Who is IN Who is OUT 2024?

[GOLDMEMBER]

Who is your mind returns  and who in moves on for whatever reason goin into next year?

I?ll start on the offensive side of the ball

Collaros in
Brown out FA pick up likely

Brady out NFL tryouts to at least start the year
Augustine in
Miller out retires
Jackson out left unsigned

Hardrick out retires
Bryant in
Neufeld in
Kolonkowski in
Gray in
Eli in
Richmond in
Knight in

Lawler in
Bailey in
Schoen in resigns multi year
Wolitarsky out released
Demski in
McRae out
Ambles out

Might be missing some.

I?ll do D and ST another night

[Pete]

moatly agree

Collaros in
Brown out FA pick up likely

Brady out NFL tryouts to at least start the year
Augustine in
Miller out retires
Jackson out left unsigned

Hardrick out retires (in, was the west outstanding lineman)
Bryant in out retires[/font]
Neufeld in
Kolonkowski in
Gray in
Eli in
Richmond in
Knight in  [font=Verdana]out[/font]

Lawler in
Bailey in
Schoen in resigns multi year  out..some team will pull a lawler and sign him for 350k+
Wolitarsky out released  in 
Demski in
McRae out  in on pr
Ambles out

Might be missing some.

I?ll do D and ST another night

[KINGCHARLES]

Who is your mind returns  and who in moves on for whatever reason goin into next year?

I?ll start on the offensive side of the ball

Collaros in
Brown out FA pick up likely

Brady out NFL tryouts to at least start the year
Augustine in
Miller out retires
Jackson out left unsigned

Hardrick out retires
Bryant in
Neufeld in
Kolonkowski in
Gray in
Eli in
Richmond in
Knight in

Lawler in
Bailey in
Schoen in resigns multi year
Wolitarsky out released
Demski in
McRae out
Ambles out

Might be missing some.

I?ll do D and ST another night

There?s rumours that MBT wants to come back to the CFL, also rumours that Streveler could actually attempt to comeback. That with Bo Levi Mitchell pissed off in Hamilton. I have a feeling we hold on to Brown for another year or 2 and he takes over from Collaros after that

[dd]

moatly agree

Collaros in
Brown out FA pick up likely

Brady out NFL tryouts to at least start the year
Augustine in
Miller out retires
Jackson out left unsigned

Hardrick out retires (in, was the west outstanding lineman)
Bryant in out retires[/font]
Neufeld in
Kolonkowski in
Gray in
Eli in
Richmond in
Knight in  [font=Verdana]out[/font]

Lawler in
Bailey in
Schoen in resigns multi year  out..some team will pull a lawler and sign him for 350k+
Wolitarsky out released  in 
Demski in
McRae out  in on pr
Ambles out

Might be missing some.

I?ll do D and ST another night

Hardrick getting outstanding lineman is a complete joke. He has been getting routinely beat on the edge for 2 years now and clubs have figured it out, if you want to get to our Qb, rush from the right side. Him getting the nomination over Bryant  is an absolute crime

[dd]

I don?t see us releasing Woli, he?s a NAT and is fairly reliable I say he stays on.

[bluengold204]

I?m not gonna speculate on who?s in or out but my gut tells me this is the year where we see larger change in personnel.

[Pete]

I?m not gonna speculate on who?s in or out but my gut tells me this is the year where we see larger change in personnel.

you might be right.. we should likely be looking to 2025 when we host the grey cup,and looking at who is out there we can sign to 2 year deals to improve the team.

[Jesse]

Who is your mind returns  and who in moves on for whatever reason goin into next year?

I?ll start on the offensive side of the ball

Collaros in
Brown out FA pick up likely

Brady out NFL tryouts to at least start the year
Augustine in
Miller out retires
Jackson out left unsigned

Hardrick out retires
Bryant in
Neufeld in
Kolonkowski in
Gray in
Eli in
Richmond in
Knight in

Lawler in
Bailey in
Schoen in resigns multi year
Wolitarsky out released
Demski in
McRae out
Ambles out

Might be missing some.

I?ll do D and ST another night

- I still think it's more likely than not that Brady doesn't go anywhere.
- Hardrick will not retire. He's said time and time again they'll have to rip the jersey off his back to get him to stop playing.
- I don't know how we re-sign Schoen
- Woli's another guy who's going no where. We love him,  he loves it here.
- I'm curious if Stan is thinking of hanging them up and I wonder if Neuf maybe would leave with him.

[Blue In BC]

Who is your mind returns  and who in moves on for whatever reason goin into next year?

I?ll start on the offensive side of the ball

Collaros in
Brown out FA pick up likely

Brady out NFL tryouts to at least start the year
Augustine in
Miller out retires
Jackson out left unsigned

Hardrick out retires
Bryant in
Neufeld in
Kolonkowski in
Gray in
Eli in
Richmond in
Knight in

Lawler in
Bailey in
Schoen in resigns multi year
Wolitarsky out released
Demski in
McRae out
Ambles out

Might be missing some.

I?ll do D and ST another night

Who is Knight?

[Pigskin]

Miller 34
Benson 36
Bighill 35
Briggs 33
Bryant 37
Collaros 35
Hardrick 33
Kolankowski 31
Thomas 32
Wilson 31
Darby 31
Jefferson 32
Jeffcoat 32
Jackson 31
Gauthier 31

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Who is Knight?

Oh c'mon man, Harry Knight the backup QB???  He's dam* near 70 and isn't earning his keep, so out he goes!

[bwiser]

Oh c'mon man, Harry Knight the backup QB???  He's dam* near 70 and isn't earning his keep, so out he goes!

Theres a name from the past.

[Blue In BC]

Oh c'mon man, Harry Knight the backup QB???  He's dam* near 70 and isn't earning his keep, so out he goes!

I watched him play a few times. I remember we had QB's: # 5 ( Brock ), # 8 ( Ealey) and # 6 ( Knight ) but analysts wondering if we had a # 1? lol

Teams need another QB like Ealy or Jonas that were also had primary kicking roles too. Jonas was a leading scorer in Winnipeg as a QB ( passing and rushing TD's ) and FG kicker.

Ealey only kicked FG's but also scored as a running / short yardage QB.

Limited roster size and no short yardage specialists in those days.

[Cool Spot]

Collaros 35

I'm not sure Collaros is too "old", there are multiple QBs that have been "old" that have had success:

- Henry Burris won a Grey Cup in 2016 as Ottawa's QB at the age of 41
- Ricky Ray won a Grey Cup in 2017 as Toronto's QB at the age of 38
- Damon Allen won a Grey Cup in 2000 as BC's QB at the age of 37, and again as Toronto's QB in 2004 at the age of 41

Then, of course, we have the examples in the NFL of Tom Brady winning multiple Super Bowls in his 40's, and Peyton Manning and John Elway winning in their late 30's. Other NFL QBs have similarly played late into their 30's with success although they haven't necessarily won championships (but still got to playoffs).

So, at least at the QB position, the clock is ticking but it seems to depend a lot on the individual and how they upkeep their training.

[bwiser]

moatly agree

Collaros in
Brown out FA pick up likely

Brady out NFL tryouts to at least start the year
Augustine in
Miller out retires
Jackson out left unsigned

Hardrick out retires (in, was the west outstanding lineman)
Bryant in out retires[/font]
Neufeld in
Kolonkowski in
Gray in
Eli in
Richmond in
Knight in  [font=Verdana]out[/font]

Lawler in
Bailey in
Schoen in resigns multi year  out..some team will pull a lawler and sign him for 350k+
Wolitarsky out released  in 
Demski in
McRae out  in on pr
Ambles out

Might be missing some.

I?ll do D and ST another night

I mostly agree with you. I think that Schoen stays and Woli stays. I also think that Oilvera may be using the NFL  to a better deal out of the Bombers. I dont think we will lose Schoen because we will have a lot more cap room if Bryant and Bighill retire as expected. We should be able to pay Olivera as well. I would like to keep Brown if at all possible but I am not sure tht will happen.

[Blue In BC]

I mostly agree with you. I think that Schoen stays and Woli stays. I also think that Oilvera may be using the NFL  to a better deal out of the Bombers. I dont think we will lose Schoen because we will have a lot more cap room if Bryant and Bighill retire as expected. We should be able to pay Olivera as well. I would like to keep Brown if at all possible but I am not sure tht will happen.

There will be an upper limit on what Oliveria can and will get. Generally I expect he's in for a $100K increase which would take him to just under $200K with perhaps some playing incentives. More than that becomes a financial issue IMO.

If he choose to not re-sign a deal early and waits out a chance at the NFL that money gets spent mostly before TC. We don't know how serious he is about the NFL chance but we can understand his desire to try.

Any new money for anyone needs to come from other changes on the roster. That may come from some retirements or decisions to move on from some vets earning a lot of money.

I think we get a better picture of who gets signed before free agency and who doesn't in the early days etc.  We might lose someone like Holms to an NFL offer. Even Nichols could see some interest. Neither are making big CFL money but losing them creates a roster need.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

I'm not sure Collaros is too "old", there are multiple QBs that have been "old" that have had success:

- Henry Burris won a Grey Cup in 2016 as Ottawa's QB at the age of 41
- Henry Burris won a Grey Cup in 2017 as Toronto's QB at the age of 38
- Damon Allen won a Grey Cup in 2000 as BC's QB at the age of 37, and again as Toronto's QB in 2004 at the age of 41

Then, of course, we have the examples in the NFL of Tom Brady winning multiple Super Bowls in his 40's, and Peyton Manning and John Elway winning in their late 30's. Other NFL QBs have similarly played late into their 30's with success although they haven't necessarily won championships (but still got to playoffs).

So, at least at the QB position, the clock is ticking but it seems to depend a lot on the individual and how they upkeep their training.

Burris never played for the Argos, must mean Rickie Ray?

[ModAdmin]

I'm not sure Collaros is too "old", there are multiple QBs that have been "old" that have had success:

- Henry Burris won a Grey Cup in 2016 as Ottawa's QB at the age of 41
- Henry Burris won a Grey Cup in 2017 as Toronto's QB at the age of 38
- Damon Allen won a Grey Cup in 2000 as BC's QB at the age of 37, and again as Toronto's QB in 2004 at the age of 41

Then, of course, we have the examples in the NFL of Tom Brady winning multiple Super Bowls in his 40's, and Peyton Manning and John Elway winning in their late 30's. Other NFL QBs have similarly played late into their 30's with success although they haven't necessarily won championships (but still got to playoffs).

So, at least at the QB position, the clock is ticking but it seems to depend a lot on the individual and how they upkeep their training.

Another amazing fact about Henry Burris is that he got younger between 2016 and 2017! 

[Sir Blue and Gold]

Another amazing fact about Henry Burris is that he got younger between 2016 and 2017! 

Hank was older than Henry.

[Bomber Diehard]

Brady isn?t going anywhere plus his age.
Woli I like - plus a Canuck.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

- I still think it's more likely than not that Brady doesn't go anywhere.
- Hardrick will not retire. He's said time and time again they'll have to rip the jersey off his back to get him to stop playing.
- I don't know how we re-sign Schoen
- Woli's another guy who's going no where. We love him,  he loves it here.
- I'm curious if Stan is thinking of hanging them up and I wonder if Neuf maybe would leave with him.

I don't see Neuf. ready to retire yet, he's too engaged and is still playing with a lot of enthusiasm.  I agree with your comment on Hardrick, he'll play as long as they let him but he does have to take his fitness level more seriously and drop some weight. If Stanley doesn't want to retire yet I can see them letting him walk in F.A. just to make room for others and save some cap, at most he's got 2 years left so might as well move on sooner than later.  Question is, if they retain the rest including Richmond, who's going to willingly accept the 6th man role?

[Cool Spot]

Burris never played for the Argos, must mean Rickie Ray?

Indeed you are correct. Went back and fixed my post's copy/paste error.

[Cool Spot]

Another amazing fact about Henry Burris is that he got younger between 2016 and 2017! 

That's a trick I wish I could pull off on a year-to-year basis.

[Pigskin]

I think the Bombers give Brady the same deal as Demski.

[GOLDMEMBER]

D

Jefferson in
Jeffcoat in one last hurrah I suppose
Hansen out I think he is done
Haba in
Thomas out retires
Walker in for now
Lawson in
Fox in for now
Schmekel out

Bighill out retires
Clements in
Wilson in
CadaWallader in
Briggs out retires
Gauthier in
Mauro in for now
Cole in
Beeksma out

Alexander out retires
Darby out
Hallett in
Kramdi in
Houston in
Rose out
Nichols in
Holm in
Lawrence out
Parker out
Kelly in

[GOLDMEMBER]

Coaching

O Shea in
Pierce in
Hall out retires
Boudreau out
Costello in
Stanley in
Younger in

GM

Walters out I have a hunch here
All scouts return

[GOLDMEMBER]

ST

Sheehan out
Castillo in
Benson out retires

[GOLDMEMBER]

Forgot a couple

O Leary Orange in
Prukop out

[Doublezero]

- I still think it's more likely than not that Brady doesn't go anywhere.
- Hardrick will not retire. He's said time and time again they'll have to rip the jersey off his back to get him to stop playing.
- I don't know how we re-sign Schoen
- Woli's another guy who's going no where. We love him,  he loves it here.
- I'm curious if Stan is thinking of hanging them up and I wonder if Neuf maybe would leave with him.

Don't think we can assume any player wants to return to Winnipeg just on the basis of good-will, or because they think the club can go to the cup. Those days are now gone. So major changes this off-season. Oliveira really surprised me. I did not think much of him at first and he had fumble-itis. But he really settled in past 2 seasons, carried the club on his back. Thanks to help from the O line. Run blocking really was their strength, pass blocking, not so much. But there will be changes on that O line next year for sure. Yes, Schoen will be tough to re-sign - not sure we can afford him. Man, he paid the price with his body this year, really took a beating - all year long. I could see Woli in Vancouver, he's a west coast kid.

[Pete]

on d, we have to get bigger at db position. We have the smallest group in the league
wpg                                         mtrl
Houston  5ft 10     173             Dequoy    6ft 3   200
Parker     5ft 8      188              Ento        6ft1    187
Nichols    5ft 10     180             Evans     5ft 11   195
Holms      5ft 11     182            Ruffin      5ft 10  177
alexander  6ft         192            Sutton     5ft 11  194
Avg          5 FT10    183            Avg          6FT    191   note toronto is even bigger

and Alexander was noticably less physical this year.
Nichols, Holms/ Houston likely stay on but we need to add some size especially when you look at the receivers in the league who seem to average 6 ft 2 or taller. Depending on what happens with Bighill, we also need to look at the size of lbs as well

wilson  215
cole     207
clements  216
if biggie retires we will need to add some size in the middle
To me weren't as physical on defense this year in comparison to previous years

[GOLDMEMBER]

Brady isn?t going anywhere plus his age.
Woli I like - plus a Canuck.

Where the heck was Woli in the GC game?

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Where the heck was Woli in the GC game?

I saw him over on the sidelines talking to Knight.

[GOLDMEMBER]

I saw him over on the sidelines talking to Knight.

lol ok my bad I get it move on.

[Jesse]

D

Jefferson in
Jeffcoat in one last hurrah I suppose
Hansen out I think he is done
Haba in
Thomas out retires
Walker in for now
Lawson in
Fox in for now
Schmekel out

Bighill out retires
Clements in
Wilson in
CadaWallader in
Briggs out retires
Gauthier in
Mauro in for now
Cole in
Beeksma out

Alexander out retires
Darby out
Hallett in
Kramdi in
Houston in
Rose out
Nichols in
Holm in
Lawrence out
Parker out
Kelly in

DL

- I think the Jeff's, Haba, Lawson are back.
- If history repeats, Walker will leave via FA.
- Fox didn't really get any opportunity here, but maybe fills Walker's role

LB

- Bighill is signed for next year and wants to be back
- I think everyone re-ups, Briggs may retire

Secondary

- Darby is definitely out
- Rose finished the year on the bench, so he might be out
- I can see Houston, Kramdi, Nichols, Hallett, and Alexander all re-signed.
- I haven't seen Parker's/Holm's names on the FA lists, so I think they're already signed.

[blue_gold_84]

Don't think we can assume any player wants to return to Winnipeg just on the basis of good-will, or because they think the club can go to the cup. Those days are now gone.

How are "those days" gone now?

It's way too early to make any predictions, much less baseless assumptions.

[Blue In BC]

That's a really long list of potential free agents. I count 17 starters and some very important specialists as well like Grant and Castillo.

Let's see if Walters gets a new deal quickly which will then help getting players back on board.

[blue_gold_84]

That's a really long list of potential free agents. I count 17 starters and some very important specialists as well like Grant and Castillo.

Let's see if Walters gets a new deal quickly which will then help getting players back on board.

This. His contract situation needs to get sorted out as quickly as possible. That's a crucial step in getting the off-season off in the right direction, IMO.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

This. His contract situation needs to get sorted out as quickly as possible. That's a crucial step in getting the off-season off in the right direction, IMO.

It has to be Wade's priority, hopefully he gets it done within the next few weeks.

[blue_gold_84]

It has to be Wade's priority, hopefully he gets it done within the next few weeks.

As I understand it, both Miller and Walters agreed to wait until after the season to resume negotiations. I'm hopeful they'll return to the table in short order and get a new contract for the best GM in the game.

[Jesse]

That's a really long list of potential free agents.

Just like every year.

[ModAdmin]

Unofficial list of Blue Bomber free agents from 3rd Down going into 2024...

https://3downnation.com/2023/11/22/the-winnipeg-blue-bombers-pending-2024-free-agent-list/

[Sec223]

Is Zach a team man ? Take a hair cut and give some to Brown. More playing time for Brown and Zach can stay healthy for retirement. A few others can take a cut or be cut. Money for Schoen.

[Blue In BC]

Just like every year.

It's not that the list is long but this year's list includes 17 starters. That's the unusual part of the list. On offence only Collaros, Demski and Lawler are not potential free agents.

IIRC last years list was a bit shorter.

I agree it would be beneficial for Collaros to take a cut in his salary as far as that money being used to retain others. Is that fair? Not really but it might be a discussion to take up with him.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

It's not that the list is long but this year's list includes 17 starters. That's the unusual part of the list. On offence only Collaros, Demski and Lawler are not potential free agents.

IIRC last years list was a bit shorter.

I agree it would be beneficial for Collaros to take a cut in his salary as far as that money being used to retain others. Is that fair? Not really but it might be a discussion to take up with him.

I don't know if Zach would accept it but if he's seriously contemplating retiring after 2025, he might agree to share playing time with Brown, or at least give him a good package he can run numerous times every game.  Doesn't solve the money issue but it might be enough to convince Brown the job is his when Zach leaves.

[Jesse]

I don't know if Zach would accept it but if he's seriously contemplating retiring after 2025, he might agree to share playing time with Brown, or at least give him a good package he can run numerous times every game.  Doesn't solve the money issue but it might be enough to convince Brown the job is his when Zach leaves.

Even if Zach decided today that he was going to retire two years from now, I can't see Dru waiting around that long.

[Blue In BC]

It's not unusual to re-sign some players from the PR for another chance in the next TC. This year the teams seemed to take a different approach by leaving more of them on the 1 game PR in order to retain them sooner / initially.

OTOH, is it telling for those they didn't activate for the last regular season game and were left on the PR.

Obviously that can change at any time and additions or deletions could be made.

Of all those transactions I'm surprised that Hallett was currently left on the PR and is now a free agent. Maruo and Machino now free agents? I ne3ver understood keeping a Global OL in the 1st place but with most of our OL as potential free agents, this would have been a make or break year to actually fight to become a starter.  Maruo has been here since 2021 and wasn't a total bust.

Hansen is a potential free agent and he was ineffective after returning from injury.

That leaves us with Karamoko and Sheehan as the only ones left potentially.

[Blue In BC]

Even if Zach decided today that he was going to retire two years from now, I can't see Dru waiting around that long.

All of that is true and being asked to take a cut is never an easy sell for a player. I'd like to see Lawler to take a cut as well.

Again it's not a matter of not being worth their salary but SMS across the roster is always an issue.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

It's not unusual to re-sign some players from the PR for another chance in the next TC. This year the teams seemed to take a different approach by leaving more of them on the 1 game PR in order to retain them sooner / initially.

OTOH, is it telling for those they didn't activate for the last regular season game and were left on the PR.

Obviously that can change at any time and additions or deletions could be made.

Of all those transactions I'm surprised that Hallett was currently left on the PR and is now a free agent. Maruo and Machino now free agents? I ne3ver understood keeping a Global OL in the 1st place but with most of our OL as potential free agents, this would have been a make or break year to actually fight to become a starter.  Maruo has been here since 2021 and wasn't a total bust.

Hansen is a potential free agent and he was ineffective after returning from injury.

That leaves us with Karamoko and Sheehan as the only ones left potentially.

What happens with all the PR players the Bombers stuffed on the 1 game over the last few weeks?

Alston
Fox
Garbutt
Haba
Karmoko
Kelly
McGhee
Murphy
Richmond
Schmekel

Surely they have to clarify their status and can't protect them all?

[Blue In BC]

What happens with all the PR players the Bombers stuffed on the 1 game over the last few weeks?

Alston
Fox
Garbutt
Haba
Karmoko
Kelly
McGhee
Murphy
Richmond
Schmekel

Surely they have to clarify their status and can't protect them all?

Status is clarified by action of putting them the 1 game IR instead of returning them to the PR.

On IR means under contract at the moment and in theory coming to TC.

Now many players on the roster ( including PR ) may be released prior to TC etc etc. We see somewhat of a musical chairs scenario as TC approaches. If we re-sign all our vet DL for example, we may trim some of those that spent most of the year on the PR.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Status is clarified by action of putting them the 1 game IR instead of returning them to the PR.

On IR means under contract at the moment and in theory coming to TC.

Now many players on the roster ( including PR ) may be released prior to TC etc etc. We see somewhat of a musical chairs scenario as TC approaches. If we re-sign all our vet DL for example, we may trim some of those that spent most of the year on the PR.

I guess with so many free agents the number is kind of irrelevant because it doesn't matter which list they're on if they're not under contract for next season. Of all the players listed on the 1-game, only Rose will be a F.A.

[J5V]

I'm not sure Collaros is too "old", there are multiple QBs that have been "old" that have had success:

As much as I appreciate everything Zach has done for us, I was not impressed with his play this year. I can't put my finger on it but it seems his decision making and killer instinct aren't what they used to be. It's so hard to tell if if was him, Buck, the scheme, or what, but I wasn't impressed with his overall play.

[Blue In BC]

As much as I appreciate everything Zach has done for us, I was not impressed with his play this year. I can't put my finger on it but it seems his decision making and killer instinct aren't what they used to be. It's so hard to tell if if was him, Buck, the scheme, or what, but I wasn't impressed with his overall play.

The Bomber offence was once again the scoring leader in the CFL. Nearly 100 points more than 7 teams. He had the highest ranked efficiency rating. 2nd highest yardage total and the most TD passes thrown. 2nd highest average yards per reception.

We didn't have Lawler ( or a good replacement ) for 6 games or Schoen for 2 games + play offs.

Our OL was not as effective as in previous seasons. IMO losing Couture was more significant than we thought. That forced some errors we aren't used to.

Play calling went very conservative at times. That's on the coaches.

[buckzumhoff]

Very little play action. Receivers lined up 3 wide . No motion. Didn't really confuse the defense. Inside runs were tight . Played too conservative. When bombers were on the road playing BC they went all out on offense.  But collaros has to get his arm able to throw the long ball. Empty the back field only using one running back to block anyway. Put another receiver out there.

[Tiger]

The Bomber offence was once again the scoring leader in the CFL. Nearly 100 points more than 7 teams. He had the highest ranked efficiency rating. 2nd highest yardage total and the most TD passes thrown. 2nd highest average yards per reception.

We didn't have Lawler ( or a good replacement ) for 6 games or Schoen for 2 games + play offs.

Our OL was not as effective as in previous seasons. IMO losing Couture was more significant than we thought. That forced some errors we aren't used to.

Play calling went very conservative at times. That's on the coaches.

Exactly.  Also I was one of few that was not happy with last GC performance. That  said ......compared to what?

I think there needs to be some reflection by coaches.  While I would be more than happy with the same group next year I think these GC losses were team losses. There were issues accross the board.  Hard to believe with our coaches' focusses and demeanor but there it is.  What is it the coaches dod or did not do?

Further I think what Brady does affects our signings. Will he bounce around NFL on try outs and PR? Bryant has lost a step or but is still better than 80-90% of the other CF OLinemen.  That said if there is not a chance to win at the that age, and he has the finances, he may hang them up. Brady and Bryant are hard to replace and key pieces.

[blue_or_die]

TLDR

I think all the notable names return except Brown, Walker, Darby and Rose (for obvious reasons). There might be a few others that seek bigger deals/roles that we simply can't afford, but I believe the is & should be to keep as much of the core intact throughout 2025. Then the mass retirements/exodus occurs and if we can win another cup in that timeframe it will have been well worth it. It all comes down to that home Grey Cup and trying to maximize that opportunity.

Hoping Brady doesn't go south without any interest and sit around waiting for teams to call - what a waste that would be. If there actually is interest, good for him, he deserves it. Otherwise, I agree with the poster that sumised he will get the same deal as Demski.

[Jesse]

What did Demski get?

3 years x how much?

[Ridermania]

From what I recall, it was somewhere around $150 plus incentives.

[Jesse]

From what I recall, it was somewhere around $150 plus incentives.

That seems a little light for Oliveria then.

But I would definitely do 3x180. Maybe even back-load the contract so he gets paid more in 2026 when Zach's money is presumably off the books.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

That seems a little light for Oliveria then.

But I would definitely do 3x180. Maybe even back-load the contract so he gets paid more in 2026 when Zach's money is presumably off the books.

Backloading contracts makes me cringe, usually get diminishing returns, players rarely perform better in their final year.

[blue_gold_84]

Backloading contracts makes me cringe, it's diminishing returns, players rarely perform better in their final year.

That's an oversimplification, IMO. Oliveira would be 29 in 2026 by the time a three-year deal expires, which is still prime for a tailback.

[Pigskin]

Defense Numbers.

Teams: Hallett 21, Exume 17, Cadwallader 16, Cole 14, Briggs 10, JA27 8, Maruo 7, Clement 6, Kramdi 6, Kelly 6.  

Sacks: Jefferson 11, Jeffcoat 7, Walker 6, Lawson 5, Thomas 5, Bighill 4, Haba 4. Impressed that Haba had 4 sacks in his limited playing time.

D. Tackles: Bighill 74, Holm 64, Houston 50, BA 41, Wilson 41, Walker 38, Nichols 38, Rose 32, WJ5 21, JJ94 21.

INTs.  Houston 7, BA 2, Holm 2, Rose 1, Lawson 1.

Fox: 1 game 3 DTs, 1 Sack.

Haba: 12 DTs, 4 Sacks.  Limited

Walker: 38 DTs, 4 Sacks.  Very good year.

[J5V]

What I just can't shake out of my mind are those last two passes by Fajardo -- one on 3rd and five that went for 30 yards, and then the TD throw. It was like two daggers to the heart. How in the world were we not able to stop that from happening? It just seems that if you're going to be a championship team you just have to have a stop there. That points obviously to defensive personnel. We just have to be better next year and I'm okay with moving on from the defensive personnel that failed us when it mattered most.

[dd]

What I just can't shake out of my mind are those last two passes by Fajardo -- one on 3rd and five that went for 30 yards, and then the TD throw. It was like two daggers to the heart. How in the world were we not able to stop that from happening? It just seems that if you're going to be a championship team you just have to have a stop there. That points obviously to defensive personnel. We just have to be better next year and I'm okay with moving on from the defensive personnel that failed us when it mattered most.

The truly sad part is, this is exactly what happened a year ago by a then unknown Chad Kelly, coming off the bench, and lit us up like a christmas tree. Same big plays against us. Parker wasn't just beat on the play, he was humiliated. Roc Carmichael embarrassed/didn't have a clue where his receiver was. If we're cutting people, I'd start there.

[Lincoln Locomotive]

The truly sad part is, this is exactly what happened a year ago by a then unknown Chad Kelly, coming off the bench, and lit us up like a christmas tree. Same big plays against us. Parker wasn't just beat on the play, he was humiliated. Roc Carmichael embarrassed/didn't have a clue where his receiver was. If we're cutting people, I'd start there.

The TD pass to Phillpot was Houston's assignment and Cody threw a perfect strike just past his outstretched fingertips.     On the previous throw Parker had his back turned to the ball and if the ball wasn't under thrown, it's a TD.    He seemed resigned to simply making the tackle to prevent a TD and at that point they were well within easy FG range to tie it.   Parker was in for Rose who I believe, didn't even dress for the game, correct me if I'm wrong.    Apparently Cody and  Calvillo had schemed for Parker and it obviously worked in crunch time.    They also used those quick outs to eliminate the rush threat from WJ and JJ which essentially nullified the rush.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

The TD pass to Phillpot was Houston's assignment and Cody threw a perfect strike just past his outstretched fingertips.     On the previous throw Parker had his back turned to the ball and if the ball wasn't under thrown, it's a TD.    He seemed resigned to simply making the tackle to prevent a TD and at that point they were well within easy FG range to tie it.   Parker was in for Rose who I believe, didn't even dress for the game, correct me if I'm wrong.    Apparently Cody and  Calvillo had schemed for Parker and it obviously worked in crunch time.    They also used those quick outs to eliminate the rush threat from WJ and JJ which essentially nullified the rush.

I think Parker got beat on a double move, he was expecting a quick pass to the flats and had to play catch up when Spieker faked a cut and blew by him, credit to the Als for setting that play up all day.

[dd]

I think Parker got beat on a double move, he was expecting a quick pass to the flats and had to play catch up when Spieker faked a cut and blew by him, credit to the Als for setting that play up all day.

For sure, but as a defensive player, the short pass isn't going to kill you, give up the deep double move........

[Ridermania]

Buck getting interviewed on Monday for Riders HC position.  He would bring Jordan Younger with him on his new staff. 

It's down to Buck or Scott Milanovich for HC.

[GOLDMEMBER]

Buck getting interviewed on Monday for Riders HC position.  He would bring Jordan Younger with him on his new staff. 

It's down to Buck or Scott Milanovich for HC.

Wow, interesting? 

[J5V]

The truly sad part is, this is exactly what happened a year ago by a then unknown Chad Kelly, coming off the bench, and lit us up like a christmas tree. Same big plays against us. Parker wasn't just beat on the play, he was humiliated. Roc Carmichael embarrassed/didn't have a clue where his receiver was. If we're cutting people, I'd start there.

I don't disagree with anything you've said here. Let's take it a bit further up the chain .. schemes on O and D left something to be desired IMO. I have found myself complaining several times this season about Buck's lack of imagination and Richie Hall's porous secondary. Did we do the best we could with the personnel we had available, or could we have done better, much better.

Richie Hall's D has been what it is for as long as he's been here. It's a bend, don't break type of D philosophy but it's only going to work as well as the personnel allows it to. I'm willing to give Richie Hall a pass as I've seen this D be lights-out in the past. I do think the problems on D are personnel-related.

My take on Buck is a little different. When Collaros first came here Buck seemed more than willing to take chances on Zach's arm and our O went from mediocre to prolific. For some reason something has changed. Buck has become far more conservative the last two seasons and I believe it has cost us. I have been experiencing the same kind of frustration with Buck as I used to with Lapo, namely, we've become very predictable. Never was that more evident to me than in the last two Grey Cup game fourth quarters. Two games where we had the game won until we wimped out and lost it late. This I don't blame on personnel but on scheme/philosophy. Personally, I'd rather go down in flames trying to win than to wimp out trying not to lose.

[Jesse]

Buck getting interviewed on Monday for Riders HC position.  He would bring Jordan Younger with him on his new staff. 

It's down to Buck or Scott Milanovich for HC.

That would be a major hit to our organizational depth. I always assumed Younger would take over for Hall.

[BBRT]

Buck getting interviewed on Monday for Riders HC position.  He would bring Jordan Younger with him on his new staff. 

It's down to Buck or Scott Milanovich for HC.

Will be interesting to see what happens if Buck is the Rider next head coach. Interesting from both a Rider and Bomber perspective. I do believe there will be a number of changes within the Bomber Organization in 2024. If they do not sign Kyle Walters one has to wonder what the organization will look like in 2024? Lots of moving parts to play out but the first one IMHO is to either sign Walters or not and then move on.

[J5V]

Will be interesting to see what happens if Buck is the Rider next head coach. Interesting from both a Rider and Bomber perspective. I do believe there will be a number of changes within the Bomber Organization in 2024. If they do not sign Kyle Walters one has to wonder what the organization will look like in 2024? Lots of moving parts to play out but the first one IMHO is to either sign Walters or not and then move on.

Yes agreed and if I know Wade Miller he will find the right personnel to improve this team. If Kyle moves on, we need to find the next man up.

[theaardvark]

Yowtch.  Buck or Milanovich... I guess O'Day has to decide on a known quantity, or someone he can blame another year f struggles on. 

If he hires Milanovich and fails, it will be hard to blame the coach, but with Buck he has someone much easier to blame...

Do the Riders have any outstanding coaching contracts being paid out?  That would make Buck the more likeley choice from an SMS perspective.

Anyone taking the riders job is going to be in tough, the aren't good, and don't have a lot of potential either.  And O'Day has be gloriously unable to navigate the FA market effectively.  So there won't be anything good there...

O'Day hiring Buck, who brings Younger AND Dru Brown, and possibly some of the hoggies, and maybe even BO20 would be a dynamic shift in the west.  Can he pull that off, an can Buck succeed in the big chair?  I guess we will see.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Yowtch.  Buck or Milanovich... I guess O'Day has to decide on a known quantity, or someone he can blame another year f struggles on. 

If he hires Milanovich and fails, it will be hard to blame the coach, but with Buck he has someone much easier to blame...

Do the Riders have any outstanding coaching contracts being paid out?  That would make Buck the more likeley choice from an SMS perspective.

Anyone taking the riders job is going to be in tough, the aren't good, and don't have a lot of potential either.  And O'Day has be gloriously unable to navigate the FA market effectively.  So there won't be anything good there...

O'Day hiring Buck, who brings Younger AND Dru Brown, and possibly some of the hoggies, and maybe even BO20 would be a dynamic shift in the west.  Can he pull that off, an can Buck succeed in the big chair?  I guess we will see.

The hell he will, I'd like to know who made this statement, guaranteed it wasn't Buck, more likely some mouthpiece that follow the Riders.  Bombers aren't going to sit back and let Buck run off with the fine china, especially with Wade Miller in charge.

[J5V]

The hell he will, I'd like to know who made this statement, guaranteed it wasn't Buck, more likely some mouthpiece that follow the Riders.  Bombers aren't going to sit back and let Buck run off with the fine china, especially with Wade Miller in charge.

LOL! Can you imagine the meltdown that'd be? LOL!

[Jesse]

The hell he will, I'd like to know who made this statement, guaranteed it wasn't Buck, more likely some mouthpiece that follow the Riders.  Bombers aren't going to sit back and let Buck run off with the fine china, especially with Wade Miller in charge.

Justin Dunk reported the interviews that the Riders had and some suspected coordinators (Aspiring HC's are asked who they would bring on as their staff).

The Bombers would absolutely not interfere with thier coaches leaving for promotions, so unless Hall is retiring and they're promoting Younger this year, he'd be free to go. Buck obviously can't take Brown with him, but he's a FA and signing with your old OC would be a tempting situation. No way in hell they get Brady there, though.

[dd]

Riders would be foolish not to bring in the experienced milanovich as their HC

[Jesse]

Riders would be foolish not to bring in the experienced milanovich as their HC

I honestly believe that?s O?Days preferred choice. Which confirms it?s the wrong one, lol.

[Tiger]

LOL! Can you imagine the meltdown that'd be? LOL!

No doubt. Miller would have heads rolling. 

Miller wants to win, loves the club and is tough as nails. In no small part he has built the club to where it is now.  Don?t expect him to roll over.

As to the Riders, Buck etc.  it?s a lot of speculation and the media needs something to write about.  If I am going to Riderville as a player and probably coach I am asking for a lot of cash.  Leaving Winnipeg means leaving a settled team with talent, a great coach, atmosphere and you are going to a rebuild with acrimony and the greatest fans not showing up.  It also sucks to lose and not be in the running for the Cup.  Needs to be more than a 10% raise.  They also have Harris as QB unless his injury is worse than publicized or this is his swan song.  Brown May go for money or opportunity, but I would suspect NFL is desirable and Ticats are more probable than Riders.


BOO is just cray cray to excite readers.

[Ridermania]

Yowtch.  Buck or Milanovich... I guess O'Day has to decide on a known quantity, or someone he can blame another year f struggles on. 

If he hires Milanovich and fails, it will be hard to blame the coach, but with Buck he has someone much easier to blame...

Do the Riders have any outstanding coaching contracts being paid out?  That would make Buck the more likeley choice from an SMS perspective.

Anyone taking the riders job is going to be in tough, the aren't good, and don't have a lot of potential either.  And O'Day has be gloriously unable to navigate the FA market effectively.  So there won't be anything good there...

O'Day hiring Buck, who brings Younger AND Dru Brown, and possibly some of the hoggies, and maybe even BO20 would be a dynamic shift in the west.  Can he pull that off, an can Buck succeed in the big chair?  I guess we will see.

All coaches are done being paid, starting a new free slate with coaching contracts.

[Blue In BC]

Just noticed that Darby is no longer on our IR. Did he ask to be released early?

[theaardvark]

All coaches are done being paid, starting a new free slate with coaching contracts.

OK.  Any idea why Shivers hasn't been mentioned?  Or has he?

[GOLDMEMBER]

Just noticed that Darby is no longer on our IR. Did he ask to be released early?

I noticed him on the FA list.

[Blue In BC]

I noticed him on the FA list.

That was the potential free agent for mid February. Although we didn't expect him to be re-signed, he's no longer on the updated roster list. All the new rookie signings have been added as of today.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

That was the potential free agent for mid February. Although we didn't expect him to be re-signed, he's no longer on the updated roster list. All the new rookie signings have been added as of today.

I think they're done with Darby, Kramdi took his job and they have no intention of re-signing him.

[Blue In BC]

I think they're done with Darby, Kramdi took his job and they have no intention of re-signing him.

That wasn't quite the point. The same could be said about Rose as well. Note that Kramdi is also a potential free agent.

The point was that as a potential free agent they could just choose to not re-sign him but he's been deleted early. I'm ok with that but normally you just see them drop off the roster when free agency hits.

Also the few PR players have now dropped off the roster as well. In theory they could be re-signed although I don't expect that. The only point there is that Machino and Mauro are 2 year players and our global depth is low. Hansen is also a potential free agent. Not really sure if he returns. His performance after his return with non existent IMO.

That only leaves us with 3 global players in total with Hansen as a potential free agent. Expecting another 2 round draft of just 2 players again in 2024.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

That wasn't quite the point. The same could be said about Rose as well. Note that Kramdi is also a potential free agent.

The point was that as a potential free agent they could just choose to not re-sign him but he's been deleted early. I'm ok with that but normally you just see them drop off the roster when free agency hits.

Also the few PR players have now dropped off the roster as well. In theory they could be re-signed although I don't expect that. The only point there is that Machino and Mauro are 2 year players and our global depth is low. Hansen is also a potential free agent. Not really sure if he returns. His performance after his return with non existent IMO.

That only leaves us with 3 global players in total with Hansen as a potential free agent. Expecting another 2 round draft of just 2 players again in 2024.

I see your point, I don't even look at the roster anymore.  Didn't hear a word spoken about the Global program or TD Atlantic during Grey Cup week, looks like they've replaced the later with TD Pacific, maybe they're moving on from the Global program as well.  I mean what's the point?

https://www.tsn.ca/cfl/cfl-announces-touchdown-pacific-between-ottawa-redblacks-and-bc-lions-in-victoria-1.2042283

[Blue In BC]

I see your point, I don't even look at the roster anymore.  Didn't hear a word spoken about the Global program or TD Atlantic during Grey Cup week, looks like they've replaced the later with TD Pacific, maybe they're moving on from the Global program as well.  I mean what's the point?

https://www.tsn.ca/cfl/cfl-announces-touchdown-pacific-between-ottawa-redblacks-and-bc-lions-in-victoria-1.2042283

I like the idea of TD Pacific. Hopefully they continue with the TD Atlantic as well. I know the Commish said it's time to determine whether to proceed with a new team in the Atlantic region or put it to bed.

IIRC there was a serious candidate involved in creating a 10th team. The on going issue is where and who pays for a stadium for any new team. The Lions created a pretty good temporary stadium in 2010 - 2011 while renos were being done to BC Place. It's possible to make that happen although at this point, I think unlikely we see this going ahead.

[Jesse]

I like the idea of TD Pacific. Hopefully they continue with the TD Atlantic as well. I know the Commish said it's time to determine whether to proceed with a new team in the Atlantic region or put it to bed.

IIRC there was a serious candidate involved in creating a 10th team. The on going issue is where and who pays for a stadium for any new team. The Lions created a pretty good temporary stadium in 2010 - 2011 while renos were being done to BC Place. It's possible to make that happen although at this point, I think unlikely we see this going ahead.

Insiders have said that this is replacing TD Atlantic this year. I expect that this event will now move across the country as a way to reach more fans.

Randy always talks about "serious candidates" who clearly are not that serious. A 10th team is not possible unless someone builds a stadium and there is no interest in spending that much public money on that kind of project right now. We're very lucky we got ours when we did.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Insiders have said that this is replacing TD Atlantic this year. I expect that this event will now move across the country as a way to reach more fans.

Randy always talks about "serious candidates" who clearly are not that serious. A 10th team is not possible unless someone builds a stadium and there is no interest in spending that much public money on that kind of project right now. We're very lucky we got ours when we did.

Funny to see so many CFL fans on FB grousing about this move away from Atlantic Canada, many are ex-pat Rider fans, but too bad, the Schooners had 20+ years to make something happen and did nothing.

[Jesse]

Funny to see so many CFL fans on FB grousing about this move away from Atlantic Canada, many are ex-pat Rider fans, but too bad, the Schooners had 20+ years to make something happen and did nothing.

I think it's a great idea. If you're going to have a regular season game outside whichever city is the "home team", why not move it around and let different communities have a chance to see a live game?

Phenomenal promotional tool.

[Blue In BC]

Insiders have said that this is replacing TD Atlantic this year. I expect that this event will now move across the country as a way to reach more fans.

Randy always talks about "serious candidates" who clearly are not that serious. A 10th team is not possible unless someone builds a stadium and there is no interest in spending that much public money on that kind of project right now. We're very lucky we got ours when we did.

Why can't they do both? Or at least some sort of rotation across the country in the same way the Grey Cup moves across the country.

[theaardvark]

Insiders have said that this is replacing TD Atlantic this year. I expect that this event will now move across the country as a way to reach more fans.

Randy always talks about "serious candidates" who clearly are not that serious. A 10th team is not possible unless someone builds a stadium and there is no interest in spending that much public money on that kind of project right now. We're very lucky we got ours when we did.

I guess the CFL is trying to mimic the NHL "outdoor classics" by holding games in outdoor venues... wait... hold on a minute...

[theaardvark]

I think it's a great idea. If you're going to have a regular season game outside whichever city is the "home team", why not move it around and let different communities have a chance to see a live game?

Phenomenal promotional tool.

I could see the Argo's holding a game in London (drawing a bigger crowd ), but I could never see it on the prairies.  SSK and WPG have huge, new stadia and cannot afford to give up a home date, ever.

Just don't see it ever happening, not sure why it is in BC unless BC Place is booked for an extended time for something, or is under repairs.

[Jesse]

Why can't they do both? Or at least some sort of rotation across the country in the same way the Grey Cup moves across the country.

There's no reason to do both. But like I said, I do expect it to start moving around. The first of which happens to be in Victoria.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

I could see the Argo's holding a game in London (drawing a bigger crowd ), but I could never see it on the prairies.  SSK and WPG have huge, new stadia and cannot afford to give up a home date, ever.

Just don't see it ever happening, not sure why it is in BC unless BC Place is booked for an extended time for something, or is under repairs.

I think the game in Victoria is chiefly driven by the Lions owner, he's sacrificing home attendance to expand his fanbase, and bully for him for doing so.  Anyone is Southern Ont. can easily attend an Argo or Ti-Cat game, changing location would do little to increase or please their fanbase.

[theaardvark]

I think the game in Victoria is chiefly driven by the Lions owner, he's sacrificing home attendance to expand his fanbase, and bully for him for doing so.  Anyone is Southern Ont. can easily attend an Argo or Ti-Cat game, changing location would do little to increase or please their fanbase.

Atlantic Bowl was to ramp up the interest for a franchise in the area.  A London game might be similar. 

If the Pacific Bowl is to try to increase fan base, good on him.  Not sure how much it will make a difference...

[dd]

I think the Lions owner being from Victoria had something to do with this promotion?he wanted his hometown to see the Lions live and good for him. I can see charter bus trips from Victoria to BC place coming out of this

[Blue In BC]

There's no reason to do both. But like I said, I do expect it to start moving around. The first of which happens to be in Victoria.

Of course there is a reason. Exposure to other fans that don't normally get to see a live CFL game in their area.

[blue_gold_84]

Of course there is a reason. Exposure to other fans that don't normally get to see a live CFL game in their area.

The Atlantic region has been getting those games for years (seven games in total IIRC). That's plenty of exposure.

Touchdown Pacific will be a nice change, IMO.

[Blue In BC]

The Atlantic regions has been getting those games for years (seven games in total IIRC). That's plenty of exposure.

Touchdown Pacific will be a nice change, IMO.

I didn't say to not have the TD Pacific. I'm just saying that having 2 games in other cities is not a bad idea to promote the CFL.

[Stats Junkie]

I think the Lions owner being from Victoria had something to do with this promotion?he wanted his hometown to see the Lions live and good for him. I can see charter bus trips from Victoria to BC place coming out of this

BC Lions have been running their 'Island Express', 'Interior Express' & 'Fraser Valley Express' since the 2022 west semi final.

[bwiser]

The CFL should look at putting a game in Quebec City. There is a lot of interest in football in Quebec and having a game in Quebec City would really give a boost to the league and possibly help attendance in Montreal. Quebec City would make a natural rival for the Als. Atlantic Canada has had plenty of time to get organized and have achieved nothing.

[Blue In BC]

The CFL should look at putting a game in Quebec City. There is a lot of interest in football in Quebec and having a game in Quebec City would really give a boost to the league and possibly help attendance in Montreal. Quebec City would make a natural rival for the Als. Atlantic Canada has had plenty of time to get organized and have achieved nothing.

Quebec City would be a good choice for a game. I'm not fixated on having a game in Atlantic Canada. OTOH I don't think that's necessarily a bad idea either. London would be another option.

[blue_gold_84]

Quebec City has to be on the league's radar. It'd be a no brainer to have a game at Laval, IMO.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

They played an exhibition game in Fort McMurray a few years ago, if teams are going to sacrifice attendance giving up an exhibition game is probably the best way to do it.

[blue_gold_84]

They played an exhibition game in Fort McMurray a few years ago, if teams are going to sacrifice attendance giving up an exhibition game is probably the best way to do it.

There were two CFL games at SMS Equipment Stadium in Fort McMurray during the 2015 season: one pre-season on Jun. 13th, one regular season on Jun. 27th.

It was dubbed Northern Kickoff. Never happened again, though.

[VictorRomano]

They played an exhibition game in Fort McMurray a few years ago, if teams are going to sacrifice attendance giving up an exhibition game is probably the best way to do it.

Whenever I think of Fort McMurray, I can't get this scene out of my head:

https://youtu.be/yMYAXac2n1E?si=m3rhXHujWY4pcT5y

[bwiser]

Whenever I think of Fort McMurray, I can't get this scene out of my head:

https://youtu.be/yMYAXac2n1E?si=m3rhXHujWY4pcT5y

Fubar rocks!