Line Pick? Hopefully, with todays presser, some kind of clarity, on prior year(s) picks. We are thin depth wise, here. I see the chatter here & over there, but not as comfortable as some are.

I like the trade for Lawson, but the cost was steep in my opinion. I hope he is ready to step in & contribute immediately. He was picked at #16 in the 2020 draft, he was mentioned similar to the likes of Cherry, Archibald & Federico of this years draft, back then. In 2020, I had hoped that we had picked him at 18, but our pick that year was a good as well.

I like the last 2 picks, Special Team guys with lots of upside #65 a long snapper as well & #74 a beast based on stuff from the Canadian Perspective Guys, keep your head type player... I'm happy that we went local with Cole Adamson and disappointed that we didn't draft Jared Beeksma.

[M.O.A.B.]

Rene ('21 draft pick) is already taking with the Bombers re contract. Won't be surprised to see 4-5 Canadian DBs in the gameday roster.

[Jesse]

Honestly, something is up.... 2 separate drafts yesterday, 4 DB's picked, 4 Cdn DB's on the roster, Rene, it sounds like he is working towards a contract.. Cdn content rule change, perhaps (we now have Cdn guys who can play safety, corner & D-Line on defense)..

Wow and no, O-Line Pick? Hopefully, with todays presser, some kind of clarity, on prior year(s) picks. We are thin depth wise, here. I see the chatter here & over there, but not as comfortable as some are.

I like the trade for Lawson, but the cost was steep in my opinion. I hope he is ready to step in & contribute immediately. He was picked at #16 in the 2020 draft, he was mentioned similar to the likes of Cherry, Archibald & Federico of this years draft, back then. In 2020, I had hoped that we had picked him at 18, but our pick that year was a good as well.

I like the last 2 picks, Special Team guys with lots of upside #65 a long snapper as well & #74 a beast based on stuff from the Canadian Perspective Guys, keep your head type player... I'm happy that we went local with Cole Adamson and disappointed that we didn't draft Jared Beeksma.

Could be expecting the 3 NI's on defence rule to come through soon.

[Blue In BC]

Could be expecting the 3 NI's on defence rule to come through soon.

Why would they dictate where Canadians need to play. The supply / demand issue already is difficult to deal with and this would make it worse. Drafting players that may or may not sign ( in a given year ) return to college, picking the most talented player versus filling a specific need!!!


Maybe something is up with Canadian content rule, ratio etc.

[Blue In BC]

Rene ('21 draft pick) is already taking with the Bombers re contract. Won't be surprised to see 4-5 Canadian DBs in the gameday roster.

Good to hear but that makes it even more curious as to why we drafted so many other DB's.

Is some of this the result of moving the hash marks and needing DB instead of LB types a WIL in some situations on defence?

[M.O.A.B.]

Good to hear but that makes it even more curious as to why we drafted so many other DB's.

Is some of this the result of moving the hash marks and needing DB instead of LB types a WIL in some situations on defence?

Not sure of that. Chris Jones spoke briefly of it yesterday. As I understand, moving the hash mark makes a need of a WIL body-type on the SAM position. I could be wrong though. Sometimes my ears deceives me or my comprehension. 

I'm guessing the Bombers are open on the idea of putting Canadian on the Safety and the Field CB spots. Hallett bros have the upper hand on the Safety spot, while Rene and Ford who both played corners will figure out on the other spot.

I think most of yesterday's picks will not make it after TC. The FB we picked last might have a higher chance in making the roster than the DBs/DLs picked ahead of him.
 

[Blue In BC]

Honestly, something is up.... 2 separate drafts yesterday, 4 DB's picked, 4 Cdn DB's on the roster, Rene, it sounds like he is working towards a contract.. Cdn content rule change, perhaps (we now have Cdn guys who can play safety, corner & D-Line on defense)..

Wow and no, O-Line Pick? Hopefully, with todays presser, some kind of clarity, on prior year(s) picks. We are thin depth wise, here. I see the chatter here & over there, but not as comfortable as some are.

I like the trade for Lawson, but the cost was steep in my opinion. I hope he is ready to step in & contribute immediately. He was picked at #16 in the 2020 draft, he was mentioned similar to the likes of Cherry, Archibald & Federico of this years draft, back then. In 2020, I had hoped that we had picked him at 18, but our pick that year was a good as well.

I like the last 2 picks, Special Team guys with lots of upside #65 a long snapper as well & #74 a beast based on stuff from the Canadian Perspective Guys, keep your head type player... I'm happy that we went local with Cole Adamson and disappointed that we didn't draft Jared Beeksma.

Interesting thought on the last two picks. The question as always is how do you add him to the roster? It has occurred to me that our current LS Benson might be considering retirement. He played very well but he's an older player and just won a Grey Cup last season.  

I agree with your thought on " something might be up " and I hope we get some clarification soon.

[Blue In BC]

Not sure of that. Chris Jones spoke briefly of it yesterday. As I understand, moving the hash mark makes a need of a WIL body-type on the SAM position. I could be wrong though. Sometimes my ears deceives me or my comprehension. 

I'm guessing the Bombers are open on the idea of putting Canadian on the Safety and the Field CB spots. Hallett bros have the upper hand on the Safety spot, while Rene and Ford who both played corners will figure out on the other spot.

I think most of yesterday's picks will not make it after TC.
 

SAM players need to be more pass coverage as well as run support. So they tend to have been DB's that could play DHB. Some are even capable of CB. That isn't true about WIL's as much and they may be more likely to need to cover a RB rather than a SB.

Since the CFL is primarily a passing league, the need is for coverage guys. Speed over size.

We currently only have 1 import and Mauro as extra LB types behind Wilson ( he's 225 lbs ). OTOH we have 22 DB's signed before drafting 4 or 5 more yesterday.


EDIT: The way I read what Jones said falls more into what I said. The WIL needs to be more like a SAM than the other way around

EDIT: Rene and Ford have size and DB speed that could be back ups at WIL in the new CFL now that hash marks are moved?

[dizzycamper]

Does anyone know what time Kyle Walters is meeting with the media folks?

[Pigskin]

Yes, the amount of Canadian DB's? Considering we drafted Kramdi in the 2nd round last year, Patrice in the 3rd, and Weekes in the 6th. In 2020 we took Hallett with our first pick. So yes we should be good with Canadian DB's for awhile.

[dizzycamper]

Yes, the amount of Canadian DB's? Considering we drafted Kramdi in the 2nd round last year, Patrice in the 3rd, and Weekes in the 6th. In 2020 we took Hallett with our first pick. So yes we should be good with Canadian DB's for awhile.

I believe Weekes has been released a little while ago... But, the rest are here or about to be signed (Rene).

[the paw]

Not sure of that. Chris Jones spoke briefly of it yesterday. As I understand, moving the hash mark makes a need of a WIL body-type on the SAM position. I could be wrong though. Sometimes my ears deceives me or my comprehension. 

I'm guessing the Bombers are open on the idea of putting Canadian on the Safety and the Field CB spots. Hallett bros have the upper hand on the Safety spot, while Rene and Ford who both played corners will figure out on the other spot.

I think most of yesterday's picks will not make it after TC. The FB we picked last might have a higher chance in making the roster than the DBs/DLs picked ahead of him.
 

I heard that too.  I understood it to mean that you can play a SAM type player in the WIL position more now with the new hashmarks, as he is more likely to be in coverage in more space.  

I think that unless the CBA changes ratio, we are going to stick with 6 starters on O and 1 on D.  With the trade for a DT to back up Thomas and no DE to replace Kongbo, I think the idea of a Canadian safety is a stop gap measure until Alexander is ready to return.  At least for this year.  

The other question that arises is while it is good news that the change in hash marks might get Wolitarsky more involved, that also means our lack of depth behind him and Demski may be exposed.  

[Pigskin]

With Patrice Rene signing, and Ford on his way, competition at TC for our Canadian DB's just got very interesting.

[Jesse]

Why would they dictate where Canadians need to play. The supply / demand issue already is difficult to deal with and this would make it worse. Drafting players that may or may not sign ( in a given year ) return to college, picking the most talented player versus filling a specific need!!!


Maybe something is up with Canadian content rule, ratio etc.

It's been brought up.

Just another way to articifially improve offensive by attempting to weaken the D.

[theaardvark]

It's been brought up.

Just another way to articifially improve offensive by attempting to weaken the D.

Or reduce the emphasis on NAT Oline... bringing NAT Oline salaries in line with other NAT starters... when 43% or more of your ratio is Oline, there is an issue.  Now that we have NAT players excelling at "skill" positions, they deserve both playing time and pay....

[Jesse]

On one hand, it's "fair" to split them up - gives equal opportunity to players of all positions.

On the other hand, teams should have the freedom to start players wherever they want.

[Blue In BC]

Or reduce the emphasis on NAT Oline... bringing NAT Oline salaries in line with other NAT starters... when 43% or more of your ratio is Oline, there is an issue.  Now that we have NAT players excelling at "skill" positions, they deserve both playing time and pay....

Don't agree. Teams have Canadian LB's, safeties, receivers all earning big $$ as well. Muamba, Lokombo, Metchie, Demski to name a few. We had A. Harris and he was earning $160K in 2021 as another example. Push the need for 3 Canadian starters on defence and you may have never seen him or Demski becoming offensive stars.

Any football team in any league has 5 OL, 5 receivers, 1 RB and at least 1 back up behind each of those players. OTOH there are only 4 DL, 3 LB's. So from a sheer math point of view there are more players supply / demand on offence than defence.

This is a " non sale " for me.

BTW: Nothing wrong with CFL offences.

[ModAdmin]

Blue Bombers 2022 CFL Draft summary

WINNIPEG, MB., May 3, 2022 - The Winnipeg Blue Bombers selected six players in the 2022 CFL Draft held tonight.  

The Blue Bombers began the night by selecting University of Waterloo defensive back Tyrell Ford with the 13th overall selection.

Ford (6-0, 188, University of Waterloo; born: March 3, 1998 in Niagara Falls, ON) played four seasons at the University of Waterloo and was a big part of the schools turn around since his arrival.  

Ford totaled six interceptions while playing for the Warriors and was a dynamic kick-returner. He ran the fastest 40-yard dash at the 2022 CFL combine with a time of 4.42. Ford was a 3-time OUA All-Star and was twice named Second Team All-Canadian.  

With their second pick in the draft, 38th overall, Winnipeg selected University of Manitoba defensive lineman Cole Adamson.

Adamson (6-5, 290, University of Manitoba; born: April 21, 1999 in Winnipeg, MB) stays home with the Blue Bombers after playing high school football with the Oak Park Raiders and the U Sports level with the Manitoba Bisons.  

Adamson became an instant contributor for the Bisons as a true freshman playing in eight games and starting six. Adamson had a strong campaign in his fourth year of eligibility as defensive tackle with Manitoba. His 19 total tackles were sixth on the Bison. He tallied 65 career tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and 4 passes defensed.  

In the fifth round, 47th overall, Winnipeg selected University of Ottawa defensive back Chris Ciguineau.

Ciguineau (6-3, 190, University of Ottawa; born: April 19, 1996 in Montreal, QC) played four years at the University of Ottawa, seeing more playing time each year. He finished his U Sports career not having let up a single touchdown in pass coverage, 17 total tackles, 6 passes defensed, and 1 interception returned for a touchdown.  

In the sixth round, 56th overall, Winnipeg selected University of Guelph defensive lineman Jeremy Kapelanski.

Kapelanski (6-3, 280, University of Guelph; born: April 13, 1998 in St. Jerome, ON) joins the Blue Bombers bringing plenty of experience and depth to the teams defensive line. The defensive lineman contributed to the Gryphons front four early and often. He broke out during the 2021 season accounting for 103 total tackles and 3 sacks.  

 In the seventh round, 65th overall, Winnipeg selected Carleton University defensive back Cedrick Lavigne.

Lavigne (6-1, 206, Carleton University; born: December 24, 1997 in Gatineau, QC) appeared in six games for the Gryphons this past season and made sure his presence was felt. The lockdown defensive back registered 2 interceptions and impressed teams at the 2022 CFL combine.  

 In the eighth round, 74th overall, Winnipeg selected Queen?s University fullback Konner Burtenshaw.

Burtenshaw (5-11, 215, Queen's University; born: January 4, 1996 in Amherstview, ON) joins the Blue Bombers after a five-year college career with the Golden Gaels. Burtenshaw was named to the 2017 OUA All-Rookie Team. He has shown throughout his college career that he has a knack for getting to the ball by leading his team in special team?s tackles. Burtenshaw also saw action on offence and found the endzone 3 times in 2021.  

[Pigskin]

Blue Bombers 2022 CFL Draft summary

WINNIPEG, MB., May 3, 2022 - The Winnipeg Blue Bombers selected six players in the 2022 CFL Draft held tonight.  

The Blue Bombers began the night by selecting University of Waterloo defensive back Tyrell Ford with the 13th overall selection.

Ford (6-0, 188, University of Waterloo; born: March 3, 1998 in Niagara Falls, ON) played four seasons at the University of Waterloo and was a big part of the schools turn around since his arrival.  

Ford totaled six interceptions while playing for the Warriors and was a dynamic kick-returner. He ran the fastest 40-yard dash at the 2022 CFL combine with a time of 4.42. Ford was a 3-time OUA All-Star and was twice named Second Team All-Canadian.  

With their second pick in the draft, 38th overall, Winnipeg selected University of Manitoba defensive lineman Cole Adamson.

Adamson (6-5, 290, University of Manitoba; born: April 21, 1999 in Winnipeg, MB) stays home with the Blue Bombers after playing high school football with the Oak Park Raiders and the U Sports level with the Manitoba Bisons.  

Adamson became an instant contributor for the Bisons as a true freshman playing in eight games and starting six. Adamson had a strong campaign in his fourth year of eligibility as defensive tackle with Manitoba. His 19 total tackles were sixth on the Bison. He tallied 65 career tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and 4 passes defensed.  

In the fifth round, 47th overall, Winnipeg selected University of Ottawa defensive back Chris Ciguineau.

Ciguineau (6-3, 190, University of Ottawa; born: April 19, 1996 in Montreal, QC) played four years at the University of Ottawa, seeing more playing time each year. He finished his U Sports career not having let up a single touchdown in pass coverage, 17 total tackles, 6 passes defensed, and 1 interception returned for a touchdown.  

In the sixth round, 56th overall, Winnipeg selected University of Guelph defensive lineman Jeremy Kapelanski.

Kapelanski (6-3, 280, University of Guelph; born: April 13, 1998 in St. Jerome, ON) joins the Blue Bombers bringing plenty of experience and depth to the teams defensive line. The defensive lineman contributed to the Gryphons front four early and often. He broke out during the 2021 season accounting for 103 total tackles and 3 sacks.  

 In the seventh round, 65th overall, Winnipeg selected Carleton University defensive back Cedrick Lavigne.

Lavigne (6-1, 206, Carleton University; born: December 24, 1997 in Gatineau, QC) appeared in six games for the Gryphons this past season and made sure his presence was felt. The lockdown defensive back registered 2 interceptions and impressed teams at the 2022 CFL combine.  

 In the eighth round, 74th overall, Winnipeg selected Queen?s University fullback Konner Burtenshaw.

Burtenshaw (5-11, 215, Queen's University; born: January 4, 1996 in Amherstview, ON) joins the Blue Bombers after a five-year college career with the Golden Gaels. Burtenshaw was named to the 2017 OUA All-Rookie Team. He has shown throughout his college career that he has a knack for getting to the ball by leading his team in special team?s tackles. Burtenshaw also saw action on offence and found the endzone 3 times in 2021.  

 I look at this group and keep thinking the Bombers must think they have a shot at getting Dobson to TC, or they have something cooking with Desjarlais if he doesn't make the NFL. Ford mite be the best best athlete in the draft. But our OL right now looks a little thin compared to last year.

[Blue In BC]

I look at this group and keep thinking the Bombers must think they have a shot at getting Dobson to TC, or they have something cooking with Desjarlais if he doesn't make the NFL. Ford mite be the best best athlete in the draft. But our OL right now looks a little thin compared to last year.

Yeah, I think they have a shot at getting Dobson back. Looking at all the players drafted this year across the league, there weren't many OL in the top group and our pick #'s weren't in our favour.

Only 12 OL drafted out of 74 picks. We might have had a chance picking at # 8 ( Zerr ) but not as much at # 13 and needed to trade for Lawson.  Only 3 OL were picked after our 2nd pick.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

On one hand, it's "fair" to split them up - gives equal opportunity to players of all positions.

On the other hand, teams should have the freedom to start players wherever they want.

Don't forget, Richie Hall wasn't thought of as a great DC until O'Shea reduced the ratio requirement of his D down to one Natl. on the field at a time.

[TecnoGenius]

Honestly, something is up.... 2 separate drafts yesterday, 4 DB's picked, 4 Cdn DB's on the roster, Rene, it sounds like he is working towards a contract.. Cdn content rule change, perhaps (we now have Cdn guys who can play safety, corner & D-Line on defense)..

Other than here and a brief couple of words in the draft show I haven't heard any "official" word that a ratio change is coming... can someone post more info or links?

If they institute it, I want full credit as I was the one to mention it here first like 6 months ago!    But I hope they remember I said you need to phase it in slowly: 1 NAT forced on D in year 1, 2 the next... I guess they can start at 2 in year 1 because basically every team already has 1.

They can't possibly mandate overnight in a CBA with no advance notice that all teams must field 3 NATs on D!!!  That would be horrifically bad for WPG and some other teams built around a high-NAT O.  Of course, if the goal is to unseat WPG due to the real threat of a threepeat, then mandating 3 NATs would do it.  It would be very unfair as some teams are built around a more-NAT D, and they get to benefit because of sheer luck?  It would be like F1 purposely undermining Merc (which they did).

[theaardvark]

I look at this group and keep thinking the Bombers must think they have a shot at getting Dobson to TC, or they have something cooking with Desjarlais if he doesn't make the NFL. Ford mite be the best best athlete in the draft. But our OL right now looks a little thin compared to last year.

With only 3 NAT Oline... you don't really need that much depth... I think we're fine.  In fact if we get both Dobson and Dejarlais showing up, we are in trouble...  

Other than here and a brief couple of words in the draft show I haven't heard any "official" word that a ratio change is coming... can someone post more info or links?

If they institute it, I want full credit as I was the one to mention it here first like 6 months ago!    But I hope they remember I said you need to phase it in slowly: 1 NAT forced on D in year 1, 2 the next... I guess they can start at 2 in year 1 because basically every team already has 1.

They can't possibly mandate overnight in a CBA with no advance notice that all teams must field 3 NATs on D!!!  That would be horrifically bad for WPG and some other teams built around a high-NAT O.  Of course, if the goal is to unseat WPG due to the real threat of a threepeat, then mandating 3 NATs would do it.  It would be very unfair as some teams are built around a more-NAT D, and they get to benefit because of sheer luck?  It would be like F1 purposely undermining Merc (which they did).

They could make the change in the CBA overnight, and I think we would be fine after this draft...

[TecnoGenius]

I look at this group and keep thinking the Bombers must think they have a shot at getting Dobson to TC, or they have something cooking with Desjarlais if he doesn't make the NFL. Ford mite be the best best athlete in the draft. But our OL right now looks a little thin compared to last year.

I'm pretty sure we are going to bring in Eli.  There really isn't much of a choice.  Note how Eli hasn't been picked up by anyone else.  (I bet) He's had a convo with KW, he knows to just hang on.

Without Eli we basically have no ready-to-field NAT backup.  We normally have 1-2 ready-to-field NAT backups, and 1-2 NAT dev guys / rookies.  Even if Eli can only play the 9 home games + 1 SSK away game, it is probably worth it.  As of right now it's still: Eli>Gray

We went from a surfeit of NAT OL in the past 3 seasons to a paucity.  If no one gets injured, we're golden... but...

[TecnoGenius]

Don't forget, Richie Hall wasn't thought of as a great DC until O'Shea reduced the ratio requirement of his D down to one Natl. on the field at a time.

Ya, but most teams have been trending the same way.  They hide a NAT at FS, and sometimes have a ratio-busting DL or LB.  Think Laurent or Henoc.  Does anyone know off hand what each team started at NAT on D in 2021?  I bet most had 2.  I bet none had 4.  I bet at least 1 other team had 1.

[TecnoGenius]

With only 3 NAT Oline... you don't really need that much depth... I think we're fine.  In fact if we get both Dobson and Dejarlais showing up, we are in trouble...  

They could make the change in the CBA overnight, and I think we would be fine after this draft...

Oh, I thought Desjar was gone for good.  I guess he could pull a Gray and come back promptly... Yes, you definitely hold a spot open for Desjar.  But you can't count on that.  Patriots of all teams aren't stupid: they wouldn't bring him there unless they saw potential worth keeping.  (Personally I think they are insane, but...)

Fine if they mandated 3 NAT D?  Nope, we'd be screwed.  Forget for a moment about the D side: what on earth do you do on the O side?  That means you *can* (i.e. will) sit 2 NAT O starters.  So Woli is benched as a backup.  Who else?  Put an IMP at OL guard?

Hmmm.... that would explain the slight FA splash we made at receiver... We could field both Saunders and Ellingson.  Hmm.

But it still screws us over as a 3-NAT-OL and NAT-RB and superstar Demski NAT SB centered team.  Our DB quality would suffer.  We've gathered the best NAT O talent in the league, and if they screw with the ratio in the CBA it only hurts us.

[Blue In BC]

With only 3 NAT Oline... you don't really need that much depth... I think we're fine.  In fact if we get both Dobson and Dejarlais showing up, we are in trouble...  

They could make the change in the CBA overnight, and I think we would be fine after this draft...

If Dobson and Desjarlais both show up then Kolankowski and Koczwara get bumped to PR, released or 1 as non dressed. It will be a while if ever that we see Desjarlais back IMO. At the very least SMS could be a large issue.

Changing the CBA over night idea and we'd be fine? ARE YOU NUTS?

Most of the import OL look to be OT types and they're rookies. Switching to even one more import on the OL could get Collaros injured.

We certainly don't want to switch to an import RB or take Demski off the field. Ratio not with standing pulling Wolitarsky might be a choice but then we'd have 3 changes at receiver.

What Canadian is going to start and at the expense of who??

[theaardvark]

I'm pretty sure we are going to bring in Eli.  There really isn't much of a choice.  Note how Eli hasn't been picked up by anyone else.  (I bet) He's had a convo with KW, he knows to just hang on.

Without Eli we basically have no ready-to-field NAT backup.  We normally have 1-2 ready-to-field NAT backups, and 1-2 NAT dev guys / rookies.  Even if Eli can only play the 9 home games + 1 SSK away game, it is probably worth it.  As of right now it's still: Eli>Gray

We went from a surfeit of NAT OL in the past 3 seasons to a paucity.  If no one gets injured, we're golden... but...

59      Couture, Michael   OL   N   6'4   305   28   Simon Fraser
68      Gray, Geoff   OL   N   6'6   307   27   Manitoba
   Koczwara, Ben   OL   N   6'3   291   25   Waterloo
67      Kolankowski, Chris   OL   N   6'1   305   30   York
53      Neufeld, Patrick   OL   N   6'6   311   33   Saskatchewan


for 3 spots... plus Dobson, and/or Dejarlais...

Loved what Eli brought, and his upside, but it sounds like he has moved on again... rumours, of course... and vaccine status shouldn't be an issue this year... but I don't think we will miss him.  

In a pinch, there are always the Int players that can fill in whjen you are as deep as we are with NAT starters...

[Blue In BC]

59      Couture, Michael   OL   N   6'4   305   28   Simon Fraser
68      Gray, Geoff   OL   N   6'6   307   27   Manitoba
   Koczwara, Ben   OL   N   6'3   291   25   Waterloo
67      Kolankowski, Chris   OL   N   6'1   305   30   York
53      Neufeld, Patrick   OL   N   6'6   311   33   Saskatchewan


for 3 spots... plus Dobson, and/or Dejarlais...

Loved what Eli brought, and his upside, but it sounds like he has moved on again... rumours, of course... and vaccine status shouldn't be an issue this year... but I don't think we will miss him.  

In a pinch, there are always the Int players that can fill in whjen you are as deep as we are with NAT starters...

Eli was on the 45 AR while Gray spent most of the season as the non dressed reserve.

You go on keep thinking that but we are not deep with Nat starters. You have a lot of confidence in a bunch of pure rookies and 2nd year players that have never started or done anything besides ST's.

It's why we traded with the Als for a DT.

[Pigskin]

CFL FA tracker still shows Cody Speller listed as a FA. Cody played well when he was here.

[TecnoGenius]

CFL FA tracker still shows Cody Speller listed as a FA. Cody played well when he was here.

Oooh.  Nice find.  Except he spent all of 2021 in the tub, no?  Teams avoiding an injury-prone guard?  Bet he won't come cheap, either.  In a pinch, I bet any team would get him on the phone.

BinBC is right, Aards, the 2 K--W-- guys are totally green.  We have our starters, that's it.  Sure, a who-knows could come off the bench and be the next Chungh.  But don't bet on it.  And Gray might never be a legit every-game #1 starter (remains to be seen).

But if we have a (secret) tight line on Eli and/or Desjar then we should be good.  If...

[blue_gold_84]

CFL FA tracker still shows Cody Speller listed as a FA. Cody played well when he was here.

FWIW, he was suspended by the Argos before the 2021 season and never played.

[Pigskin]

FWIW, he was suspended by the Argos before the 2021 season and never played.

Correct, July 16th, 2021 the Argo's suspended him.  So I am thinking it has nothing to do with an injury. Probably more of a vaccination issue.

[TecnoGenius]

Correct, July 16th, 2021 the Argo's suspended him.  So I am thinking it has nothing to do with an injury. Probably more of a vaccination issue.

Makes no sense if the suspension was before the season.  The flight mandates weren't a thing until later.

Perhaps he was AWOL or some other off-field nonsense?  Weird no story ever came out about this.  He seemed solid during his time here.  Maybe he didn't want to play in double blue?  Did he pull a D.Durant and walk away with a big free signing bonus?  Too bad we may never know.

Spooner also fell off the radar almost immediately after leaving WPG.  Guess OL should stay in WPG if they want a good career!! 

[M.O.A.B.]

Makes no sense if the suspension was before the season.  The flight mandates weren't a thing until later.

Perhaps he was AWOL or some other off-field nonsense?  Weird no story ever came out about this.  He seemed solid during his time here.  Maybe he didn't want to play in double blue?  Did he pull a D.Durant and walk away with a big free signing bonus?  Too bad we may never know.

Spooner also fell off the radar almost immediately after leaving WPG.  Guess OL should stay in WPG if they want a good career!! 

Was LaBatte also placed in suspended list because of vaccine / quarantine rules issue? Maybe it's the same reason for Speller. I believe there are number of players who didnt like the rules placed by the league then.

[Pigskin]

There was also an OL in EE that wasn't vaccinated, but I think EE just terminated him.

Jacob Ruby. Was sand bagging tonight and his name came up.

[Jesse]

Was LaBatte also placed in suspended list because of vaccine / quarantine rules issue? Maybe it's the same reason for Speller. I believe there are number of players who didnt like the rules placed by the league then.

Labatte said he has no interest in coming back under covid-era restrictions.

May or may not mean he was vaccinated, but he said it was due to other factors.