Blue Bombers Forum
May 29, 2023, 04:29:19 AM *
Welcome, Guest. Please login or register.

Login with username, password and session length
News:
 
   Home   Help Login Register  
Pages: 1 2 3 ... 5 [All]
  Print  
Author Topic: Kongbo signs in BC  (Read 1418 times)
Pete
Sr. Member
****
Posts: 486


« on: May 21, 2023, 08:49:49 PM »

BC Lions have signed Jonathan Kongbo. I know we have cap issues but this seems like a missed opportunity to me
Logged
Jesse
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 15208



« Reply #1 on: May 21, 2023, 09:41:14 PM »

This is....disappointing...
Logged

My wife is amazing!
Throw Long Bannatyne
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9131



« Reply #2 on: May 21, 2023, 09:45:25 PM »

BC Lions have signed Jonathan Kongbo. I know we have cap issues but this seems like a missed opportunity to me

I didn't even know he was available, don't know how the Bombers lost out on re-signing him and I don't think he has any BC roots.
Logged
the paw
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 4742


« Reply #3 on: May 21, 2023, 09:48:27 PM »

I didn't even know he was available, don't know how the Bombers lost out on re-signing him and I don't think he has any BC roots.

Went to high school in Surrey.

He must have come available fairly recently, there was no word he was available.  It looms like he made Lemon redundant.
Logged

grab grass 'n growl
RyGuy13
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 766


GO BLUE GO!!!


« Reply #4 on: May 21, 2023, 09:50:37 PM »

Can?t always get them all back. Maybe he sees a better chance being an every down player in BC opposed to rotational here? Or maybe we are just that up there in the cap we couldn?t afford him? Good football player regardless.
Logged

At SB, #85..MILT STEEEGAAALLLL
The Zipp
Global Moderator
*****
Posts: 15000


Who gives a flying Buck...


« Reply #5 on: May 21, 2023, 10:26:06 PM »

That stinks...

Desjarlais and now Kongbo...guess he doesn't want a playoff cheque.
Logged
Sir Blue and Gold
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 23312



« Reply #6 on: May 21, 2023, 10:56:19 PM »

Can't afford everybody.
Logged
pjrocksmb
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 12175


#1D+ Hall is boss


« Reply #7 on: May 21, 2023, 11:19:04 PM »

Happy to see another great athlete return to our league.  Will be a pleasure to watch.
Logged

I don't follow the No Fun League b/c I live in Canada and love the CFL
Throw Long Bannatyne
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9131



« Reply #8 on: May 21, 2023, 11:20:06 PM »

Can't afford everybody.

You're right, Walters decided to spend an excess of money on an Import receiver, in doing so he left them $$ short in an area of real need.  Maybe newly acquired Anthony Bennett will be every bit as good as Kongbo and it will be a wash, but I'd be surprised if he's able to make that level of impact this season.
Logged
Pete
Sr. Member
****
Posts: 486


« Reply #9 on: May 21, 2023, 11:37:47 PM »

Unfortunately we don't know what negotiations, if any went on with Kongbo. Signing him probably meant we had to drop someone else. Although if given a choice between jeffcoat and kongbo I would have been very tempted due to the age and injury history of Jefferson.
« Last Edit: May 22, 2023, 01:08:09 AM by Pete » Logged
Throw Long Bannatyne
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9131



« Reply #10 on: May 22, 2023, 12:51:56 AM »

Unfortunately we don't know what negotiations, if any went on with Kongbo. Signing him probably meant we had to drop someone else. Although if given a choice between jefferson and kongbo I would have been very tempted due to the age and injury history of Jefferson.

I honestly can't remember Willie ever missing a game due to injury, you might be referring to Jeffcoat but Kongbo is only a supplement to either Jeff's performance, not a replacement.
Logged
Pete
Sr. Member
****
Posts: 486


« Reply #11 on: May 22, 2023, 01:09:51 AM »

I honestly can't remember Willie ever missing a game due to injury, you might be referring to Jeffcoat but Kongbo is only a supplement to either Jeff's performance, not a replacement.
you're right - corrected it, thanks!. I think with the growth Kongbo is likely to have received with his nfl experience he could have been a replacement for Jeffcoat. If healthy Jeffcoat is a great end but like the man says one of the best abilities is availability.
« Last Edit: May 22, 2023, 01:22:46 AM by Pete » Logged
BLUEBOMBER
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 5872



« Reply #12 on: May 22, 2023, 01:56:38 AM »

We can't get everyone..  getting Lawler and Castillo back in the fold was way way more important.
Logged
Pigskin
Global Moderator
*****
Posts: 9887



« Reply #13 on: May 22, 2023, 03:23:33 AM »

BC already had a number of good Canadian DL. With Kongbo coming in, BC will  probably have to make a few roster moves to stay close to the cap.
« Last Edit: May 22, 2023, 03:32:05 AM by Pigskin » Logged

Don't go through life looking in the rearview mirror.
Blue In BC
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 29278


« Reply #14 on: May 22, 2023, 12:01:14 PM »

Well that sucks. Glad to see him back in the CFL but it would have been great getting him back in Winnipeg.

It's not clear if he'll get more reps in Vancouver. They are loaded with Canadian's on defence.
Logged

2019 Grey Cup Champions
DM83
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 8472


« Reply #15 on: May 22, 2023, 01:27:28 PM »

Why is a reference to salary cap relevant when a third of the league ignores it?   
Logged
Throw Long Bannatyne
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9131



« Reply #16 on: May 22, 2023, 01:56:05 PM »

BC already had a number of good Canadian DL. With Kongbo coming in, BC will  probably have to make a few roster moves to stay close to the cap.

The Lions also cut Shawn Lemon who qualifies as a Fake Natl. at the same time they signed Kongbo.
Logged
Blue In BC
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 29278


« Reply #17 on: May 22, 2023, 02:18:58 PM »

The Lions also cut Shawn Lemon who qualifies as a Fake Natl. at the same time they signed Kongbo.

Yes but that only means Lemon could have been on the field 49% of the time. Kongbo could be on the field more especially if there are any injuries etc.

Lemon would have been a DI at best and this changes the Lions options for their DI's.

He's played for 6 CFL teams and changed teams on a nearly seasonal basis. Montreal, Hamilton and Winnipeg are the only teams he hasn't played for yet. I always found that interesting since it was Winnipeg that brought him to the CFL but he didn't / wouldn't report for some reason.

« Last Edit: May 22, 2023, 02:22:19 PM by Blue In BC » Logged

2019 Grey Cup Champions
kkc60
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 4860


« Reply #18 on: May 22, 2023, 03:39:51 PM »

sucks about kongbo. makes sense, he would want to have a shot at more playing time. that being said, if he could have replaced Jeffcoat in the future, that would?ve been nice with Bennett already here
Logged
TecnoGenius
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 7588



« Reply #19 on: May 22, 2023, 07:05:21 PM »

I still don't like how the CFL-NFL-CFL system works.  It always seems to leave a bad taste in my mouth.  I think it should be that if you do the NFL thing and return that your last CFL team should get the right of first refusal.  Yes, regardless of CFL signing status at the time.

WPG should have been given first shot at Desjar and Kongbo (and Henoc, and...).  Maybe if they were free agents they can get offers at other CFL teams but WPG would have the right to match that offer and keep the player.

We could have used Kongbo for sure.  Our DL depth is the weakest link.  We still don't have the personnel to do the 2019 4-DE cheetah.

How about Lemonator if no one picks him up and he's uber cheap?  Dude has a good attitude and lots of experience and counts as FAKENAT.
Logged

Never go full Rider!
theaardvark
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 31469



« Reply #20 on: May 22, 2023, 07:47:43 PM »

We released Kongbo from valid contracts twice to pursue NFL options.  But he is "BC homegrown" according to the reports of his signing out there.  We got some good years out of him, but he was free to choose where to sign.

Loved him in rotation with the Jeffs and Hansen, and I'm sure he loved playing here under Hall and Osh, but "going home" usually trumps a lot. 
Logged

Unabashed positron.  Blue koolaid in my fridge.  I wear my blue sunglasses at night.  Homer, d'oh.
Jesse
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 15208



« Reply #21 on: May 22, 2023, 09:32:08 PM »

I still don't like how the CFL-NFL-CFL system works.  It always seems to leave a bad taste in my mouth.  I think it should be that if you do the NFL thing and return that your last CFL team should get the right of first refusal.  Yes, regardless of CFL signing status at the time.

WPG should have been given first shot at Desjar and Kongbo (and Henoc, and...).  Maybe if they were free agents they can get offers at other CFL teams but WPG would have the right to match that offer and keep the player.

We could have used Kongbo for sure.  Our DL depth is the weakest link.  We still don't have the personnel to do the 2019 4-DE cheetah.

How about Lemonator if no one picks him up and he's uber cheap?  Dude has a good attitude and lots of experience and counts as FAKENAT.


Why would we have first shot at free agents? It doesn't make any sense.
Logged

My wife is amazing!
TecnoGenius
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 7588



« Reply #22 on: May 22, 2023, 09:42:25 PM »

Why would we have first shot at free agents? It doesn't make any sense.

Ya, you always tell me.  But look how many people are like "why couldn't returning player X sign in WPG?".

Since we don't know much (yet?) about Kongbo, it could be he never even talked to WPG before signing in BC.  All legit and legal and fine, but it irks me.
Logged

Never go full Rider!
Blue In BC
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 29278


« Reply #23 on: May 22, 2023, 09:45:01 PM »

I still don't like how the CFL-NFL-CFL system works.  It always seems to leave a bad taste in my mouth.  I think it should be that if you do the NFL thing and return that your last CFL team should get the right of first refusal.  Yes, regardless of CFL signing status at the time.

WPG should have been given first shot at Desjar and Kongbo (and Henoc, and...).  Maybe if they were free agents they can get offers at other CFL teams but WPG would have the right to match that offer and keep the player.

We could have used Kongbo for sure.  Our DL depth is the weakest link.  We still don't have the personnel to do the 2019 4-DE cheetah.

How about Lemonator if no one picks him up and he's uber cheap?  Dude has a good attitude and lots of experience and counts as FAKENAT.


Even if Lemon is cheap he'd take a spot as a DI. If one of the rookies looks good, that might be short term gain by Lemon on the AR. OTOH, if that rookie accepts a PR spot initially then perhaps that could work.

The Fakenat gives us an advantage from a rotational point of view, potentially.
Logged

2019 Grey Cup Champions
theaardvark
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 31469



« Reply #24 on: May 23, 2023, 01:11:51 PM »

Why would we have first shot at free agents? It doesn't make any sense.

Not all FA, but FA that are "released" from valid contracts to pursue NFL opportunities.  These should have some form of RFA status, like an opportunity to match..
Logged

Unabashed positron.  Blue koolaid in my fridge.  I wear my blue sunglasses at night.  Homer, d'oh.
Sir Blue and Gold
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 23312



« Reply #25 on: May 23, 2023, 01:33:31 PM »

Not all FA, but FA that are "released" from valid contracts to pursue NFL opportunities.  These should have some form of RFA status, like an opportunity to match..

Redistribution of talent is good. Isn't it? Or should we say what goes around comes around? Or should we just not forget so quickly?

https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/bc-lions-adam-bighill-release-nfl
https://www.sportsnet.ca/football/cfl/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-linebacker-adam-bighill-one-year-deal/
« Last Edit: May 23, 2023, 01:36:30 PM by Sir Blue and Gold » Logged
Jesse
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 15208



« Reply #26 on: May 23, 2023, 02:13:20 PM »

Not all FA, but FA that are "released" from valid contracts to pursue NFL opportunities.  These should have some form of RFA status, like an opportunity to match..

Every team does, that's the beauty of FA.
Logged

My wife is amazing!
Throw Long Bannatyne
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9131



« Reply #27 on: May 23, 2023, 04:04:29 PM »

During yesterday's presser O'Shea didn't seem to know if they pursued Kongbo or not. I would think he would be more in the loop on critical player movement but perhaps he is playing less of a role in player selection than he did during their rebuilding years.  As for Walters I suspect he got outbid, plus Kongbo having Surrey roots probably helped determine his destination.
Logged
blue_or_die
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9044



« Reply #28 on: May 23, 2023, 05:56:32 PM »

Every team does, that's the beauty of FA.

I could be wrong on this, but it was my understanding that RFA status (like in e.g. hockey) formally allows teams to bid on a player's services regardless of the wishes of the player. So if Kongbo for example knew he wanted to play in BC, an RFA status wouldn't allow him to sign until the Bombers had a chance to try and negotiate.
Logged

Back2Back Grey Cup champs and WE ARE LIT
blue_gold_84
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 30125


For The W


« Reply #29 on: May 23, 2023, 06:07:30 PM »

You're right, Walters decided to spend an excess of money on an Import receiver, in doing so he left them $$ short in an area of real need.

Easy to say this with the gift of hindsight. Rationally, however, it's nonsense.
Logged

#forthew

Slava Ukraini!
blue_gold_84
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 30125


For The W


« Reply #30 on: May 23, 2023, 06:08:08 PM »

I could be wrong on this, but it was my understanding that RFA status (like in e.g. hockey) formally allows teams to bid on a player's services regardless of the wishes of the player. So if Kongbo for example knew he wanted to play in BC, an RFA status wouldn't allow him to sign until the Bombers had a chance to try and negotiate.

Since when is there different statuses applied to free agents in the CFL?
Logged

#forthew

Slava Ukraini!
Jesse
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 15208



« Reply #31 on: May 23, 2023, 06:20:52 PM »

I could be wrong on this, but it was my understanding that RFA status (like in e.g. hockey) formally allows teams to bid on a player's services regardless of the wishes of the player. So if Kongbo for example knew he wanted to play in BC, an RFA status wouldn't allow him to sign until the Bombers had a chance to try and negotiate.

For sure it would. I was speaking generally, as I'm sure Walters at least inquired what it would take but bowed out due to cost/benefit. This is the consequence of signing Lawler.

I don't think a RFA deal would apply to Kongbo, even if it did exist. We may have released him in 2019 (4 years ago), but we re-signed him to a 1 year deal in 2021. He is a Free Agent.
Logged

My wife is amazing!
blue_or_die
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9044



« Reply #32 on: May 23, 2023, 07:02:49 PM »

Since when is there different statuses applied to free agents in the CFL?

Since never?

For sure it would. I was speaking generally, as I'm sure Walters at least inquired what it would take but bowed out due to cost/benefit. This is the consequence of signing Lawler.

I don't think a RFA deal would apply to Kongbo, even if it did exist. We may have released him in 2019 (4 years ago), but we re-signed him to a 1 year deal in 2021. He is a Free Agent.

Sure, I'm also speaking more generally here as well. If a contract expires and a player goes to the NFL and comes back, their contract status is the same regardless- which is, there is none. But if it's a "handshake release" it would be nice to have contractual assurance vs just a handshake.

And re the first line of your post, I actually made the assumption (right or wrong) that Kongbo wanted to "go home" and just signed whatever BC was offering and didn't even try other teams. Depends what his convictions are I guess, but it doesn't necessarily all come down to the rational economics of going to the highest bidder
Logged

Back2Back Grey Cup champs and WE ARE LIT
Throw Long Bannatyne
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9131



« Reply #33 on: May 23, 2023, 07:28:05 PM »

Since never?

Sure, I'm also speaking more generally here as well. If a contract expires and a player goes to the NFL and comes back, their contract status is the same regardless- which is, there is none. But if it's a "handshake release" it would be nice to have contractual assurance vs just a handshake.

And re the first line of your post, I actually made the assumption (right or wrong) that Kongbo wanted to "go home" and just signed whatever BC was offering and didn't even try other teams. Depends what his convictions are I guess, but it doesn't necessarily all come down to the rational economics of going to the highest bidder

I looked over the Lions website as well as 3DN, as far as I can see Kongbo hasn't been interviewed recently, so it's hard to say why he decided to sign with the Lions.  Doubt we'll ever know, he doesn't seem to be a talkative guy.
Logged
blue_gold_84
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 30125


For The W


« Reply #34 on: May 23, 2023, 07:35:15 PM »

With Richardson being released, the Lions had some money freed up to address that loss on the D-line. Kongbo shook loose and they picked him up as a result. My zany theory, anyway.

It's not rocket appliances.
Logged

#forthew

Slava Ukraini!
Throw Long Bannatyne
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9131



« Reply #35 on: May 23, 2023, 07:44:12 PM »

Easy to say this with the gift of hindsight. Rationally, however, it's nonsense.

Not so sure about that, it's practical money management, excessive over spending on one player is going to leave them short all down the line.  I was thinking about Bailey's future the other day, poor guy is never going to get his bump in pay as long as Schoen, Lawler and Demski are lined up in front of him.  Whether they can afford to retain both Lawler and Schoen next season is certainly questionable.
Logged
Throw Long Bannatyne
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9131



« Reply #36 on: May 23, 2023, 07:45:39 PM »

With Richardson being released, the Lions had some money freed up to address that loss on the D-line. Kongbo shook loose and they picked him up as a result. My zany theory, anyway.

It's not rocket appliances.

No more Lemon, Kongbo gets lemonade.
Logged
blue_or_die
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9044



« Reply #37 on: May 23, 2023, 07:46:08 PM »

With Richardson being released, the Lions had some money freed up to address that loss on the D-line. Kongbo shook loose and they picked him up as a result. My zany theory, anyway.

It's not rocket appliances.

I don't think anyone is questioning why the Lions picked him up, but rather if we missed out because we weren't interested, didn't have the money, or he didn't consult us, etc.
Logged

Back2Back Grey Cup champs and WE ARE LIT
theaardvark
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 31469



« Reply #38 on: May 23, 2023, 09:53:49 PM »

I could be wrong on this, but it was my understanding that RFA status (like in e.g. hockey) formally allows teams to bid on a player's services regardless of the wishes of the player. So if Kongbo for example knew he wanted to play in BC, an RFA status wouldn't allow him to sign until the Bombers had a chance to try and negotiate.

That's what I would like to see.  A hockey RFA that gives an RFA player the rights to negotiate with any team, but after agreeing to a contract, the RFA team gets a chance to match. 

IIRC, if a player gets released from an ELC to pursue NFL aspirations, they remain property of the original team until the ELC is completed in full.  Not sure if that is just for drafted NATs, but pretty sure that's what happened after Kongbo's first NFL shot... why he came back here.

I'd like to see that extended to any player that does not complete their full contract, being released early.  WFC never hesitates to release players with legit NFL offers, but this would make every GM on board with releasing players ahead of contracts ending.
Logged

Unabashed positron.  Blue koolaid in my fridge.  I wear my blue sunglasses at night.  Homer, d'oh.
Sir Blue and Gold
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 23312



« Reply #39 on: May 24, 2023, 02:36:06 AM »

We're paying our starting defensive ends a lot of cash. It's hard to pay three of them. Kongbo was cheap while he was here. The thing is, we don't need him, we just need an effective rotational end. Kongbo being Canadian made it somewhat easier to fit him on the roster but we started a third American defensive end plenty last year. The problem was the options we had didn't really work out. This year, let's hope for better results from the scouts on that front.
Logged
Throw Long Bannatyne
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9131



« Reply #40 on: May 24, 2023, 04:16:35 AM »

We're paying our starting defensive ends a lot of cash. It's hard to pay three of them. Kongbo was cheap while he was here. The thing is, we don't need him, we just need an effective rotational end. Kongbo being Canadian made it somewhat easier to fit him on the roster but we started a third American defensive end plenty last year. The problem was the options we had didn't really work out. This year, let's hope for better results from the scouts on that front.

Unfortunately slim pickins on the DE front, Bennet might work out, other than him there are only 2-3 other DE's on the roster fighting to fill the 2 backup spots with Hansen out.  I wouldn't be terribly surprised if the Ti-Cats are forced to cut CEDRIC Wilcots and the Bombers pick him back up, which would make Darby a free acquisition.  The Lions could also attempt to go with an all Natl. D-line this season, which could lead to some potential fallout of quality players.
Logged
blue_gold_84
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 30125


For The W


« Reply #41 on: May 24, 2023, 12:45:32 PM »

Not so sure about that, it's practical money management, excessive over spending on one player is going to leave them short all down the line.  I was thinking about Bailey's future the other day, poor guy is never going to get his bump in pay as long as Schoen, Lawler and Demski are lined up in front of him.  Whether they can afford to retain both Lawler and Schoen next season is certainly questionable.

You should be. Lawler was a pending FA who signed here more than three months ago, when Kongbo was still under contract with the Denver Broncos. You sign the players who are available - full stop.

What does Bailey have to do with any of this? He re-signed here and took a heavy discount on his own accord. Nobody put a gun to his head.

Also: next season is irrelevant right now.

I don't think anyone is questioning why the Lions picked him up, but rather if we missed out because we weren't interested, didn't have the money, or he didn't consult us, etc.

I'm guessing money was the driving factor.
« Last Edit: May 24, 2023, 12:47:47 PM by blue_gold_84 » Logged

#forthew

Slava Ukraini!
Blue In BC
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 29278


« Reply #42 on: May 24, 2023, 02:26:35 PM »

We're paying our starting defensive ends a lot of cash. It's hard to pay three of them. Kongbo was cheap while he was here. The thing is, we don't need him, we just need an effective rotational end. Kongbo being Canadian made it somewhat easier to fit him on the roster but we started a third American defensive end plenty last year. The problem was the options we had didn't really work out. This year, let's hope for better results from the scouts on that front.

It's the ratio aspect that was more critical. Bombers start 11 imports on defence. Both Global players have been on defence and 3 of our DI's have been on defence. We can use Gauthier or Briggs at times but Kongbo would have seen more rotation.

SMS and the desire of any player may be closer to home. Bombers may have offered him more than the Lions or perhaps made no offer at all. Don't know.  Any Canadian that can be used heavily in rotation is a valuable commodity but as has been mentioned, you can't win them all.
Logged

2019 Grey Cup Champions
Sir Blue and Gold
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 23312



« Reply #43 on: May 24, 2023, 03:03:59 PM »

It's the ratio aspect that was more critical. Bombers start 11 imports on defence. Both Global players have been on defence and 3 of our DI's have been on defence. We can use Gauthier or Briggs at times but Kongbo would have seen more rotation.

SMS and the desire of any player may be closer to home. Bombers may have offered him more than the Lions or perhaps made no offer at all. Don't know.  Any Canadian that can be used heavily in rotation is a valuable commodity but as has been mentioned, you can't win them all.

In this case, it actually isn't. Certainly it's not 'more critical'. What made Kongbo good was that he was effective, first and foremost. We have good Canadian talent and depth, particularly on offense, where we've focused our Canadian efforts. We can certainly roster a DI DE if he contributes. The issue we had last year was that none of them were very good, and therefore it made it hard to continue to justify a DE DI. If we have another American who can get pressure from the end on a fairly reliable basis, then we'll be doing that.
Logged
DM83
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 8472


« Reply #44 on: May 24, 2023, 04:11:27 PM »

Inflation, bankruptcies, co-vid fall out could affect a young man's lifestyle, and even an old man as well(me).

If Kongbo is from BC....Then sure why not sign where you have support from your family.
Logged
Blue In BC
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 29278


« Reply #45 on: May 24, 2023, 04:13:04 PM »

Inflation, bankruptcies, co-vid fall out could affect a young man's lifestyle, and even an old man as well(me).

If Kongbo is from BC....Then sure why not sign where you have support from your family.

He might also be able to live at home and reduce his costs and live a better environment
Logged

2019 Grey Cup Champions
blue_gold_84
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 30125


For The W


« Reply #46 on: May 24, 2023, 04:21:30 PM »

FWIW, he did grow up in the lower mainland when his family immigrated here.
Logged

#forthew

Slava Ukraini!
Pigskin
Global Moderator
*****
Posts: 9887



« Reply #47 on: May 24, 2023, 04:38:16 PM »

Inflation, bankruptcies, co-vid fall out could affect a young man's lifestyle, and even an old man as well(me).

If Kongbo is from BC....Then sure why not sign where you have support from your family.

I know right now in Winnipeg it's hard to find apartments. One of the Bombers asked me over the weekend if I had any apartments coming open at the end of the month. However with that massive fire, there will be a long wait to get into anything at this time. When he told me who the player or players were, we decided to offer our basement suite. We met one of the players yesterday and he will be moving tonight. I know Kyrie Wilson has been doing this for a few years now.
Logged

Don't go through life looking in the rearview mirror.
blue_or_die
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9044



« Reply #48 on: May 24, 2023, 07:58:31 PM »

We're paying our starting defensive ends a lot of cash. It's hard to pay three of them. Kongbo was cheap while he was here. The thing is, we don't need him, we just need an effective rotational end. Kongbo being Canadian made it somewhat easier to fit him on the roster but we started a third American defensive end plenty last year. The problem was the options we had didn't really work out. This year, let's hope for better results from the scouts on that front.

I think many viewed Kongbo as a possible future star Canadian starting DE for the Bombers and so not being able to continue to groom him under the Jeffs sucks. I agree that as a rotational/backup it was more of a "nice to have", but we have to covet our high ceiling Canadians.
Logged

Back2Back Grey Cup champs and WE ARE LIT
TecnoGenius
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 7588



« Reply #49 on: May 25, 2023, 03:16:31 AM »

But if it's a "handshake release" it would be nice to have contractual assurance vs just a handshake.

That's what I would like to see.  A hockey RFA that gives an RFA player the rights to negotiate with any team, but after agreeing to a contract, the RFA team gets a chance to match

This is exactly what I was getting at.  Interesting that other leagues have created similar things.  Any league that is a notch "under" a "better" league (CFL vs NFL) could use such a limitation.  It would also help with the "player retention / turnover" problem the fans & league are always moaning about.  Canada-wide the fans know Kongbo & Desjar equal The Bombers.  Now they equal somewhere else.

Here's another point: if Kongbo & Desjar had never gone to the NFL, would they be Bombers today?  My hunch is yes.  Certainly one of them.  Our NAT turnover rate is pretty low.
Logged

Never go full Rider!
TecnoGenius
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 7588



« Reply #50 on: May 25, 2023, 03:17:55 AM »

I looked over the Lions website as well as 3DN, as far as I can see Kongbo hasn't been interviewed recently, so it's hard to say why he decided to sign with the Lions.  Doubt we'll ever know, he doesn't seem to be a talkative guy.

Grin Cheesy Grin  Understatement!  I've never seen even 1 presser or TSN or BB.com vignette on Kongbo.  Not even a sideline interview.  Dude must actively avoid the press, because I'm sure he'd be a good story.
Logged

Never go full Rider!
TecnoGenius
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 7588



« Reply #51 on: May 25, 2023, 03:20:49 AM »

The thing is, we don't need him, we just need an effective rotational end. Kongbo being Canadian made it somewhat easier to fit him on the roster but we started a third American defensive end plenty last year.

This is 100% true.  He's gravy.  He gives us more cheetah.  He keeps the 2 J's fresh without going "normal NAT" level of effectiveness.  With the new FAKENAT rules we might be able to achieve the same thing with a much cheaper end-of-the-line vet IMP.  Or one of the new ELC IMP DL steps up as a DI choice.

I would have liked to see Kongbo here, but and the end of the day, meh.
Logged

Never go full Rider!
TecnoGenius
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 7588



« Reply #52 on: May 25, 2023, 03:22:43 AM »

I know right now in Winnipeg it's hard to find apartments. One of the Bombers asked me over the weekend if I had any apartments coming open at the end of the month. However with that massive fire, there will be a long wait to get into anything at this time. When he told me who the player or players were, we decided to offer our basement suite. We met one of the players yesterday and he will be moving tonight. I know Kyrie Wilson has been doing this for a few years now.

That's very cool.  I guess we can't hope to find out who.  Huh Cheesy   Not sure why apartments are hard to find, they are building them (and condos) absolutely everywhere for the last 7 years.

If you get lots of inside info from him we expect to hear all the dirt here!!   Shocked Grin Grin Grin
Logged

Never go full Rider!
TecnoGenius
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 7588



« Reply #53 on: May 25, 2023, 03:27:03 AM »

Not so sure about that, it's practical money management, excessive over spending on one player is going to leave them short all down the line.  I was thinking about Bailey's future the other day, poor guy is never going to get his bump in pay as long as Schoen, Lawler and Demski are lined up in front of him.

Bailey can easily become the #1 or #2 receiver.  He just needs to perform better than the rest and have the hot hand.  If we put him wide we can easily move him back into the slot if he's hot.  Let's say he goes 12 for 12 on his first pass attempts.  We'll give him the ball a lot then.  Buck & Zach very quickly focus on the hot hand: that's very apparent.

But Bailey has his share of dropsies and whiffs, often can't get open, and thus he's not the 1st/2nd read.  But he is a great sleeper you can run curls and crossers all night to then do the one post later in the game where no one follows him.  Every Bomber receiver is a legit TD threat.  Buck is blessed.
Logged

Never go full Rider!
theaardvark
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 31469



« Reply #54 on: May 25, 2023, 01:07:22 PM »

Apartments are not hard to find.  *Affordable* apartments are another case.  Especially on less than a one year term. 

I remember when I had met some of the then new Bombers at a poker tournament, and gave some a iift "home" they were sharing a house that a Bomber supporter rented to them in Charleswood.  IIRC, Woodson, Stephan and Pencer were the roomies, and even sharing the house, the rent was tough for guys on PR/ELC/IR deals. 

Sure, there are lots of places available for the veteran guys making good coin.  Not sure if the TC dates allow for using dorm spaces for the TC camp fodder until the AR/PR are set and the guys can go out and seek longer term accommodations based on making the team. 
Logged

Unabashed positron.  Blue koolaid in my fridge.  I wear my blue sunglasses at night.  Homer, d'oh.
Pete
Sr. Member
****
Posts: 486


« Reply #55 on: May 25, 2023, 01:17:41 PM »

This is 100% true.  He's gravy.  He gives us more cheetah.  He keeps the 2 J's fresh without going "normal NAT" level of effectiveness.  With the new FAKENAT rules we might be able to achieve the same thing with a much cheaper end-of-the-line vet IMP.  Or one of the new ELC IMP DL steps up as a DI choice.

I would have liked to see Kongbo here, but and the end of the day, meh.

The thing is if Jeffcoat gets hurt he'd become the main guy Last year we didn't have that. Also we also need to look at the future.Its rare a player gets more resilient when they get older
Logged
Sir Blue and Gold
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 23312



« Reply #56 on: May 25, 2023, 01:24:52 PM »

You could probably make the case we'd be better off with Kongbo than Jeffcoat, however, it's not an easy one.

Kongbo has 4 sacks in 26 CFL games. In the NFL he played OLB which is similar, but not exactly like, a pure DE and he had basically zero stats and little playing time down there. He's quite literally never done it before in either league. It is rare for a Canadian to have the stature and ability that Kongbo has but it's a pretty big gamble none the less. You are basically betting a sizable SMS chunk that a 27-year-old is finally going to put it all together starting in June and have the durability and consistency that an starting DE needs to have.

I can see why we didn't.
« Last Edit: May 25, 2023, 01:27:03 PM by Sir Blue and Gold » Logged
DM83
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 8472


« Reply #57 on: May 25, 2023, 02:05:25 PM »

Kongbo - was adequate.  I don't remember any big plays.  Of course, that doesn't mean he was ineffective, just as part of the D-Line did his expected assignments.  I do believe he has good speed, and of course, that makes him someone the offence has to be wary of.

Whoever pays him, is where he should go.  He should now focus on a CFL career.  I.M.O.
Logged
Waffler
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 630



« Reply #58 on: May 25, 2023, 02:29:33 PM »

Also we also need to look at the future.
We are loading up for THIS year. Is it not widely assumed this is the last kick at the cat for this group? Not easy to keep so many vets and still outbid BC where he surely got starters money.
Logged

Home isn't where you're from,
it's where you find light when all
grows dark. - Pierce Brown
__________________________________________________
Everything seems stupid when it fails.  - Fyodor Dostoevsky
Pigskin
Global Moderator
*****
Posts: 9887



« Reply #59 on: May 25, 2023, 04:48:47 PM »

Apartments are not hard to find.  *Affordable* apartments are another case.  Especially on less than a one year term. 

I remember when I had met some of the then new Bombers at a poker tournament, and gave some a iift "home" they were sharing a house that a Bomber supporter rented to them in Charleswood.  IIRC, Woodson, Stephan and Pencer were the roomies, and even sharing the house, the rent was tough for guys on PR/ELC/IR deals. 

Sure, there are lots of places available for the veteran guys making good coin.  Not sure if the TC dates allow for using dorm spaces for the TC camp fodder until the AR/PR are set and the guys can go out and seek longer term accommodations based on making the team. 

That's why we are willing to help these young players out. He's a second year player with not a lot of income, so we are giving him the same deal as our Ukrainian family. Showed up yesterday with a 2lb container of protein powder, a play book, and a large bag of laundry.

As far as inside info. He said AB is not practicing because we are trying to trade him. LOL

Logged

Don't go through life looking in the rearview mirror.
Blue In BC
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 29278


« Reply #60 on: May 25, 2023, 04:54:13 PM »

That's why we are willing to help these young players out. He's a second year player with not a lot of income, so we are giving him the same deal as our Ukrainian family. Showed up yesterday with a 2lb container of protein powder, a play book, and a large bag of laundry.

As far as inside info. He said AB is not practicing because we are trying to trade him. LOL



I can't imagine that to be true. He's not that expensive and is one of the top LB's in the entire league. We re-signed him to a new 2 year deal in late 2022.
Logged

2019 Grey Cup Champions
Pigskin
Global Moderator
*****
Posts: 9887



« Reply #61 on: May 25, 2023, 05:19:39 PM »

I can't imagine that to be true. He's not that expensive and is one of the top LB's in the entire league. We re-signed him to a new 2 year deal in late 2022.

Really? You did see the LOL.
Logged

Don't go through life looking in the rearview mirror.
Blue In BC
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 29278


« Reply #62 on: May 25, 2023, 05:44:04 PM »

Really? You did see the LOL.


What wasn't as clear was whether the player added the " lol " or you did. If the player suggested that without the " lol " it could have greater meaning. If you added it, that would suggest disbelief on your part as it is on my part.
Logged

2019 Grey Cup Champions
Pete
Sr. Member
****
Posts: 486


« Reply #63 on: May 25, 2023, 06:09:10 PM »



What wasn't as clear was whether the player added the " lol " or you did. If the player suggested that without the " lol " it could have greater meaning. If you added it, that would suggest disbelief on your part as it is on my part.
"rolls my eyes" c'mon this isn't even a thing.
« Last Edit: May 25, 2023, 08:29:46 PM by Pete » Logged
blue_or_die
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 9044



« Reply #64 on: May 25, 2023, 06:27:03 PM »

lmao @ blue in bc

never change, man!!  Cheesy
Logged

Back2Back Grey Cup champs and WE ARE LIT
Blue In BC
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 29278


« Reply #65 on: May 25, 2023, 07:33:56 PM »

lmao @ blue in bc

never change, man!!  Cheesy

I wasn't kidding. I took that Pigskin added the lol. If that's the case and a player had said that with a straight face, it would have some merit. What can be read misses the context of seeing what a person actually says and how he says it.
Logged

2019 Grey Cup Champions
theaardvark
Hero Member
*****
Posts: 31469



« Reply #66 on: May 25, 2023, 09:19:27 PM »

I can't imagine that to be true. He's not that expensive and is one of the top LB's in the entire league. We re-signed him to a new 2 year deal in late 2022.

{/sarcastica}

With the collection of Bombers in BC, no doubt they would be interested in him...  does he have a no trade clause in his deal?

{/-sarcastica}


Logged

Unabashed positron.  Blue koolaid in my fridge.  I wear my blue sunglasses at night.  Homer, d'oh.
Pages: 1 2 3 ... 5 [All]
  Print  
 
Jump to:  

Powered by MySQL Powered by PHP Powered by SMF 1.1.2 | SMF © 2006-2007, Simple Machines LLC Valid XHTML 1.0! Valid CSS!