Winnipeg Blue Bombers release veteran receiver Drew Wolitarsky

Started by Sir Blue and Gold, January 27, 2025, 01:14:05 PM

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Sir Blue and Gold

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have released Canadian-American receiver Drew Wolitarsky.

The 29-year-old made 33 catches for 403 yards and one touchdown this past season, missing eight games due to injury. He started five games at field-side wide receiver and five games at boundary wide receiver.

"These decisions are always difficult and it's especially true with a player who has been with us for so long," said general manager Kyle Walters in a statement. "Drew has been a solid contributor for the team, was popular in the locker room and was instrumental in two Grey Cup championships, and for that the franchise is forever grateful."

Per sources, Wolitarsky was due a $12,000 offseason roster bonus on Feb. 1 as part of a deal that would have paid him around $110,000 in 2025.

https://3downnation.com/2025/01/27/winnipeg-blue-bombers-release-veteran-receiver-drew-wolitarsky/

Blue In BC

I'm sorry to see this happen. He was a fan favourite and worked well with Collaros. I had wondered whether his injury in late 2023 and then again in 2024 might have been a sign of a medical problem. We'll see if he surfaces elsewhere or decides to retire.

Clercius became his replacement in that role. Canadian depth at receiver is a little thin or suspect though. Does this give room for Gassama on the PR at the very least? Free agent acquistion maybe?

One benefit at the moment is it trims the SMS by $35K more or less.

Thanks for an excellent career in Winnipeg.
Take no prisoners

blue_gold_84

This is unfortunate news to read. I fully expected he'd be back for 2025 but it seems like injuries were a factor.

Thanks for your contributions, Drew. And best of luck.
#forthew
лава Україні!
We are now in The Find Out Phase, eh.
井の中の蛙大海を知らず

Jesse

Good luck to Woli, loved him during his time here.

Hopefully he's healthy and continue his career elsewhere if that's his wish.
My wife is amazing!

VictorRomano

Fans need to look at this situation using their head, not their heart. Stats don't care about your feelings.


Dude is a nice guy, but he's coming off a career-threatening injury, has never broken 700yds in a season , only had 8 TDs over the last 3 years. We need to find money to keep our bonafied superstar FA recievers (Lawler, Schoen), and as a rookie Canadian on a much lower salarly, Kevens Clercius put up similar numbers in Woli's spot. Woli's been with the Bombers since 2017, and has been steady but not spectacular. He's never going to be a 1000yd guy - 2954 career yards over 89 games as a Bomber. That's 33.x yards per game, or an average of 442yds per season over 7 seasons. Clercius put up 352yds as a rookie in 2024, and we assume he wil improve with experience.

Literally, Woli is nothing special on the field. We've seen what he can do, and it's time to move on.  Best of luck to you, Drew, and thanks for your contributions, but if I have to choose between Woli and Schoen, or Woli and Lawler, not sorry to say Woli is the odd man out on that list.

Waffler

Kind of shocking. Bombers playing hard ball? Never thought I'd see it. Injured and old are no longer safe here? An admission that we have to change if we want to win it all again I assume. I wonder what the plan is for the savings?

Good luck to Drew. He was a great Bomber on and off the field.
Buried in the essentially random digits of pi, you can find your eight-digit birthdate. (Is that a wink from God or just a lot of digits?) - David G. Myers
__________________________________________________
Everything seems stupid when it fails.  - Fyodor Dostoevsky

Blue In BC

It's a reality of dealing with balancing the SMS across the roster. Some players will earn more in 2025. That means others will need to earn less one way or another. In some cases veterans will be released as part of a given succession plan which in turn can trim some SMS.

Injuries, age, replacement choices and roster size come into play.

I wouldn't call this an SMS decision specifically. In that sense there isn't a specific plan for the savings, but it is a cumulative situation across the roster.

We saved some money by not re-signing Bighill. In that case we may have used that money to retain Jones.

Ultimately no team can maintain a total status quo. Good players often are moved out.
Take no prisoners

Pigskin

Big body Canadian receiver that made some clutch catches. Canadian receive depth a little depleted with Woli82 and Murphy gone. $110K for a Vet Canadian received didn't seem like it was crazy money. 
Don't go through life looking in the rearview mirror.

ModAdmin

Blue Bombers release receiver Drew Wolitarsky

WINNIPEG, MB., January 27, 2025 – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has released veteran receiver Drew Wolitarsky.

"These decisions are always difficult and it's especially true with a player who has been with us for so long," said Blue Bombers GM Kyle Walters. "Drew has been a solid contributor for the team, was popular in the locker room and was instrumental in two Grey Cup championships, and for that the franchise is forever grateful."

Wolitarsky was selected by the Blue Bombers in the 2017 CFL Supplemental Draft and appeared in 89 regular-season games over his seven seasons with the team, pulling in 227 receptions for 2,954 yards and 18 touchdowns.

Injuries limited him to 10 games in 2024 in which he had 33 catches for 403 yards and one touchdown. His best season came in 2023, when he had 47 receptions for 668 yards and six touchdowns.
"You can't let praise or criticism get to you. It's a weakness to get caught up in either one." - John Wooden

theaardvark

Man, this is a tough business.

I've always loved "Mr. Second Down", he's been a reliable and stalwart Bomber, with occasional flashes of brilliance, but more a blue collar in the muck guy.  No doubt O'Shea will miss his presence.

Roster bonus, injury recovery, acceptable replacement available, it is an imperfect storm for this very heartbreaking decision.

Both Woli and Streve are heart and soul guys, but injury issues and $SMS concerns make these business, not personal, decisions. 

I wouldn't be surprised to see this duo resurface somewhere, possibly together.
Quote from: Pigskin on January 27, 2025, 03:23:15 PMBig body Canadian receiver that made some clutch catches. Canadian receive depth a little depleted with Woli82 and Murphy gone. $110K for a Vet Canadian received didn't seem like it was crazy money.

Its not a $ issue alone.  Injury recovery, bonus due and Clercius stepping up so well all factored in.  Uninjured, and no Clercius, Woli plays in 2025 for us.
Unabashed positron.  Blue koolaid in my fridge.  I wear my blue sunglasses at night.  Homer, d'oh.

Throw Long Bannatyne

Quote from: Pigskin on January 27, 2025, 03:23:15 PMBig body Canadian receiver that made some clutch catches. Canadian receive depth a little depleted with Woli82 and Murphy gone. $110K for a Vet Canadian received didn't seem like it was crazy money.

Don't agree with this move at this time, should have kept Woli at least another year to go for the Grey Cup at home, not paying a $12k bonus is a joke. They're taking away one of Zach's key outlet and favourite weapons coming off a season in which he struggled to communicate with his receivers, seems like bad timing. 

Clercius has a bright future, he has good hands, runs good routes, and goes to where the play tells him, but that's not always where Zach needs him to go. Woli had a full understanding of the play on the field and had mind-meld with Zach. To understand the route tree as well as the QB and to read a D is a special skill only a few receivers achieve, like Dressler and Tasker. I think they should have kept him around at least till Zach retires, as his special crutch player.




GOLDMEMBER

Woli thank you

All around fantastic on and off the field.

Good luck moving forward.
I LOSHT MY MEMBER IN AN UNFORTUNATE SHMELTING ACCSHIDENT!

dd

Another roster bonus casualty. I really don't like when teams do this, in fact, I wish they did away with this type of 'bonus' as it isn't a bonus, more of an incentive to get rid of the guy.

If Woli is healthy, I really hope he catches on with another team needing ratio help and a good reliable check down receiver who can block.

blue_or_die

Unfortunate, tough decision.

Thanks for everything, Woli. The fans won't forget you!
#Ride?

ModAdmin

Have to believe Drew was let go - not over a $12,000 bonus - but because he was deemed not healthy enough to play at his full potential in the coming season.  If, and I agree it is a big IF, that is true, why would the Bombers throw $12 out the window and potentially his 2025 salary?
"You can't let praise or criticism get to you. It's a weakness to get caught up in either one." - John Wooden

Throw Long Bannatyne

Quote from: ModAdmin on January 27, 2025, 05:49:21 PMHave to believe Drew was let go - not over a $12,000 bonus - but because he was deemed not healthy enough to play at his full potential in the coming season.  If, and I agree it is a big IF, that is true, why would the Bombers throw $12 out the window and potentially his 2025 salary?

Any idea what his specific injury was?  Seemed to stem from a couple of rough hits to the rib area midseason, I don't think it was leg related.

ModAdmin

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 27, 2025, 06:22:30 PMAny idea what his specific injury was?  Seemed to stem from a couple of rough hits to the rib area midseason, I don't think it was leg related.

Shoulder and rib injuries I believe in August 2024.  He also suffered a knee injury in 2023.
"You can't let praise or criticism get to you. It's a weakness to get caught up in either one." - John Wooden

markf

He seems like a Very likeable person.  he contributed  a lot  to the team.

I understand but will  still miss some of these guys.

Sir Blue and Gold

Super nice guy by all accounts. Regardless of whether or not he would have been healthy the reality is his production and what he did for the offense is very much replaceable. Kevens Clercius is the obvious choice and you can conservatively say he'll be just as good because he did replace him for much of the year at that 5th receiver spot. Gotta squeeze that SMS where you can especially in a year we've said we'll be more active in free agency. Not only in Clercius cheaper, but he won't have a bonus due. That's helpful.

Blueforlife

Tough business and tougher player.  He will succeed at whatever comes next.  A key part of our past success.  Good luck.

Pigskin

Drew looked  heart broken in his video from Australia. He said he didn't see this coming. 
Don't go through life looking in the rearview mirror.

markf

Quote from: Pigskin on January 27, 2025, 11:14:58 PMDrew looked  heart broken in his video from Australia. He said he didn't see this coming. 

This is A Sad day. 

TecnoGenius

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on January 27, 2025, 07:52:11 PMSuper nice guy by all accounts. Regardless of whether or not he would have been healthy the reality is his production and what he did for the offense is very much replaceable.

I wouldn't say he's "very replaceable".  Do we do better in the '24 GC if we have a 100% healthy Woli instead of who we had?  Certainly.  Woli is the tough hombre middle / crosser that gets you the hard 2nd & 8's.  Clercius had 1-2 dropsies IIRC, and most of the game the D didn't respect him and cheated up on the "real" targets.

Woli demands more respect on the field and so DBs can't cheat as much.

Clercius might become as good as Woli was, but he's not there yet.  And besides Clercius, we don't have anyone else with the beef and grit to get those 2nd & longs.
Never go full Rider!

TecnoGenius

Quote from: Waffler on January 27, 2025, 02:44:58 PMKind of shocking. Bombers playing hard ball? Never thought I'd see it. Injured and old are no longer safe here? An admission that we have to change if we want to win it all again I assume. I wonder what the plan is for the savings?

You spotted the most important subtext here.  Biggie alone is a fluke.  Biggie + Woli is a trend.  Is this a massive shift in Mafia mindset?  Looks like it.

In the past these guys would have been given a chance to compete at TC, and still be favored to win the spot.

Has WM handed down a new diktat to KW?  Has he sensed trouble in river city?  Or is this Mafia getting together and reaching a new consensus on the best approach going forward?

Or is this a hint the OC is already chosen and he's vetoing some re-signings he doesn't like?

It's hard to tell who is behind this Brave New WFC World.  We may never know.

If we're shedding the perennially-injured, why re-sign Wilson?  He's been more hurt than Woli for a few years.  Maybe we saw a need to keep WILL talent and offered him a very subpar contract, saying "look, we're ditching all the tub-sitters, so you can take <insert lowball offer here> or bye"...

And does this spell the end for Strev.  Woli/Strev were the inseparable pair, and a big pull for Strev was being able to be here with Woli.  Add in Strev potentially being lame for life after the disaster of an injury...
Never go full Rider!

TecnoGenius

Thanks Woli.  Mr Electric Guitar in the EZ.  You will be remembered fondly; as one of the important pieces of getting us back into the W column and to the cups.

I'm really bummed it appears a lot of the "deserve to play at a '25 home GC" guys are being let go.  However, it could be Mafia was looking at a situation where they didn't think we'd make the cup again if we didn't make some tough moves.

Keeping favorite weapons so they can play in the home cup doesn't help anyone if the lack of healthy talent means we can't even get there.
Never go full Rider!

Blueforlife

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on January 27, 2025, 07:52:11 PMSuper nice guy by all accounts. Regardless of whether or not he would have been healthy the reality is his production and what he did for the offense is very much replaceable. Kevens Clercius is the obvious choice and you can conservatively say he'll be just as good because he did replace him for much of the year at that 5th receiver spot. Gotta squeeze that SMS where you can especially in a year we've said we'll be more active in free agency. Not only in Clercius cheaper, but he won't have a bonus due. That's helpful.
Poorly timed post calling him very replaceable which lacks respect for the player and isn't a completely accurate statement imo.  Reliable, gritty, strong, consistent, productive Canadian receivers like him are hard to come by imo.
Clercius does look good, lucky to have him and I'm sure that played a role here.

Jesse

Quote from: TecnoGenius on January 28, 2025, 03:24:24 AMYou spotted the most important subtext here.  Biggie alone is a fluke.  Biggie + Woli is a trend.  Is this a massive shift in Mafia mindset?  Looks like it.

In the past these guys would have been given a chance to compete at TC, and still be favored to win the spot.

Has WM handed down a new diktat to KW?  Has he sensed trouble in river city?  Or is this Mafia getting together and reaching a new consensus on the best approach going forward?

Or is this a hint the OC is already chosen and he's vetoing some re-signings he doesn't like?

It's hard to tell who is behind this Brave New WFC World.  We may never know.

If we're shedding the perennially-injured, why re-sign Wilson?  He's been more hurt than Woli for a few years.  Maybe we saw a need to keep WILL talent and offered him a very subpar contract, saying "look, we're ditching all the tub-sitters, so you can take <insert lowball offer here> or bye"...

And does this spell the end for Strev.  Woli/Strev were the inseparable pair, and a big pull for Strev was being able to be here with Woli.  Add in Strev potentially being lame for life after the disaster of an injury...


Or it's just the obvious that neither will be healthy to play in 2025.
My wife is amazing!

Sir Blue and Gold

#27
It's pretty obvious that we need 
Quote from: Blueforlife on January 28, 2025, 04:33:29 AMPoorly timed post calling him very replaceable which lacks respect for the player and isn't a completely accurate statement imo.  Reliable, gritty, strong, consistent, productive Canadian receivers like him are hard to come by imo.
Clercius does look good, lucky to have him and I'm sure that played a role here.

He was a big score for us back in 2017 when we were trying to rebuild Canadian talent and couldn't piecemeal together enough quality Canadian (...or I suppose Californian technically Canadian in his case) starters. The landscape of the CFL has changed somewhat since then and so has the Blue Bombers. He seems like a super great human which I said right off the top, but if we're going to talk about a strictly football move the contributions are replaceable.

And reliable, gritty and experienced is good, but what wins is talent. I think there's a tacit acknowledgement from the Blue Bombers this off-season that we've gotten a bit top heavy in that regard in some position categories. We need a injection along the defensive line and probably offensive line too, if we can swing it, and it's going to have an opportunity cost which we're seeing in Bighill, Woli and we'll see who else we don't re-sign before free agency begins.

Go_Big_D

thought he would have been a good depth player to keep around

theaardvark

Is this a "big shift in the Mafia mindset"?  Hopefully.

We have been hamstrung in the past by loyalty to players playing injured, or who haven't recovered sufficiently. 

It has cost us games, including Grey Cups.

If the Mafia now wants to ensure they have a roster of players that are fully healthy, and not hoping some recover enough to contribute, then it does change the page on team dynamic.

In game, in season injuries are one thing.  But starting a season with fingers crossed you aren't wasting $SMS and a roster space, can sound cold hearted, but it is a business and next man up.

It started with Jeffcoat last year, Biggie, Woli and Streve this year... there is a fine line between family and charity, and this is a business. 

If there were no cap or roster limits, I'd keep all these guys around in a heartbeat, we've got the cash to do it.  But the Mafia got lucky in the past hanging onto injured players.  The hard lessons the past few years has made this growth necessary. 
Unabashed positron.  Blue koolaid in my fridge.  I wear my blue sunglasses at night.  Homer, d'oh.

Blue In BC

Quote from: theaardvark on January 28, 2025, 03:49:38 PMIs this a "big shift in the Mafia mindset"?  Hopefully.

We have been hamstrung in the past by loyalty to players playing injured, or who haven't recovered sufficiently. 

It has cost us games, including Grey Cups.

If the Mafia now wants to ensure they have a roster of players that are fully healthy, and not hoping some recover enough to contribute, then it does change the page on team dynamic.

In game, in season injuries are one thing.  But starting a season with fingers crossed you aren't wasting $SMS and a roster space, can sound cold hearted, but it is a business and next man up.

It started with Jeffcoat last year, Biggie, Woli and Streve this year... there is a fine line between family and charity, and this is a business. 

If there were no cap or roster limits, I'd keep all these guys around in a heartbeat, we've got the cash to do it.  But the Mafia got lucky in the past hanging onto injured players.  The hard lessons the past few years has made this growth necessary. 

I agree that if there weren't cap or roster / ratio issues, we'd have kept them. All of that would depend on their health status. We don't really know if either were going to be available by TC.
Take no prisoners

Throw Long Bannatyne

Quote from: Blue In BC on January 28, 2025, 04:06:11 PMI agree that if there weren't cap or roster / ratio issues, we'd have kept them. All of that would depend on their health status. We don't really know if either were going to be available by TC.

I doubt an injury had anything to do with this decision, would be surprised if Woli hasn't recovered 100% from an upper body injury that didn't involve his arms or shoulders.

I think it's either a questionable salary shave, or based on them only wanting to start 2 Natl. receivers.  Providing Clercius with the opportunity to further develop,  if Woli is in house, that probably doesn't happen.

There should be plenty of discarded Natl. receivers left over after FA to find a natl. backup that will play for soup money.  Woli should be able to catch on with another club if he wants to continue his career, he could easily play for another 3-4 years.


Blue In BC

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 28, 2025, 04:25:42 PMI doubt an injury had anything to do with this decision, would be surprised if Woli hasn't recovered 100% from an upper body injury that didn't involve his arms or shoulders.

I think it's either a questionable salary shave, or based on them only wanting to start 2 Natl. receivers.  Providing Clercius with the opportunity to further develop,  if Woli is in house, that probably doesn't happen.

There should be plenty of discarded Natl. receivers left over after FA to find a natl. backup that will play for soup money.  Woli should be able to catch on with another club if he wants to continue his career, he could easily play for another 3-4 years.



Woli missed the last 8 games of the season. There is more reason to believe there is an injury issue which may or may not allow being ready for TC.

His salary was not that significant that he couldn't have been retained as a back up to allow Clercius to start.

Augustine was reported to be earning a similar amount the last couple of seasons. He rarely sees the field on offence.

In that sense your theory doesn't hold water regarding Clercius or depth for back ups.

A broader view about SMS over the entire roster and possible new / younger depth might. Gassama is returning to TC in 2025. Whether he makes any part of the roster is a TBD, but we may pick up less expensive depth in free agency.

We'll see if another teams signs Woli and / or whether he chooses to continue playing football.  That could happen today or during TC when teams have seen what they have and decide what they need.
Take no prisoners

J5V

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 28, 2025, 04:25:42 PMI doubt an injury had anything to do with this decision, would be surprised if Woli hasn't recovered 100% from an upper body injury that didn't involve his arms or shoulders.
I'm not sure. I suspect that last injury was a bad one and may have limited his ability to play to his usual standard.
Go Bombers!

Throw Long Bannatyne

Quote from: Blue In BC on January 28, 2025, 05:31:17 PMWoli missed the last 8 games of the season. There is more reason to believe there is an injury issue which may or may not allow being ready for TC.

His salary was not that significant that he couldn't have been retained as a back up to allow Clercius to start.

Augustine was reported to be earning a similar amount the last couple of seasons. He rarely sees the field on offence.

In that sense your theory doesn't hold water regarding Clercius or depth for back ups.

A broader view about SMS over the entire roster and possible new / younger depth might. Gassama is returning to TC in 2025. Whether he makes any part of the roster is a TBD, but we may pick up less expensive depth in free agency.

Augustine likely gone for the same reason, they're making changes, giving younger players the opportunity to step up. 

J5V

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 28, 2025, 05:41:04 PMAugustine likely gone for the same reason, they're making changes, giving younger players the opportunity to step up. 
Yes and this is part of the business. It's hard to accept sometimes.
Go Bombers!

theaardvark

You always need players for depth and Specials.  Augustine is one of those.  And I don't think he will be getting upfront money or over $100k for that, so he's worth it.

We do have draft picks coming back from playing USports, and will have new draft picks as well.  So depth becomes easier, especially as deep on the chart at Rec as we have covered.  Demski, Clercius in sets where we start 2 Nat RECs.  But we don't need 2 Nat Rec starters, Woli can even be replaced by a rookie Int.

Unabashed positron.  Blue koolaid in my fridge.  I wear my blue sunglasses at night.  Homer, d'oh.

Throw Long Bannatyne

Quote from: theaardvark on January 28, 2025, 06:26:42 PMYou always need players for depth and Specials.  Augustine is one of those.  And I don't think he will be getting upfront money or over $100k for that, so he's worth it.

We do have draft picks coming back from playing USports, and will have new draft picks as well.  So depth becomes easier, especially as deep on the chart at Rec as we have covered.  Demski, Clercius in sets where we start 2 Nat RECs.  But we don't need 2 Nat Rec starters, Woli can even be replaced by a rookie Int.

Maybe if Pokey comes back they play 4 imports, but if they don't start Clercius this season, they could lose him next year when his ELC expires.  He's the only receiver left who's blocking ability can match Bailey or Woli.

Blue In BC

Quote from: J5V on January 28, 2025, 05:47:07 PMYes and this is part of the business. It's hard to accept sometimes.

I think that is likely but not certain. He's a decent back up but we're already losing a number of Canadians. Logic would suggest that Chris-Ike will move up the depth chart as the replacement.
Take no prisoners

Pigskin

Drew had his best year in 2023: 18 games: 683 yards, 6 TDs, 14.2 yard Avg. He was having a very good in 2024: before getting injured. 10 Games, 33/47, 403 yards, 136 Yac. 

Career: 89 Games. 227/330, 2954 yards, Yac 842, 18 TDs, Avg. 13 yards.

I think he's going to be a little harder to replace then some think.   
Don't go through life looking in the rearview mirror.

Blueforlife

Quote from: Pigskin on January 28, 2025, 09:30:30 PMDrew had his best year in 2023: 18 games: 683 yards, 6 TDs, 14.2 yard Avg. He was having a very good in 2024: before getting injured. 10 Games, 33/47, 403 yards, 136 Yac. 

Career: 89 Games. 227/330, 2954 yards, Yac 842, 18 TDs, Avg. 13 yards.

I think he's going to be a little harder to replace then some think.   
I have seen this in the past, good players are gone and people think we are better off or there will be limited impact.  You don't get better by deletion when you lose talented people.  Canadian depth is key.  I understand the situation but it will hurt early on until we find the new normal.

Throw Long Bannatyne

Drew Wolitarsky All Touchdowns As A Blue Bomber compiled by Waders27.


TecnoGenius

Quote from: Jesse on January 28, 2025, 10:37:37 AMOr it's just the obvious that neither will be healthy to play in 2025.

We shall see.  If another IR-prone guy or aging vet is released, then we definitely have a trend.

It used to be we never fired anyone on the IR... even Moe Leggett got a chance to play live ball again after his horrific injury.  The courtesy was we'd give them the benefit of the doubt.
Never go full Rider!

TecnoGenius

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on January 28, 2025, 01:41:16 PMIt's pretty obvious that we need 
He was a big score for us back in 2017 when we were trying to rebuild Canadian talent and couldn't piecemeal together enough quality Canadian (...or I suppose Californian technically Canadian in his case) starters.

Woli was the best NAT R we had in forever (excluding Demski).  Miles better than JFG or Watson, etc.

Woli finally caught the mythical deep rail shot that JFG missed like 10/10 times.
Never go full Rider!

TecnoGenius

Quote from: theaardvark on January 28, 2025, 03:49:38 PMIs this a "big shift in the Mafia mindset"?  Hopefully.

Well I hope your "hopefully" is right.  I worry that potential FA/scout players look at this and think we treat the lame horses like dirt off to the glue factory.  The loyalty surely counted for something in the past?

I guess you'd have to ask the players how much they care about this stuff.  They all know it's a business, but they probably prefer it if a team really cares vs injury => glue factory.

On the plus side, all the young hotshots think they are indestructible and the best thing ever, so maybe hearing about releases like this doesn't impact them at all!
Never go full Rider!

TecnoGenius

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 28, 2025, 05:41:04 PMAugustine likely gone for the same reason, they're making changes, giving younger players the opportunity to step up.

Augustine is secure until there is some NAT Augustine-level as a RB on the team.  Ike or whoever isn't there yet (not even close).  Therefore I doubt we release Johnny.

It'll probably take the signing of the next AH / Brady level player, or massive drop-off in performance by Johnny, before we let him walk.
Never go full Rider!

TecnoGenius

Quote from: theaardvark on January 28, 2025, 06:26:42 PMYou always need players for depth and Specials.  Augustine is one of those.  And I don't think he will be getting upfront money or over $100k for that, so he's worth it.

I think it was back when we were re-signing Johnny & Brady and trying to pressure AH33 that we gave both Johnny & Brady $125k or so?  Going by hazy memories here.

Johnny is not getting under $100k.  He's a legit NAT backup on a team that needs a NAT RB backup.
Never go full Rider!

TecnoGenius

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 28, 2025, 07:39:51 PMMaybe if Pokey comes back they play 4 imports, but if they don't start Clercius this season, they could lose him next year when his ELC expires.  He's the only receiver left who's blocking ability can match Bailey or Woli.

You mean Pokey or Clercius?  I hope you mean Clercius.  Pokey wasn't exactly Darvin Adams on blocking out there...

Clercius has the body for it for sure, but he hasn't mastered it completely yet.  He's still quite green.
Never go full Rider!

Blue In BC

Quote from: TecnoGenius on January 29, 2025, 03:04:08 AMAugustine is secure until there is some NAT Augustine-level as a RB on the team.  Ike or whoever isn't there yet (not even close).  Therefore I doubt we release Johnny.

It'll probably take the signing of the next AH / Brady level player, or massive drop-off in performance by Johnny, before we let him walk.


In his best year ( 2022 ) he had 290 yards. He may be the in game replacement but I think we'd flip to an import of Oliveria is injured longer term.

Take no prisoners

VictorRomano

Quote from: Blue In BC on January 29, 2025, 01:02:23 PMIn his best year ( 2022 ) he had 290 yards. He may be the in game replacement but I think we'd flip to an import of Oliveria is injured longer term.

There is a reason we drafted Chris-Ike last year....

Throw Long Bannatyne

Quote from: Blue In BC on January 29, 2025, 01:02:23 PMIn his best year ( 2022 ) he had 290 yards. He may be the in game replacement but I think we'd flip to an import of Oliveria is injured longer term.

Can't blame Johnny for never being used, amazed he stuck around so long playing second fiddle.  Just like Tim Flanders, wasted his best years as an athlete waiting for the opportunity to play.

Throw Long Bannatyne

Quote from: VictorRomano on January 29, 2025, 01:51:21 PMThere is a reason we drafted Chris-Ike last year....

Poor showing for his first year of pro, can't recall him ever touching the ball.

theaardvark

$80k is nothing to sneeze at for a vet Nat backup.  That's like having a year round $40/hr job.  For playing a game you love.

And starting 8 or 9 Nats means you can have a Int backup at RB, especially if he has other talents.

JA seems fine with his backup/ST role.  And MOS likes consistency.  He's a known quantity at a known price.
Unabashed positron.  Blue koolaid in my fridge.  I wear my blue sunglasses at night.  Homer, d'oh.

blue_or_die

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 29, 2025, 04:09:06 PMCan't blame Johnny for never being used, amazed he stuck around so long playing second fiddle.  Just like Tim Flanders, wasted his best years as an athlete waiting for the opportunity to play.

I wouldn't say he "wasted" his best years. He's making a living playing teams and a backup role in an industry with notoriously short careers for a team that's been the the championship game 5 years in a row. It's not like he would be a starter anywhere else. Before Brady blew up the league there were some that thought Johnny was this incredible player capable of carrying a team as a nat RB, but that's largely been debunked.

That said, love having him around to backup Brady and certainly hope/expect he returns in 2025.
#Ride?

Pigskin

Looking at the top 20 draft prospects it looks like there will be a number of WR and DL in this draft. With us drafting 7/16/maybe 18/19, and then 27, we should be able to pickup another gem like Clercius.
Don't go through life looking in the rearview mirror.

Blue In BC

Quote from: theaardvark on January 29, 2025, 05:29:42 PM$80k is nothing to sneeze at for a vet Nat backup.  That's like having a year round $40/hr job.  For playing a game you love.

And starting 8 or 9 Nats means you can have a Int backup at RB, especially if he has other talents.

JA seems fine with his backup/ST role.  And MOS likes consistency.  He's a known quantity at a known price.

$80K is only about $6K over an ELC. Whether that is what he earned in 2024 or asking for in 2025 we don't know. Regardless it's not just his salary but whether we have the " next " guy in the pipeline.

There may be an equivalent to him that we may choose to target in free agency.
Take no prisoners

theaardvark

Quote from: Blue In BC on January 29, 2025, 07:55:59 PM$80K is only about $6K over an ELC. Whether that is what he earned in 2024 or asking for in 2025 we don't know. Regardless it's not just his salary but whether we have the " next " guy in the pipeline.

There may be an equivalent to him that we may choose to target in free agency.

Unless there is significant upside, either in price or play, I don't see the WFC pursuing an equivalent when they have a guy that knows the team and likes it here.  Which Augustine obviously does, considering he is still here.
Unabashed positron.  Blue koolaid in my fridge.  I wear my blue sunglasses at night.  Homer, d'oh.

Blue In BC

Quote from: theaardvark on January 29, 2025, 10:13:05 PMUnless there is significant upside, either in price or play, I don't see the WFC pursuing an equivalent when they have a guy that knows the team and likes it here.  Which Augustine obviously does, considering he is still here.

Equivalent in talent or upside does not necessarily mean at a higher cost. Technically Augustine is here until Feb 11 and is then a free agent. I may be wrong but then question would be why haven't they re-signed him? Essentially he's an ST player and in game substitute at RB.

Obviously for every player the question is cost versus benefit. If he's only asked for $80K he stands a better chance to stick then if he asks for $110K.

Like I said, he's just an example where a deal hasn't been made and perhaps not intended to be made.

For the record I like Augustine but I also liked Woli as well.
Take no prisoners

Pete

it may not be a coincidence that both Woli and Augustine aren't signed for positions that we drafted higher last year i.e. Clercius and Chris-Ike. It may be a good thing that we are finally giving younger players more opportunities to play and improve. In the past we have seemed reluctant to do that when we have a vet in place.

TecnoGenius

Quote from: Blue In BC on January 29, 2025, 11:27:53 PMFor the record I like Augustine but I also liked Woli as well.

Difference is I can't remember Johnny ever being hurt.  He gets reps at ST and very limited reps at RB.  That's real easy on a body.  That should help his longevity and maintain his value.

Plus the fact Woli was fairly highly paid for a "2nd tier NAT WR", and Johnny is paid basically what a non-rookie NAT RB backup is worth.
Never go full Rider!

TecnoGenius

Quote from: Pete on January 30, 2025, 12:00:49 AMit may not be a coincidence that both Woli and Augustine aren't signed for positions that we drafted higher last year i.e. Clercius and Chris-Ike.

If Brady goes down mid-game week 1, I feel very comfortable rolling with Johnny the rest of the game.  I would not have that same feeling with Ike.  He's still exceptionally green and a complete unknown at RB.  He's also a completely different body style compared to Johnny.
Never go full Rider!

Blue In BC

Quote from: TecnoGenius on January 30, 2025, 05:21:44 AMDifference is I can't remember Johnny ever being hurt.  He gets reps at ST and very limited reps at RB.  That's real easy on a body.  That should help his longevity and maintain his value.

Plus the fact Woli was fairly highly paid for a "2nd tier NAT WR", and Johnny is paid basically what a non-rookie NAT RB backup is worth.


That's the point. If he was earning $110K then that is not what a non rookie Canadian is earning to play mostly ST.

Woli was a starting receiver and very productive on offence for several seasons. For the same money he was a far better option when healthy.  Nearly 3,000 yards provided on 227 receptions.
Take no prisoners

Blue In BC

Quote from: TecnoGenius on January 30, 2025, 05:23:19 AMIf Brady goes down mid-game week 1, I feel very comfortable rolling with Johnny the rest of the game.  I would not have that same feeling with Ike.  He's still exceptionally green and a complete unknown at RB.  He's also a completely different body style compared to Johnny.


If Oliveria goes down during a game, we probably move more towards the passing game. Augustine would get the running plays but IMO the defence would essentially shut down the run game.

It's not a matter of who gets the in game plays due to injury. It's who becomes the starting RB in event Oliveria is lost for 1 or more games.

IMO we'll have an import on the PR or as a returner that might be that guy.
Take no prisoners

Throw Long Bannatyne

#63
Quote from: Blue In BC on January 30, 2025, 12:44:53 PMIf Oliveria goes down during a game, we probably move more towards the passing game. Augustine would get the running plays but IMO the defence would essentially shut down the run game.

It's not a matter of who gets the in game plays due to injury. It's who becomes the starting RB in event Oliveria is lost for 1 or more games.

IMO we'll have an import on the PR or as a returner that might be that guy.

People tend to downplay Augustine's ability but every time he's gone into a game he's done very well, going back to the days he replaced Harris for a couple of games  during his suspension. He's probably the most gifted shake and bake RB on the roster and came out of college already fully developed. Still recall his performance at the CFL Combine in Regina where he blew away all other RB's and receivers in drills and scrimmages, he looked like a man competing against boys. 

MCI might be better at FB, he has some RB skills but he's mostly a bruiser, I think he's 3 grades below what Johnny can do as far as quickness and agility when running the ball.


Pigskin

JA27 is very reliable, and can also play on teams. He hasn't missed a game in the last three years. He also has a lifetime rush avg. of 5.7 yards. Were Chris-Ike was injured for 9 games last season and has no O stats in the CFL. Chris  Ike has the size and excellent speed 4.51/40, but can he stay health.
Don't go through life looking in the rearview mirror.

Blue In BC

Quote from: Pigskin on January 30, 2025, 04:35:09 PMJA27 is very reliable, and can also play on teams. He hasn't missed a game in the last three years. He also has a lifetime rush avg. of 5.7 yards. Were Chris-Ike was injured for 9 games last season and has no O stats in the CFL. Chris  Ike has the size and excellent speed 4.51/40, but can he stay health.

Lots of players spent time on the IR that were not necessarily injured. Chris-Ike may have been healthy but to get him or any player on the AR requires taking another player off.

In 2024 Augustine had the least amount of carries ( 27 ), for the least amount of yards ( 135 ) and the lowest yardage per carry of his career. Don't you have any thoughts about why he's used to infrequently to aid keeping Oliveria healthy?

He'll be 32 by early July. 6 seasons and 222 carries in total. 67 games played. Will he be re-signed? IDK but a case could be made for either result.
Take no prisoners

Pete

JA is getting up there at 32 esp for running back.
We likely need to look at other options:
Chris Ike - we really dont know what he can bring, JA was always the option ly.
Do we get a kickoff returner that can also be rb? ie Stefan Logan
We likely have a import rb on practice roster if BO gets injured

Blue In BC

Back to Woli. I haven't heard anything definitive about his rehab or availability for TC. I wouldn't be surprised if he's getting calls from other teams to find out and possible SMS.

Once the bulk of transactions happen after the 1st week of free agency, we'll see if gets another chance. I'm not sure he wants to play elsewhere but things can change.
Take no prisoners

Pigskin

Quote from: Blue In BC on January 30, 2025, 04:57:15 PMLots of players spent time on the IR that were not necessarily injured. Chris-Ike may have been healthy but to get him or any player on the AR requires taking another player off.

In 2024 Augustine had the least amount of carries ( 27 ), for the least amount of yards ( 135 ) and the lowest yardage per carry of his career. Don't you have any thoughts about why he's used to infrequently to aid keeping Oliveria healthy?

He'll be 32 by early July. 6 seasons and 222 carries in total. 67 games played.

I question a lot of thing the Bombers do with there backup players. Especially at the RB and QB position. JA27 is a reliable experienced backup RB that can play a lot of roles on this team. Excellent insurance policy for Oliveira.   
Don't go through life looking in the rearview mirror.

Throw Long Bannatyne

#69
Quote from: Blue In BC on January 30, 2025, 05:09:22 PMBack to Woli. I haven't heard anything definitive about his rehab or availability for TC. I wouldn't be surprised if he's getting calls from other teams to find out and possible SMS.

Once the bulk of transactions happen after the 1st week of free agency, we'll see if gets another chance. I'm not sure he wants to play elsewhere but things can change.

Woli has a family now so his perspective may have changed from earlier in his career, he should be able to play 3-4 more years if he wants to. I think he'll be picked up as he likely has big fans in Buck in BC and Dru Brown in Ottawa.

Pete

I wonder if there's a chance BC picks up both Streveler and Woli. With Adams gone there's an opportunity and if Mcinnis ends up going to Calgary even more so, I wouldn't want to play BC with those two augmenting their offense.

Blue In BC

Quote from: Pete on January 30, 2025, 09:33:26 PMI wonder if there's a chance BC picks up both Streveler and Woli. With Adams gone there's an opportunity and if Mcinnis ends up going to Calgary even more so, I wouldn't want to play BC with those two augmenting their offense.


Interesting and reasonable thought. However, losing McInnis would be a big blow. His output towers over what Woli did in any season.

Stev might be a better # 3 QB for the Lions but his SMS would be more than their current back ups fighting for # 3.

Lions are still trying to shed SMS cost and still re-sign their potential free agents.

I think I agree that Ottawa might be a fit for both. OTOH, Redblacks have some athletic back up QB's. It might take them trading someone.
Take no prisoners

TecnoGenius

Quote from: Pete on January 30, 2025, 05:05:09 PMDo we get a kickoff returner that can also be rb? ie Stefan Logan
We likely have a import rb on practice roster if BO gets injured

Having one of your main (and important) starters also doing returns always scares the heck out of me.  Returners get injured all the time.

It would be especially bad if your #1 starting RB was your returner as there is usually no on-par backup available.  You might be able to make it work if he's a DB or WR, as then you have plenty of guys dressed who can fill in.  However, again, you don't want it to be your #1 best WR.

Just look at how often Logan got creamed.
Never go full Rider!

Sir Blue and Gold

Could definitely be your in-game running back backup but you'd still want someone on the PR you have some confidence in if it's a long term thing. For us though, Michael Chris-Ike definitely has the inside track in that role this year.

Throw Long Bannatyne

Quote from: Pete on January 30, 2025, 09:33:26 PMI wonder if there's a chance BC picks up both Streveler and Woli. With Adams gone there's an opportunity and if Mcinnis ends up going to Calgary even more so, I wouldn't want to play BC with those two augmenting their offense.


The Lions also have Natl. Jevon Cottoy 6'5" 230 lbs to go along with 6'-5" 210 lb. McInnis, makes it pretty hard for Woli. to come in as anything other than a backup.  Sure wish the Bombers could draft Natl. receivers of that size.

TecnoGenius

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 31, 2025, 02:53:26 AMThe Lions also have Natl. Jevon Cottoy 6'5" 230 lbs to go along with 6'-5" 210 lb. McInnis, makes it pretty hard for Woli. to come in as anything other than a backup.  Sure wish the Bombers could draft Natl. receivers of that size.

I can't recall the last time we had a REC that size work out well, either NAT or IMP!  Agudosi would have qualified but he was a huge bust.  We just can't find a way to utilize the huge body types like other teams can.
Never go full Rider!

Pete

Quote from: TecnoGenius on January 30, 2025, 10:26:08 PMHaving one of your main (and important) starters also doing returns always scares the heck out of me.  Returners get injured all the time.

It would be especially bad if your #1 starting RB was your returner as there is usually no on-par backup available.  You might be able to make it work if he's a DB or WR, as then you have plenty of guys dressed who can fill in.  However, again, you don't want it to be your #1 best WR.

Just look at how often Logan got creamed.


If stefan was your main returner. he could be a change of pace rb to spell/backup Olivera. As I mentioned if Olivera got hurt then a pr rb would come in as starter

dd

Its always puzzled me why the Bombers don't use JA27 more in their game planning. Yes he'd be taking yards away from BO, but it would also give BO a rest and less pounding on his body and JA gives us a change of pace, scat back type of RB vs the bruiser. I thought for sure when Collaros injured his hand, we d come back with a 2 back backfield and run motion, counters etc with the 2 of them and pound the ball down torontos throat. Nope, we didn't bring in an extra running back, we threw the ball!!! ridiculous game planning and misuse of talent.

Jesse

Quote from: dd on January 31, 2025, 03:34:37 AMIts always puzzled me why the Bombers don't use JA27 more in their game planning. Yes he'd be taking yards away from BO, but it would also give BO a rest and less pounding on his body and JA gives us a change of pace, scat back type of RB vs the bruiser. I thought for sure when Collaros injured his hand, we d come back with a 2 back backfield and run motion, counters etc with the 2 of them and pound the ball down torontos throat. Nope, we didn't bring in an extra running back, we threw the ball!!! ridiculous game planning and misuse of talent.

I feel like a guy like Brady, the more you give him, the more you get out of him. Taking him on and off the field just interrupts the flow.

The Grey Cup game was ridiculous, though.
My wife is amazing!

theaardvark

Quote from: TecnoGenius on January 31, 2025, 03:01:20 AMI can't recall the last time we had a REC that size work out well, either NAT or IMP!  Agudosi would have qualified but he was a huge bust.  We just can't find a way to utilize the huge body types like other teams can.

Clercius at 6'2, 217 is kinda on the small side...
Unabashed positron.  Blue koolaid in my fridge.  I wear my blue sunglasses at night.  Homer, d'oh.

Throw Long Bannatyne

Quote from: theaardvark on January 31, 2025, 03:49:30 PMClercius at 6'2, 217 is kinda on the small side...

BOLO was 6'-4 225 lbs. but never got much chance to show his stuff, he looked pretty good in Hamilton last season.

blue_gold_84

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 31, 2025, 04:18:00 PMBOLO was 6'-4 225 lbs. but never got much chance to show his stuff, he looked pretty good in Hamilton last season.

He got just as many opportunities in Winnipeg over two seasons as he did in Hamilton last season.
#forthew
лава Україні!
We are now in The Find Out Phase, eh.
井の中の蛙大海を知らず

TecnoGenius

Quote from: dd on January 31, 2025, 03:34:37 AMIts always puzzled me why the Bombers don't use JA27 more in their game planning. Yes he'd be taking yards away from BO, but it would also give BO a rest and less pounding on his body and JA gives us a change of pace

We've never done that when we had a league-best franchise RB.  McCrae had the same problem, and Flanders, and Lankford...

We're never a 1a / 1b back team, like CGY, TOR, etc.  We're more like a #1 and #3 back team.  The backup never sees the field until injury or garbage time.

And that's perfectly fine because it works so well for us.  The 1a/1b teams usually have a lackluster ground game.

I also think Brady wants it that way (and AH before him).  They want the stats.  They want to be league-best.
Never go full Rider!

TecnoGenius

Quote from: theaardvark on January 31, 2025, 03:49:30 PMClercius at 6'2, 217 is kinda on the small side...

I said "that work out well".  Whether Clercius "works out well" remains to be seen.  From his rookie year I'd say he did ok.  What remains to be seen is if he's the next McInnis... and if we can utilize a McInnis style NAT properly.
Never go full Rider!

TecnoGenius

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on January 31, 2025, 04:18:00 PMBOLO was 6'-4 225 lbs. but never got much chance to show his stuff, he looked pretty good in Hamilton last season.

Proves my point.  Clearly we didn't know (or care) how to use him to his top ability.  We've always done better with the lanky REC (Lawler), tough 5'10" inside RECs (Woli, Bailey), and water bugs (Dress).

If we had 2015 Eric Rogers on the team, he'd probably only get 500Y here.  It's just who we are.
Never go full Rider!

dd

Quote from: TecnoGenius on February 01, 2025, 06:02:56 AMWe've never done that when we had a league-best franchise RB.  McCrae had the same problem, and Flanders, and Lankford...

We're never a 1a / 1b back team, like CGY, TOR, etc.  We're more like a #1 and #3 back team.  The backup never sees the field until injury or garbage time.

And that's perfectly fine because it works so well for us.  The 1a/1b teams usually have a lackluster ground game.

I also think Brady wants it that way (and AH before him).  They want the stats.  They want to be league-best.

Until they get hurt. RB is a demanding position on the body and we use the run more than most if not all teams in the league. I m shocked BO hasn't had an injury like Stanback, Butler, etc. He started the year off hurt. Its a matter of managing the body and ensuring when we can give him a rest , we do. To heck with the personal stats, its a team game. JA has been a total team guy through all of this. I still think he's the better pure runner vs the brawler.

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Pigskin

Don't go through life looking in the rearview mirror.

theaardvark

#88
Makes sense, Goevia knows him well...  good fit for them.

Have to wonder if there is a spot for Streveler there now...
Unabashed positron.  Blue koolaid in my fridge.  I wear my blue sunglasses at night.  Homer, d'oh.

Waffler

Quote from: TecnoGenius on February 01, 2025, 06:07:01 AMProves my point.  Clearly we didn't know (or care) how to use him to his top ability.

335 yards with Hamilton and they are ok letting him go to free agency so I ask what is BOLO's top ability? It would seem career backup. I hardly blame the Bombers. At least we got him CFL ready.
Buried in the essentially random digits of pi, you can find your eight-digit birthdate. (Is that a wink from God or just a lot of digits?) - David G. Myers
__________________________________________________
Everything seems stupid when it fails.  - Fyodor Dostoevsky

J5V

Quote from: Stats Junkie on February 02, 2025, 07:46:02 PMDrew Wolitarsky has been signed by Hamilton

https://www.ticats.ca/2025/02/02/tiger-cats-sign-national-receiver-wolitarsky/
Best of luck to you Drew. I'm looking forward to seeing your guitar-playing celebrations in the end zone.
Go Bombers!

dd

Knew he'd be signed by someone, it was a mistake by us letting him go, we wasn't a big $$ hit and gave us ratio help.

J5V

Quote from: dd on February 02, 2025, 11:26:57 PMKnew he'd be signed by someone, it was a mistake by us letting him go, we wasn't a big $$ hit and gave us ratio help.
Well, maybe. We need to see how it plays out. No one is immune to player turnover. I suspect this is the reality of a salary cap league.
Go Bombers!

Throw Long Bannatyne

Quote from: dd on February 02, 2025, 11:26:57 PMKnew he'd be signed by someone, it was a mistake by us letting him go, we wasn't a big $$ hit and gave us ratio help.

Hamilton needed a reliable Natl. receiver, they've gone through so many bad ones over the years, always a weakness.

DM83

Surprise and disgustful move by the club. What person is going to replace him? I guess that means Lawler will be re-signed. Or would they spend  an American on a fifth receiver spot?

He never disapointed.  Good Luck!

Jesse

Quote from: DM83 on February 03, 2025, 09:55:06 AMSurprise and disgustful move by the club. What person is going to replace him? I guess that means Lawler will be re-signed. Or would they spend  an American on a fifth receiver spot?

He never disapointed.  Good Luck!

Multiple teams are aggressively pursuing Lawler, he may be gone.
My wife is amazing!

theaardvark

Ham had Oleary Orange last year in this role.  Woli (if healthy) is a big upgrade there...
Unabashed positron.  Blue koolaid in my fridge.  I wear my blue sunglasses at night.  Homer, d'oh.

Throw Long Bannatyne

Quote from: theaardvark on February 03, 2025, 02:58:06 PMHam had Oleary Orange last year in this role.  Woli (if healthy) is a big upgrade there...

Not from a physical standpoint, BOLO also has pretty good speed, I think Woli had the advantage of being the incumbent and having a closer relationship with Zach.

Blue In BC

Take no prisoners

Waffler

Quote from: Blue In BC on February 03, 2025, 08:14:21 PMWhich ones?

I have only read "multiple" teams.  Hamilton the only mention and they are said to be pursuing him aggressively.
Buried in the essentially random digits of pi, you can find your eight-digit birthdate. (Is that a wink from God or just a lot of digits?) - David G. Myers
__________________________________________________
Everything seems stupid when it fails.  - Fyodor Dostoevsky

Blue In BC

Quote from: Waffler on February 03, 2025, 08:20:11 PMI have only read "multiple" teams.  Hamilton the only mention and they are said to be pursuing him aggressively.

Interesting but they just re-signed Smith. Dunbar has yet to be re-signed.

Several teams are having issues trying to re-sign or re-negotiate their top receivers. Edmonton and BC come to mind.

I could see BC wanting Lawler but they already have some SMS issues.
Take no prisoners

blue_or_die

Quote from: DM83 on February 03, 2025, 09:55:06 AMSurprise and disgustful move by the club. What person is going to replace him? I guess that means Lawler will be re-signed. Or would they spend  an American on a fifth receiver spot?

He never disapointed.  Good Luck!

Clercius. He did great last year.

Look, I love Woli a ton as a guy and he was a clutch player. But at the end of the day, he's a fifth receiver and some of you are acting like we just cut Zach Collaros.
#Ride?

dd

Quote from: Blue In BC on February 03, 2025, 08:34:45 PMInteresting but they just re-signed Smith. Dunbar has yet to be re-signed.

Several teams are having issues trying to re-sign or re-negotiate their top receivers. Edmonton and BC come to mind.

I could see BC wanting Lawler but they already have some SMS issues.
BC is doing salary dump at receiver having dumped Hollins and Hatcher, who are both very decent receivers. I can see Hamilton taking a run at lawler

Pete

Quote from: dd on February 04, 2025, 01:46:00 AMBC is doing salary dump at receiver having dumped Hollins and Hatcher, who are both very decent receivers. I can see Hamilton taking a run at lawler
Looks like they solved some of their dump issues with hatcher re signing on a restructured contract. but then salary cap isn't an issue with bc