TC battles to watch

[Blue In BC]

IMO this is going to be a transitional TC more so than in recent years. I'm not saying that is a bad thing. There are spots to be won. Barring injuries. This is stating the obvious to some degree but lets get the ball rolling.

1. LG: This could flip to an import but Wallace and Eli are in the mix. New rookie OL can't be written out either.

2. WIL: Wilson, J. Jones and Ayers are a great group. I have an expectation but this is a TBD.

3. CB: Parker is pencilled in. He might even by inked in to start. OTOH, we'll have a dozen imports looked at.

4. Safety: I think this is Griffin's to lose but it may be a battle. At worst he sticks as a DI.

5. QB: 6 candidates is more than I recall in any recent TC. We may see one released before TC?

[theaardvark]

I didn't realize that Dolegala was still on the roster.  Have to wonder if he has been offered his release but want to come to camp.  Not sure if he'd get a look anywhere else right now.

It is a deep QB room, for sure, and Elgersma will be a wildcard depending on how his minicamps go.  Patterson has a low enough $SMS hit that he can sit on the IR with no issue for insurance, not sure he doesn't get picked off on the PR. 

Having 5-6 actual live arms in camp will be awesome.

[Blue In BC]

I didn't realize that Dolegala was still on the roster.  Have to wonder if he has been offered his release but want to come to camp.  Not sure if he'd get a look anywhere else right now.

It is a deep QB room, for sure, and Elgersma will be a wildcard depending on how his minicamps go.  Patterson has a low enough $SMS hit that he can sit on the IR with no issue for insurance, not sure he doesn't get picked off on the PR. 

Having 5-6 actual live arms in camp will be awesome.

I'm not in favour of parking a QB with a $75K-$100K on the 1 game IR for most of the season. That's just not a sound business decision. Bombers haven't even had a QB on the PR for an extended period. Every team has the same issue and has a 4th QB that will be on speed dial at worst.

Elgersma is the wildcard and I'm not sure how that works out roster wise.

6 QB's in TC is not necessarily an advantage since none gets enough reps. TC is short and pre-season as well.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

I'm not in favour of parking a QB with a $75K-$100K on the 1 game IR for most of the season. That's just not a sound business decision. Bombers haven't even had a QB on the PR for an extended period. Every team has the same issue and has a 4th QB that will be on speed dial at worst.

Elgersma is the wildcard and I'm not sure how that works out roster wise.

6 QB's in TC is not necessarily an advantage since none gets enough reps. TC is short and pre-season as well.

I suspect Strev. won't be ready for TC, thus Paterson. Dolegala is on his last chance to prove he belongs in the league, maybe he will surprise all.

[Blue In BC]

I suspect Strev. won't be ready for TC, thus Paterson. Dolegala is on his last chance to prove he belongs in the league, maybe he will surprise all.

That covers a lot of ground if Strev is not ready. He may end up on 6 game IR to start the season. If that's true there will be increased pressure for both our # 2 and # 3 QB choices. Possibly different decisions based on Strev on IR. Upside as well as immediate readiness to play if necessary.

I liked what Wilson showed us in 2024 but now with a Canadian choice, the # 3 QB changes if we have an IR situation. We might actually see a QB on the PR to start the season.  We don't usually do that but we don't usually have 6 QB's either.

Dolegala may be on the outside regardless. Football is a tough business.

[TecnoGenius]

1. LG: This could flip to an import but Wallace and Eli are in the mix. New rookie OL can't be written out either.

So if Wallace is showing a bit worse than Randolph, do we still start Wallace, hoping he'll improve?  Obviously a NAT is always preferred.

But I want much better week 1 OL performance vs last season.  We can't go 2-4 like we did last time.

[dd]

So if Wallace is showing a bit worse than Randolph, do we still start Wallace, hoping he'll improve?  Obviously a NAT is always preferred.

But I want much better week 1 OL performance vs last season.  We can't go 2-4 like we did last time.

I guess it depends on our ratio situation. If there are no concerns, start the best player regardless of passport. If we're pressed to make ratio , Wallace may be pushed into service even if Randolph is the better player. We lost 2 big NAT performers in Ford and Dobson, I am hopeful Wallace can step into the guard position, he certainly has the size and weight, but does he have the technique...we'll see.

[Sir Blue and Gold]

That covers a lot of ground if Strev is not ready. He may end up on 6 game IR to start the season. If that's true there will be increased pressure for both our # 2 and # 3 QB choices. Possibly different decisions based on Strev on IR. Upside as well as immediate readiness to play if necessary.

I liked what Wilson showed us in 2024 but now with a Canadian choice, the # 3 QB changes if we have an IR situation. We might actually see a QB on the PR to start the season.  We don't usually do that but we don't usually have 6 QB's either.

Dolegala may be on the outside regardless. Football is a tough business.

QB chat probably deserves it's own thread. Going to be super fun.

My early guess:

Game day roster

Collaros
Dolegala
Patterson

Released

Wilson
Streveler (IR if he's still hurt or we want to be super nice)

Practice Roster
Elgersma

[TecnoGenius]

Collaros
Dolegala
Patterson

Nah.  Neither greenie QB is good at SY.

So you need Wilson as 3rd, or Strev if he's healthy.

Strev will hang around on 6GIR until he gets a chance to show if he can still do SY or not.

The only possible fly in the ointment is the new draft guy, but his body type and resume doesn't hint at a SY role.

One of the greenie guys will have to go.  Unless we want to hide some on IR and hold them as trade bait if/when the other teams get injuries.  Think TOR that year they held Collaros + like 26 other decent QBs.  (Of course, KW would never do that as it's KISS all day every day in WFC.)

[theaardvark]

QB chat probably deserves it's own thread. Going to be super fun.

My early guess:

Game day roster

Collaros
Dolegala
Patterson

Released

Wilson
Streveler (IR if he's still hurt or we want to be super nice)

Practice Roster
Elgersma

Collaros
Wilson
Streveler or Dolegala if Streveler can't go

IR Patterson

Elgersma in for Streveler/Dolegala, not gonna be ready to start the season likely, not going to survive the PR, he will be plucked.  Maybe IR for a couple weeks. 

I know we don't IR/PR QB's in the past, but this might be necessary.

[TecnoGenius]

I know we don't IR/PR QB's in the past, but this might be necessary.

Every other team does.  But Mafia likes to play it real clean.

I guess there's a first time for everything.  If we can hold a QB or 3 as tradebait, I wonder what's out there we may be interested in... Or a nice juicy early 1RDP in '26 to grab a top hoggie?  Hey, a guy can dream...

[Sir Blue and Gold]

Nah.  Neither greenie QB is good at SY.

So you need Wilson as 3rd, or Strev if he's healthy.

Strev will hang around on 6GIR until he gets a chance to show if he can still do SY or not.

The only possible fly in the ointment is the new draft guy, but his body type and resume doesn't hint at a SY role.

One of the greenie guys will have to go.  Unless we want to hide some on IR and hold them as trade bait if/when the other teams get injuries.  Think TOR that year they held Collaros + like 26 other decent QBs.  (Of course, KW would never do that as it's KISS all day every day in WFC.)

Make your picks! Let's see your depth chart guess, week 1

[Blue In BC]

Another QB added to TC roster. IIRC he was on our neg list earlier.

https://3downnation.com/2025/05/01/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-tennessee-chattanooga-qb-chase-artopoeus/

Again, I thought we wouldn't have 6 QB's in TC. Now potentially 7. Injury to Strev seems more probable he's headed for IR to start the season. It does make me think we release a QB soon.

The plot thickens.

[Sir Blue and Gold]

Another QB added to TC roster. IIRC he was on our neg list earlier.

https://3downnation.com/2025/05/01/winnipeg-blue-bombers-sign-tennessee-chattanooga-qb-chase-artopoeus/

Again, I thought we wouldn't have 6 QB's in TC. Now potentially 7. Injury to Strev seems more probable he's headed for IR to start the season. It does make me think we release a QB soon.

The plot thickens.

Could be - that's a ton of arms. It's also reasonable to think two steps ahead at the QB position - if this is Zach's last year you need to have his replacement THIS year. and based on the Blue Bombers actions I'd say this is as big a tell as you're going to get. We haven't seen this much attention to backup QB probably ever, under Walters and O'Shea.

I think we're going to take the three most talented QBs behind Collaros (stashing one on the PR if possible or IR as a last resort) and next year we'll have an open competition for QB one.

[Blue In BC]

3rd down reports that Streveler is healthy and ready for TC. We'll know soon enough.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Nah.  Neither greenie QB is good at SY.

So you need Wilson as 3rd, or Strev if he's healthy.

Strev will hang around on 6GIR until he gets a chance to show if he can still do SY or not.

The only possible fly in the ointment is the new draft guy, but his body type and resume doesn't hint at a SY role.

One of the greenie guys will have to go.  Unless we want to hide some on IR and hold them as trade bait if/when the other teams get injuries.  Think TOR that year they held Collaros + like 26 other decent QBs.  (Of course, KW would never do that as it's KISS all day every day in WFC.)

Pretty sure Patterson was used as the SY QB in Sask. last season, beating out Dolegala and Fine, don't know how good he was but I remember he's fairly mobile and can run decently.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

3rd down reports that Streveler is healthy and ready for TC. We'll know soon enough.

I believe Strev has indicated he's well ahead of schedule but he still needs to pass his TC physical, which could be why the Bombers have lined up other options.

[theaardvark]

TC invites can be quick and dirty.  If a guy comes in, shows extremely well, he can earn a longer look.  But most likely will flame out quick.

Elgersma is a different option, being a NAT.  Not sure how NAT QB influences the AR, but it does count on the field.  Which is why teams are drafting / developing them.

We didn't use that pick just to let him get cut without some serious consideration.  The fact he has been playing 3 down/wide field/12 player/waggle ball all his life makes the learning curve that  much shorter for him.  Its just the speed and complexity of pro ball that he has to ramp up on.

Question:

Can he play teams?  If so, can we roster him as a FB or something?  6'4, 216, maybe SY guy as well?  Can we carry 4 QB on the active roster if one is designated as a FB?

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

TC invites can be quick and dirty.  If a guy comes in, shows extremely well, he can earn a longer look.  But most likely will flame out quick.

Elgersma is a different option, being a NAT.  Not sure how NAT QB influences the AR, but it does count on the field.  Which is why teams are drafting / developing them.

We didn't use that pick just to let him get cut without some serious consideration.  The fact he has been playing 3 down/wide field/12 player/waggle ball all his life makes the learning curve that  much shorter for him.  Its just the speed and complexity of pro ball that he has to ramp up on.

Question:

Can he play teams?  If so, can we roster him as a FB or something?  6'4, 216, maybe SY guy as well?  Can we carry 4 QB on the active roster if one is designated as a FB?

Elgersma switched from hockey to QB in grade 10, so still very raw, go watch Walters interview, he talks a lot about how they plan to manage him.

[Jesse]

Yes. Basically just don't count Elgersma in the discussion. He's here to soak up all he can but there are no expectations on him this year.

[Pigskin]

The Bombers have already started to shave down the roster with the release of Dolegala. I expect a few more players released before TC starts.

[blue_gold_84]

The Bombers have already started to shave down the roster with the release of Dolegala. I expect a few more players released before TC starts.

Makes me wonder if Streveler's healthy. Would be nice, IMO.

[Sir Blue and Gold]

Redoing my chart since I was already wrong:

Game day roster

Collaros
Patterson
Wilson

Released

Streveler (IR if he's still hurt or we want to be super nice)

Practice Roster
Elgersma

[theaardvark]

If Wilson finishes this TC, then he is the heir apparent for Zach.  They don't invest this much time otherwise.  If he doesn't continue his development, they could go with Patterson in that role.

Depending on the Elgersma timeline coming north, he could end up on the AR for SY is Streveler doesn't work in that role.

I don't see Streveler as Zach's replacement, but he is effective in SY and changing up the looks.  And he just loves to play and be part of the team. How much the team thinks that he is worth, and depending on what the other QB's perform like, it could be his last training camp.  Not sure if he gets a call elsewhere, or even if that interests him.

Its nice to have a lot of options

[Sir Blue and Gold]

If Wilson finishes this TC, then he is the heir apparent for Zach.  They don't invest this much time otherwise.  If he doesn't continue his development, they could go with Patterson in that role.

Depending on the Elgersma timeline coming north, he could end up on the AR for SY is Streveler doesn't work in that role.

I don't see Streveler as Zach's replacement, but he is effective in SY and changing up the looks.  And he just loves to play and be part of the team. How much the team thinks that he is worth, and depending on what the other QB's perform like, it could be his last training camp.  Not sure if he gets a call elsewhere, or even if that interests him.

Its nice to have a lot of options

Wilson beat out nobody in camp last year to make the team and all the Bombers have done since is sign and add as many quarterbacks as they can to this year's camp.

Maybe he'll win and job and maybe he won't but this year he'll actually have to earn it. All last year's "time investment" has earned him is a leg up in understanding the CFL. It's not insignificant but if he was thought of as a true heir apparent they're not signing 45 quarerbacks and drafting another one.

Wilson has accomplished less in the CFL than Dolegala, Patterson and Streveler

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Wilson beat out nobody in camp last year to make the team and all the Bombers have done since is sign and add as many quarterbacks as they can to this year's camp.

Maybe he'll win and job and maybe he won't but this year he'll actually have to earn it. All last year's "time investment" has earned him is a leg up in understanding the CFL. It's not insignificant but if he was thought of as a true heir apparent they're not signing 45 quarerbacks and drafting another one.

Wilson has accomplished less in the CFL than Dolegala, Patterson and Streveler

Wilson came out of nowhere to outperform Eric Barriere last TC of which expectations were super high coming out of Eastern Wash. with a resume loaded with records and achievements.

I don't care what they do with all the other QB's they've accumulated behind Zach, I want to see them invest the most in Wilson and give him actual playing time, as he's the only potential Zach replacement I  see on the roster.  He's shown he has great physical tools, this season he has to demonstrate he has the mental tools to compliment them.

[Blue In BC]

Wilson came out of nowhere to outperform Eric Barriere last TC of which expectations were super high coming out of Eastern Wash. with a resume loaded with records and achievements.

I don't care what they do with all the other QB's they've accumulated behind Zach, I want to see them invest the most in Wilson and give him actual playing time, as he's the only potential Zach replacement I  see on the roster.  He's shown he has great physical tools, this season he has to demonstrate he has the mental tools to compliment them.

There was another QB that got a brief look. I wouldn't say Wilson didn't beat out any competition but it wasn't extreme.

I have no idea if he survives this TC and at the moment expect him to be on our PR. It's not a given though that he is even offered that.

[Pete]

Redoing my chart since I was already wrong:

Game day roster

Collaros
Patterson
Wilson

Released

Streveler (IR if he's still hurt or we want to be super nice)

Practice Roster
Elgersma

the only risk is losing Elgersma (if he even signs)
there's nothing wrong with
Collaros
Streveler
Elgersma

If Collaros got hurt Streveler would likely go in anyway. The third qb is basically holding the clipboar

[Sir Blue and Gold]

There was another QB that got a brief look. I wouldn't say Wilson didn't beat out any competition but it wasn't extreme.

I have no idea if he survives this TC and at the moment expect him to be on our PR. It's not a given though that he is even offered that.

Barriere was such a disaster he didn't even make it to the end of camp. They brought in Darren Grainger when camp was almost almost finished (May 25). He stuck around a week.

I'm not saying Wilson isn't the guy but he absolutely had virtually zero actual competition.

[towelie]

Collaros
Patterson

Are definitely 1-2, minus something crazy in camp...

I genuinely believe Wilson and Strev battle for the SY/3 spot. Other being released.

Elgersma PR for this season

[TecnoGenius]

Can he play teams?  If so, can we roster him as a FB or something?  6'4, 216, maybe SY guy as well?  Can we carry 4 QB on the active roster if one is designated as a FB?

Our best SY in the last decade have been:

6'1
6'1
6'1
6'3 <--- my favorite

6'4 seems a little tall, but not outside the realm of possibility.  There's still an aspect of "sneaking" required to sneak.

I'm not sure there's any gain to having the #2 a NAT?  Maybe you can add 1 more IMP on for the few snaps when he's on the field?

[TecnoGenius]

Pretty sure Patterson was used as the SY QB in Sask. last season, beating out Dolegala and Fine, don't know how good he was but I remember he's fairly mobile and can run decently.

Patterson was mediocre at best in SY.  He looked "wrong" doing it.  I don't think he wanted to be doing it.  It's just that SSK didn't have any other options since they don't seem to bother rostering a dedicated, master "SY guy".

Patterson is an aspiring #1, I don't think he wants to hang around and be the next Dom Davis or Prukop.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Barriere was such a disaster he didn't even make it to the end of camp. They brought in Darren Grainger when camp was almost almost finished (May 25). He stuck around a week.

I'm not saying Wilson isn't the guy but he absolutely had virtually zero actual competition.

Right, didn't he re-sign with the Bombers then decide to retire?  Bryan Scott also stopped in for a cup of coffee before re-signing with the Argos.

[TecnoGenius]

Could be - that's a ton of arms. It's also reasonable to think two steps ahead at the QB position - if this is Zach's last year you need to have his replacement THIS year.

Not if you're just going to FA the problem away in FA'26.  If we want to pony up big, the world is our oyster.  What QB who is in FA wouldn't want to come play here?

The only problem is, we haven't had to pony up for a big name FA QB in forever.  Drew Willy was probably the last one we had to "splash" a bit for.  Both Zach and Nichols signed for reasonable money when first coming here, as both were thought to be headed nowhere.

Especially with the "tamper period", it may be easier than ever to buy top talent away.

[TecnoGenius]

If Wilson finishes this TC, then he is the heir apparent for Zach.  They don't invest this much time otherwise.  If he doesn't continue his development, they could go with Patterson in that role.

2 words: Dom Davis.  3 seasons with WPG.  We wasted a ton of time on him.

Wilson staying on the roster thru '25 says nothing.  In fact, the Dom experience may teach us to cut bait a lot faster on this (potential) type of QB.

[TecnoGenius]

Wilson has accomplished less in the CFL than Dolegala, Patterson and Streveler

Yup.  And Wilson had his big huge chance in the GC.  He gets that passing Kenny-corner TD and it's a whole different story.  He could have put more air on it (why would anyone underthrow Kenny??).

The series Wilson had was enough to convince Mafia we had to keep fielding a ruined Zach.

Wilson seems dull and uninterested.  It's good to be even-keel, but not to the point of seeming lifeless.  He should have come in that game and acted like Chad Kelly did, and he should have run a few times after a fake to Brady.

I'm not saying he can't still be "it", but he's running out of chances to show it.

[Blueforlife]

Nah.  Neither greenie QB is good at SY.

So you need Wilson as 3rd, or Strev if he's healthy.

Strev will hang around on 6GIR until he gets a chance to show if he can still do SY or not.

The only possible fly in the ointment is the new draft guy, but his body type and resume doesn't hint at a SY role.

One of the greenie guys will have to go.  Unless we want to hide some on IR and hold them as trade bait if/when the other teams get injuries.  Think TOR that year they held Collaros + like 26 other decent QBs.  (Of course, KW would never do that as it's KISS all day every day in WFC.)

You called it!

Wilson beat out nobody in camp last year to make the team and all the Bombers have done since is sign and add as many quarterbacks as they can to this year's camp.

Maybe he'll win and job and maybe he won't but this year he'll actually have to earn it. All last year's "time investment" has earned him is a leg up in understanding the CFL. It's not insignificant but if he was thought of as a true heir apparent they're not signing 45 quarerbacks and drafting another one.

Wilson has accomplished less in the CFL than Dolegala, Patterson and Streveler

Understatement on what Wilson did to earn a spot imo, you make it sound like he didn't earn it which is clear he did, guy has the skills, a pro camp for any CFL team for any position is extremely competitive and the guys that earn a PR or roster spot have earned their dues, imo

Agree it's telling that we have so many fresh faces and yes a battle for the ages and agree way more quality than last

I like Wilson but too early to know

I like continuity and like to slowly develop our talent

I also like that we have more options at QB than ever!

2 words: Dom Davis.  3 seasons with WPG.  We wasted a ton of time on him.

Wilson staying on the roster thru '25 says nothing.  In fact, the Dom experience may teach us to cut bait a lot faster on this (potential) type of QB.

Not a fair comparison imo.  Davis was a specialist at QB and decent at it.  Never had the same tools Wilson has, imo.

[theaardvark]

Collaros
Patterson

Are definitely 1-2, minus something crazy in camp...

I genuinely believe Wilson and Strev battle for the SY/3 spot. Other being released.

Elgersma PR for this season

Patterson is here on a minimal salary.  If the mafia had extensive belief in him, he'd have a much bigger salary..

[TecnoGenius]

Not a fair comparison imo.  Davis was a specialist at QB and decent at it.  Never had the same tools Wilson has, imo.

You're not remembering back far enough.  Dom Davis was highly touted and being groomed and planned by the Mafia to be the next big thing.  They wanted him to be legit #1.  And they gave him many (as far as these things go) chances to start/play.

I don't think they decided he was "just a SY guy" until year 3 when they had to admit he was a bust.

I like Wilson too, but the dude needs to hit the smelling salts or something before he comes out for a series.  He's the opposite of lively.  He'll be lucky if he gets another chance to shine: and if he gets it he needs to glow brightly.

[Blue In BC]

TC invites can be quick and dirty.  If a guy comes in, shows extremely well, he can earn a longer look.  But most likely will flame out quick.

Elgersma is a different option, being a NAT.  Not sure how NAT QB influences the AR, but it does count on the field.  Which is why teams are drafting / developing them.

We didn't use that pick just to let him get cut without some serious consideration.  The fact he has been playing 3 down/wide field/12 player/waggle ball all his life makes the learning curve that  much shorter for him.  Its just the speed and complexity of pro ball that he has to ramp up on.

Question:

Can he play teams?  If so, can we roster him as a FB or something?  6'4, 216, maybe SY guy as well?  Can we carry 4 QB on the active roster if one is designated as a FB?

You could carry a 4th QB on the AR if you list him as a FB or receiver etc. It would be a waste of a spot as a DI which he'd have to be. That's not in the cards unless he can be a good back up at receiver for example. We have to find a good combination of QB's in the 3 we choose.

OTOH it might be one way to hide Elgersma on the AR, but you have to leave another Canadian off the roster.  If you're doing that so he can be the SY QB, then what is the value of whoever is # 3 QB? Pretty sure nobody is going to snatch a rookie or Wilson from our PR.

[Sir Blue and Gold]

Patterson is here on a minimal salary.  If the mafia had extensive belief in him, he'd have a much bigger salary..

Correct. Kyle Walters enjoys paying more than he is required to sign players. He loves it. That's actually how his job is graded out at the end of the year. "Kyle, we had a great year but how much over and above the minimum amount required to sign players did you spend?"

[Blueforlife]

You're not remembering back far enough.  Dom Davis was highly touted and being groomed and planned by the Mafia to be the next big thing.  They wanted him to be legit #1.  And they gave him many (as far as these things go) chances to start/play.

I don't think they decided he was "just a SY guy" until year 3 when they had to admit he was a bust.

I like Wilson too, but the dude needs to hit the smelling salts or something before he comes out for a series.  He's the opposite of lively.  He'll be lucky if he gets another chance to shine: and if he gets it he needs to glow brightly.

Good point I was more remembering late edition Davis not early

[Jesse]

You called it!
Understatement on what Wilson did to earn a spot imo, you make it sound like he didn't earn it which is clear he did, guy has the skills, a pro camp for any CFL team for any position is extremely competitive and the guys that earn a PR or roster spot have earned their dues, imo

Agree it's telling that we have so many fresh faces and yes a battle for the ages and agree way more quality than last

I like Wilson but too early to know

I like continuity and like to slowly develop our talent

I also like that we have more options at QB than ever!
Not a fair comparison imo.  Davis was a specialist at QB and decent at it.  Never had the same tools Wilson has, imo.

He's here, he's earned it.

It's also fair to point out that the QB room behind Zach has been in flux since Dru Brown left and he's never had to compete against another QB as a Bomber.

This year he will have to.

That said, I think the odds on favourites should always be that status quo: Zach, Strev, Wilson; Elgersma on the PR.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Yup.  And Wilson had his big huge chance in the GC.  He gets that passing Kenny-corner TD and it's a whole different story.  He could have put more air on it (why would anyone underthrow Kenny??).

The series Wilson had was enough to convince Mafia we had to keep fielding a ruined Zach.

Wilson seems dull and uninterested.  It's good to be even-keel, but not to the point of seeming lifeless.  He should have come in that game and acted like Chad Kelly did, and he should have run a few times after a fake to Brady.

I'm not saying he can't still be "it", but he's running out of chances to show it.

If you can find them re-watch the pre-season games from last season, Wilson won the job in those two games and looked fairly impressive doing so.

[theaardvark]

The whole Wilson at #2 question, in my mind, stems from the GC.

Why, with Zach bleeding out on the sidelines, was Wilson not immediately inserted? If they had faith in him, it did not show in that moment.  Any other player gets injured like that, and his replacement subs in.

So you have to ask yourself, why did they hesitate?  Would they have done the same in a regular season game?  Of would Wilson have come in?  Was this the pressure of being behind in the most important game?

[Blueforlife]

He's here, he's earned it.

It's also fair to point out that the QB room behind Zach has been in flux since Dru Brown left and he's never had to compete against another QB as a Bomber.

This year he will have to.

That said, I think the odds on favourites should always be that status quo: Zach, Strev, Wilson; Elgersma on the PR.

Agree all

If you can find them re-watch the pre-season games from last season, Wilson won the job in those two games and looked fairly impressive doing so.

Agreed well earned

[TecnoGenius]

If you can find them re-watch the pre-season games from last season, Wilson won the job in those two games and looked fairly impressive doing so.

I remember that.  I may still have our 1 televised PS on PVR, I'll check.  However, all he had to do in those games was not suck as bad as the other raw competition.

Still, we're all hoping for the best.

[TecnoGenius]

The whole Wilson at #2 question, in my mind, stems from the GC.

Why, with Zach bleeding out on the sidelines, was Wilson not immediately inserted? If they had faith in him, it did not show in that moment.  Any other player gets injured like that, and his replacement subs in.

So you have to ask yourself, why did they hesitate?  Would they have done the same in a regular season game?  Of would Wilson have come in?  Was this the pressure of being behind in the most important game?

He was immediately inserted!  He had 2 series, IIRC.  One ended in 2 failed TD pass.  The other got an iffy DPI and eventually we ran it in (again, just from memory).

As I recall, Wilson had 1 impressive pass in zone, and maybe 1-2 other minor completions?  The long DPI is what let us score.

But your point still stands if you move the "immediately" to "as soon as Zach threw the first INT".  And you're 100% right.  (Also, replace "Wilson" with Dolegala and it's equally true.)

[Sir Blue and Gold]

The decision had nothing to do with Wilson at all.

It was crunch time in the Grey Cup and if Collaros said he could play he was going to play.

That's true if they love Wilson, hate Wilson or anything in between.

[TecnoGenius]

The decision had nothing to do with Wilson at all.

Yes, and no.  If Wilson's 2 series had looked like Kelly in the '22 GC, then Wilson likely stays in regardless of what Zach thinks (at least after his first INT).

The fact he looked only average meant there was no excitement or faith to roll with Wilson.

[Sir Blue and Gold]

Yes, and no.  If Wilson's 2 series had looked like Kelly in the '22 GC, then Wilson likely stays in regardless of what Zach thinks (at least after his first INT).

The fact he looked only average meant there was no excitement or faith to roll with Wilson.

Yes, totally. Mike O'Shea was absolutely undertaking a quarterback try out in the third quarter of the Grey Cup. Sounds exactly like him.

Terry Wilson could have ran 100 yards and scored doing a double back flip half twist and if Collaros said he was good Collaros would have been back in.

It's not even slightly debatable.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Yes, and no.  If Wilson's 2 series had looked like Kelly in the '22 GC, then Wilson likely stays in regardless of what Zach thinks (at least after his first INT).

The fact he looked only average meant there was no excitement or faith to roll with Wilson.

Regardless, it wasn't enough and they were going to lose that game no matter who played QB.  Which they did.

[TecnoGenius]

Terry Wilson could have ran 100 yards and scored doing a double back flip half twist and if Collaros said he was good Collaros would have been back in.

Yes, MOS plays it safe.  But no, if Wilson had thrown 2 60Y TDs in his 2 series and maybe scrambled out of 2nd & long 2-3 times, then I think even MOS pulls Zach for Wilson after his first bad-finger INT.  Buck does love a hot hand.

Is MOS as smart as Dinwiddie?  Let's assume ya.  Dinwiddie said clearly that he knew for a fact he'd win the game as soon as Zach underthrew that INT on his first attempt.  Ergo MOS knew for a fact Zach was going to not be able to get the job done at that same moment.

So why would MOS leave Zach in after 1, 2 and 3 INTs?  Because he had even less faith in Wilson because Wilson showed nothing in that same game.

The funny thing is: what happened to Zach is a lot like what happened to MBT in '22.  In fact, MBT's injury was probably a smaller one!  Yet Dinwiddie did roll with the "quarterback try out" in that game because Kelly was instantly fire on the field (10X better than MBT!).

[TecnoGenius]

Regardless, it wasn't enough and they were going to lose that game no matter who played QB.  Which they did.

Probably.  Unless the D had been able to win it for us with some 2019-level magic.

[Sir Blue and Gold]

Yes, MOS plays it safe.  But no, if Wilson had thrown 2 60Y TDs in his 2 series and maybe scrambled out of 2nd & long 2-3 times, then I think even MOS pulls Zach for Wilson after his first bad-finger INT.  Buck does love a hot hand.

Is MOS as smart as Dinwiddie?  Let's assume ya.  Dinwiddie said clearly that he knew for a fact he'd win the game as soon as Zach underthrew that INT on his first attempt.  Ergo MOS knew for a fact Zach was going to not be able to get the job done at that same moment.

So why would MOS leave Zach in after 1, 2 and 3 INTs?  Because he had even less faith in Wilson because Wilson showed nothing in that same game.

The funny thing is: what happened to Zach is a lot like what happened to MBT in '22.  In fact, MBT's injury was probably a smaller one!  Yet Dinwiddie did roll with the "quarterback try out" in that game because Kelly was instantly fire on the field (10X better than MBT!).

We put him in a very tough spot," O'Shea said at the podium. "It was a situation he demanded to be put in."

Collaros wanted to play. Collaros went in. Not hard to explain or understand. Terry Wilson or Terry Bradshaw -- it wasn't a factor.

[TecnoGenius]

We put him in a very tough spot," O'Shea said at the podium. "It was a situation he demanded to be put in."

Who's the boss?

[Jesse]

Yes, totally. Mike O'Shea was absolutely undertaking a quarterback try out in the third quarter of the Grey Cup. Sounds exactly like him.

Terry Wilson could have ran 100 yards and scored doing a double back flip half twist and if Collaros said he was good Collaros would have been back in.

It's not even slightly debatable.

Collaros didn't say he was good. Iirc, he was surprised he was sent back in.

[Sir Blue and Gold]

Collaros didn't say he was good. Iirc, he was surprised he was sent back in.

The quote isn't literal it was O'Shea explaining his thought process. That is to say Collaros wasn't angry and screaming at the coaching staff to put him in.

Instead, O'Shea is telling you the situation (that is, the Grey Cup), in his mind, demanded he play Collaros if he physically could.

He wasn't weighing decisions or evaluating Wilson. His number one quarterback was patched up enough to go back in and he was going to go back in. The situation demanded it.

(And I'm not really directing this to you, Jesse, even though I'm quoting you.)

[Sir Blue and Gold]

Who's the boss?

Read the quote again, better.

[markf]

2 words: Dom Davis.  3 seasons with WPG.  We wasted a ton of time on him.

Wilson staying on the roster thru '25 says nothing.  In fact, the Dom experience may teach us to cut bait a lot faster on this (potential) type of QB.

That's a good example of how things have been re backup qb.complete waste of time. I guess counter is Brown.

Re Wilson... I think he's very good at short yardage. That alone should get him a spot shouldn't it?

[TecnoGenius]

Collaros didn't say he was good. Iirc, he was surprised he was sent back in.

Read the quote again, better.

Actually, everyone is misremembering.  MOS addressed this at length in the post-game couple of pressers.  He said he asked Zach if he was ok and Zach said he was ok.  And that was good enough for MOS.  I remember it clearly because it had a tiny whiff of MOS throwing Zach under the bus, which he never does.  Ever.  (The normal MOS reaction here used to be "I decided by myself to keep Zach in, no one convinced me of anything".)

A Zach presser had Zach admit he said to the team he wouldn't be able to throw hard and that they'd have to "come back to the ball" (but no one did, so who knows how true that is).

And all of this is well and good, we can accept Zach coming in for that first series, but as soon as he badly underthrew the mid-range route for an INT MOS should have ignored anything Zach was telling him and then decided based purely what he saw at that moment.

Which leads to my point which was if Wilson had been Tom Brady on his 2 series, then Zach INTs once or twice, then 100% Wilson would have been put in.  But Wilson looked meh, and thus Zach stayed in.  Which arguably was an ok choice.  (The fact being there probably was no good choice at that point.)

The biggest disappointment of all of this is Wilson didn't step up at that moment and be the next Kelly.  He does that and he'd be a starter (somewhere) in '25, or certainly '26.

[TecnoGenius]

That's a good example of how things have been re backup qb.complete waste of time. I guess counter is Brown.

Ya, but Dru's first big chance in a non-PS non-garbage-season game he stepped in for at least a quarter and looked amazing and won the game for us.  I believe that was in year 2?

Dom never looked that good.  I recall he had a couple of chances where he lucked upon really deep TDs.  But he never had that magic that Dru showed us.

It's kind of like Crum vs Alexander.  One was/is so-so, the other instantly stood out as a league starter.

Re Wilson... I think he's very good at short yardage. That alone should get him a spot shouldn't it?

If Strev is still hurt, yes.  I would say Wilson looked good at SY, not Prukop level good though.  But he's had very few attempts, so hard to tell for sure.

The thing is the best SY are always guys who have given up on starting and embraced their SY role.  Wilson is still a starter hopeful.  I'm not sure he wants to be "just a SY" QB.

In any event, we can easily PR Wilson because no one else will take him.

[markf]

Ya, but Dru's first big chance in a non-PS non-garbage-season game he stepped in for at least a quarter and looked amazing and won the game for us.  I believe that was in year 2?

Sorry...I meant to say that Dru, was our success story at bringing along a qb, while Dom is the failure. Sometimes  Hard to express myself clearlynon a message board

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Actually, everyone is misremembering.  MOS addressed this at length in the post-game couple of pressers.  He said he asked Zach if he was ok and Zach said he was ok.  And that was good enough for MOS.  I remember it clearly because it had a tiny whiff of MOS throwing Zach under the bus, which he never does.  Ever.  (The normal MOS reaction here used to be "I decided by myself to keep Zach in, no one convinced me of anything".)

A Zach presser had Zach admit he said to the team he wouldn't be able to throw hard and that they'd have to "come back to the ball" (but no one did, so who knows how true that is).

And all of this is well and good, we can accept Zach coming in for that first series, but as soon as he badly underthrew the mid-range route for an INT MOS should have ignored anything Zach was telling him and then decided based purely what he saw at that moment.

Which leads to my point which was if Wilson had been Tom Brady on his 2 series, then Zach INTs once or twice, then 100% Wilson would have been put in.  But Wilson looked meh, and thus Zach stayed in.  Which arguably was an ok choice.  (The fact being there probably was no good choice at that point.)

The biggest disappointment of all of this is Wilson didn't step up at that moment and be the next Kelly.  He does that and he'd be a starter (somewhere) in '25, or certainly '26.

Can't really compare Wilson to Chad Kelly who competed in Punt, Pass and Kick competitions as a youth and became the national champion four times before becoming a nationally recruited QB coming out of HS. Say what you like about his personality, Kelly was forged by competition at a very young age and isn't likely to falter when the the spotlight shines brightest.  A couple of other decent athletes that grew up in the spotlight, Tiger Woods, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Wayne Gretzky, if they can keep their **** together long enough without coming apart, they usually perform well under pressure.  Johnny Football didn't quite make it.

[dd]

To me, Wilson doesn't have it, rather he has the deer in the headlights I m lost look in his eyes when he's on the field. Alexander on the other hand, from the opening snap, had his head held high and walked with a swagger and attacked the situation vs crumble under it. Night and day. If Strev was healthy, not sure we'd even have Wilson on the roster, given we have Patterson, and as soon as Strev is back, Wilson will be gone.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

To me, Wilson doesn't have it, rather he has the deer in the headlights I m lost look in his eyes when he's on the field. Alexander on the other hand, from the opening snap, had his head held high and walked with a swagger and attacked the situation vs crumble under it. Night and day. If Strev was healthy, not sure we'd even have Wilson on the roster, given we have Patterson, and as soon as Strev is back, Wilson will be gone.

So who is your future QB, Strev?  Patterson couldn't even convince the Riders to keep him, and he had half a season starting to show he had the right stuff.

[Pete]

currently we dont have a qb to take over possibly next year, I dont know if the plan is to go the free agent route or what. I donr know what kind of options there are currently. Maybe after nfl training camp?

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

currently we dont have a qb to take over possibly next year, I dont know if the plan is to go the free agent route or what. I donr know what kind of options there are currently. Maybe after nfl training camp?

In modern times has there ever been a starting QB in the NFL that got cut and continued their career a year or two later in the CFL?  I can't think of any.  I recall Chris Jones tried with Vince Young in 2017 but he flopped out in TC.

[TecnoGenius]

So who is your future QB, Strev?  Patterson couldn't even convince the Riders to keep him, and he had half a season starting to show he had the right stuff.

Our Zach-has-retired future QB?  He's not yet in the barn, or (if unicorns exist) he's one of the rookies.

I think what we've forged is a room that could probably keep us .500 should Zach get hurt.  It has nothing to do with the Zachless future.

I will mention that say what you want about Strev and his throwing mechanics, but he's great fun to watch as a starter.  I loved the games he started in '18.  He should get you .500 and he'll put butts in seats.  That said, we should hope this isn't what transpires!

[LXTSN]

I think we need to cover 3 different roles.
>Back up vet QB that can win us games if ZC is out with an injury.
>Short yardage QB for sneaks.
>QB of the future

I think Patterson is the vet that we need backing up Zach. Of the guys on the roster, he's done the most and had the most success. You could go back to Strevler and we could be about 50-50 but our passing game takes a big hit.

I like Wilson as the short yardage QB. Strevler could do this as well, and he's been good at it, but I'd rather keep Wilson on the roster at this point of their careers.

QB of the future has to be Elgersma. I could also see Wilson sticking around and becoming the starter when Zach retires, but all eyes are on Elgersma to be the next Canadian QB!

My dream lineup:
QB1 - Zach
QB2 - Patterson
QB3 - Wilson
PRQB - Elgersma

My realistic guess is that Strevler is in the QB3 slot instead of Wilson.

[CrazyCanuck89]

I think we need to cover 3 different roles.
>Back up vet QB that can win us games if ZC is out with an injury.
>Short yardage QB for sneaks.
>QB of the future

I think Patterson is the vet that we need backing up Zach. Of the guys on the roster, he's done the most and had the most success. You could go back to Strevler and we could be about 50-50 but our passing game takes a big hit.

I like Wilson as the short yardage QB. Strevler could do this as well, and he's been good at it, but I'd rather keep Wilson on the roster at this point of their careers.

QB of the future has to be Elgersma. I could also see Wilson sticking around and becoming the starter when Zach retires, but all eyes are on Elgersma to be the next Canadian QB!

My dream lineup:
QB1 - Zach
QB2 - Patterson
QB3 - Wilson
PRQB - Elgersma

My realistic guess is that Strevler is in the QB3 slot instead of Wilson.

Elgersma is going to make the roster.  Bombers aren't going to take the chance of someone else poaches him.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Elgersma is going to make the roster.  Bombers aren't going to take the chance of someone else poaches him.

Don't know if that is necessary, poaching isn't that common anymore and all they'd have to do to avoid losing him is offer him a roster spot and throw him on the 1 game IR for a game or two, the choice to go or not would be his.  Besides, every other team is up to their necks in QB projects early in the season, not too many would be gazing over the fence admiring their neighbour's cow when their barn is still full.

[Blue In BC]

Don't know if that is necessary, poaching isn't that common anymore and all they'd have to do to avoid losing him is offer him a roster spot and throw him on the 1 game IR for a game or two, the choice to go or not would be his.  Besides, every other team is up to their necks in QB projects early in the season, not too many would be gazing over the fence admiring their neighbour's cow when their barn is still full.

Yeah it's an interesting problem and I'm not exactly sure how they handle it. I'm also not sure when he shows up if in fact he shows up at all in 2025.

[Jesse]

Elgersma is going to make the roster.  Bombers aren't going to take the chance of someone else poaches him.

It would be shocking to me if he was on the AR.

[Blue In BC]

Elks released OG Jack- Kurdyla who was projected as a starter. Should we consider bringing him to TC? Or is this a paper move for a late arrival to their TC.

Elks also signed ex Bomber RB Rosery and added receiver Tachinski we had discussed.

It's still a revolving door in Edmonton.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Elks released OG Jack- Kurdyla who was projected as a starter. Should we consider bringing him to TC? Or is this a paper move for a late arrival to their TC.

Elks also signed ex Bomber RB Rosery and added receiver Tachinski we had discussed.

It's still a revolving door in Edmonton.

Good news for Rosary and Tachinski, hopefully they stick.

[dd]

It would be shocking to me if he was on the AR.

First year Canadian Qb, it would be an absolute shocker. I saw him play in the Vanier last year, he was a disappointment and got outplayed by the Laval Qb.

[TecnoGenius]

Elks released OG Jack- Kurdyla who was projected as a starter. Should we consider bringing him to TC? Or is this a paper move for a late arrival to their TC.

1st round 4th pick, but 2020.  That's a long long time to not stand out as great player.

They probably realize he reached his peak, and the peak wasn't very high.  Not sure what else we can do.  However, if he's on Mafia's special watch list, you never know!

If he was worth anything they would have tried to trade with someone for a 3RDP or something.

[TecnoGenius]

First year Canadian Qb, it would be an absolute shocker. I saw him play in the Vanier last year, he was a disappointment and got outplayed by the Laval Qb.

Ya, and Zach got badly outplayed by Arbuckle in the GC.  One game, or even one season (one team) doesn't mean much.

[Blue In BC]

1st round 4th pick, but 2020.  That's a long long time to not stand out as great player.

They probably realize he reached his peak, and the peak wasn't very high.  Not sure what else we can do.  However, if he's on Mafia's special watch list, you never know!

If he was worth anything they would have tried to trade with someone for a 3RDP or something.

The question revolves around is he better than Wallace, Eli or Randolph.  He only played 3 games in 2024 so there maybe an injury issue. You can never totally disregard a veteran Canadian OL if he's healthy and affordable.

He was given a 2 year extension going into 2024 with a $25K signing bonus and a salary of $146K. That must say something.

We're down a Canadian OL and at worst he'd be a depth OL if he's affordable. It depends on what they think the chances are of either of the 2 rookie Canadian OL making the AR.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

First year Canadian Qb, it would be an absolute shocker. I saw him play in the Vanier last year, he was a disappointment and got outplayed by the Laval Qb.

There has been speculation Tachinski is willing to switch to receiver, which should make Aards happy.

https://www.cfl.ca/2025/03/27/jackson-tachinski-built-for-transition-from-qb-to-receiver/

[CrazyCanuck89]

It would be shocking to me if he was on the AR.

Then you should bone up on your football.

[Pete]

1st round 4th pick, but 2020.  That's a long long time to not stand out as great player.

They probably realize he reached his peak, and the peak wasn't very high.  Not sure what else we can do.  However, if he's on Mafia's special watch list, you never know!

If he was worth anything they would have tried to trade with someone for a 3RDP or something.

not sure why but they had resigned him in January of 2024 to a two year deal, for 145K each yr. including a 25k bonus so they did see something in him. For 2024 he played first three games then was injured (knee) for the remainder of the season.
 It would fill a need for us especially if they think wallace is ready to at least rotate in as a starter to free up a import slot that right now looks to be Randolph.

[TecnoGenius]

The question revolves around is he better than Wallace, Eli or Randolph.

Not really?  Eli is safe because he can do C and he's good on jumbo.  He doesn't have to be starter-able, and it doesn't matter if the Elk is better... unless he is also better at C.  And then if that was the case, he'd still have to be around the same price (sounds like he isn't) and he'd have to be willing to be relegated to 7th (which many previous starters aren't)!

And Wallace is safe because Wallace is here for HOPE.  We hope he'll be akin to Dobson level in 0 to 2 more years.  As soon as he exhausts that hope, if it's in the negative he'll be outta here like Spooner (and others).

The Elk provides no HOPE for self-improvement because he's 5 years into dev.  He now is what he is.  So as such he'd have to beat out our existing "known quantity" guys (Eli) for the 7th never-be-a-starter spot.

We're not so desperate that we'd need to start a substandard LG just because he's available.  Plus, that's not the Mafia way (we don't FA our NATs... we would have just paid Dobson more instead).  The only way in heck that is even remotely considered is if we are ratio-poor (we're not) or we suddenly get convinced Wallace is a never-starter.

[TecnoGenius]

not sure why but they had resigned him in January of 2024 to a two year deal, for 145K each yr. including a 25k bonus so they did see something in him. For 2024 he played first three games then was injured (knee) for the remainder of the season.

He only played 3 games in 2024 so there maybe an injury issue. You can never totally disregard a veteran Canadian OL if he's healthy and affordable.

You guys are probably onto something with the injury angle.  Could be he was looking bad on a physical or coming up on camp.

Did he get a roster bonus this year?  If not, the Jan 2024 money doesn't mean much now.  We probably sign our off-ELC NAT OL to a similar salary/bonus.  Wallace will probably get that in FA26 if we're still hopeful on him.

Other than injury, everything above points to a normal dev guy they were hopeful on that didn't pan out for whatever reason.  The only odd thing I can see is they spent 5 years figuring out he was a bust?

If anyone can list some vs WPG games he was in and on-field in the last 5 years I can hit the PVR to see how he played for ya.

[Blue In BC]

Not really?  Eli is safe because he can do C and he's good on jumbo.  He doesn't have to be starter-able, and it doesn't matter if the Elk is better... unless he is also better at C.  And then if that was the case, he'd still have to be around the same price (sounds like he isn't) and he'd have to be willing to be relegated to 7th (which many previous starters aren't)!

And Wallace is safe because Wallace is here for HOPE.  We hope he'll be akin to Dobson level in 0 to 2 more years.  As soon as he exhausts that hope, if it's in the negative he'll be outta here like Spooner (and others).

The Elk provides no HOPE for self-improvement because he's 5 years into dev.  He now is what he is.  So as such he'd have to beat out our existing "known quantity" guys (Eli) for the 7th never-be-a-starter spot.

We're not so desperate that we'd need to start a substandard LG just because he's available.  Plus, that's not the Mafia way (we don't FA our NATs... we would have just paid Dobson more instead).  The only way in heck that is even remotely considered is if we are ratio-poor (we're not) or we suddenly get convinced Wallace is a never-starter.

That's not quite the question. Is he a better choice at LG than either of those choices. I'm not suggesting he replace either on the AR, but we lost a starting Canadian OL in free agency. If he do choose to employ 3 Canadian OL starters, then something has to change. We need to add another one. We did sign two rookie Canadian OL but whether either sticks is unknown at the moment.

So at the moment, he is the most experienced Canadian OL that is a free agent. It's worth considering but he may not be a fit for a multiple of reasons.

I don't want to just to surrender to needing a 3 import OL as our only choice with our ratio.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

That's not quite the question. Is he a better choice at LG than either of those choices. I'm not suggesting he replace either on the AR, but we lost a starting Canadian OL in free agency. If he do choose to employ 3 Canadian OL starters, then something has to change. We need to add another one. We did sign two rookie Canadian OL but whether either sticks is unknown at the moment.

So at the moment, he is the most experienced Canadian OL that is a free agent. It's worth considering but he may not be a fit for a multiple of reasons.

I don't want to just to surrender to needing a 3 import OL as our only choice with our ratio.

Meh, there will be much better players available league wide after cut down day, no reason to worry about O-line depth.

[Blue In BC]

Meh, there will be much better players available league wide after cut down day, no reason to worry about O-line depth.

Easy to say but that's never proven to be true at cut down day, especially for OL. There is also the cohesiveness on the OL gained in TC. Today is better than tomorrow so to speak.

I'm not sure if the Bombers have any interest in him or will have any interest in another player at cut down.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Easy to say but that's never proven to be true at cut down day, especially for OL. There is also the cohesiveness on the OL gained in TC. Today is better than tomorrow so to speak.

I'm not sure if the Bombers have any interest in him or will have any interest in another player at cut down.

Probably not, for the most part the Bombers tend to run with the players they brought into TC, they also reward players like Eli that have stuck around for multiple years by not replacing with a player that might be marginally better.  As you said continuity is huge.

[Pete]

reminds me of the discussions we had two years ago when a number of us were advocating signing Lemon, instead Mtrl did and he was a difference maker in their run to the cup.
Bombers very rarely look at high profile cuts from other teams much to a lot of fans dismay

[Pigskin]

With ZC8 out for our home opener against BC. This should ramp things up a little in TC for the backup QB position. Someone has to be ready to start for our home opener on June 12th against BC. Might be a good thing we have a bye the first week of the season.

[TecnoGenius]

So at the moment, he is the most experienced Canadian OL that is a free agent. It's worth considering but he may not be a fit for a multiple of reasons.

Rice is still available, AFAIK.  He has way more experience, seniority, and GP.  And he can also play tackle!  I'd rather have Rice (a GC winner with MTL and TOR).

You don't want to upset the system just because this Elk might be modestly better.   He'd have to be star-studded level good to make such a large deviation from Mafia norms.

[TecnoGenius]

Easy to say but that's never proven to be true at cut down day, especially for OL. There is also the cohesiveness on the OL gained in TC. Today is better than tomorrow so to speak.

If you want cohesiveness out of the gate, you start Randolph (or Wallace) because they've been here a full season (or more), and actually started a few games with our core OL group.

The only reason you'd go into FA is to if we literally had no viable option at that spot, like we did Lofton when Yoshi left.  We have 2 viable options at LG right now, one who is guaranteed very good.

[TecnoGenius]

reminds me of the discussions we had two years ago when a number of us were advocating signing Lemon, instead Mtrl did and he was a difference maker in their run to the cup.
Bombers very rarely look at high profile cuts from other teams much to a lot of fans dismay

Yes, and no.  We can't compare nobodysville Elk OL to perennial all-star Lemon.

But yes, Mafia only ever seems to sign 0 to 1 all-star level guys in FA.  I guess you could say Vaughters is this year's guy.  Ellingson in years past.

For the most part (even with the above) we look for the "value pick".  We wants guys we think will play above their pay scale.  And we are often successful.  This year that's a guy like J.Jones.

Is it right or wrong?  Hard to say.  5 GC appearances would hint that it works for them.  Ain't broke...?

[TecnoGenius]

Might be a good thing we have a bye the first week of the season.

Yes, that garbage bye timing might actually be a blessing.  ID the best guy in TC/PS and have an extra week to prep.

[Blue In BC]

If you want cohesiveness out of the gate, you start Randolph (or Wallace) because they've been here a full season (or more), and actually started a few games with our core OL group.

The only reason you'd go into FA is to if we literally had no viable option at that spot, like we did Lofton when Yoshi left.  We have 2 viable options at LG right now, one who is guaranteed very good.

That wasn't quite what I mentioned but also valid. I was speaking of any player getting the full benefit of a TC rather than airlifted in in 2 weeks later. We also have a new OC, so that's a factor too.

I don't agree that you only go into free agency if you have viable options. You do that if the FA is better and / or if you choose to start 3 Canadians and need to improve Canadian depth.

So there are many factors besides conceptually having viable options.

[Blue In BC]

Rice is still available, AFAIK.  He has way more experience, seniority, and GP.  And he can also play tackle!  I'd rather have Rice (a GC winner with MTL and TOR).

You don't want to upset the system just because this Elk might be modestly better.   He'd have to be star-studded level good to make such a large deviation from Mafia norms.

He was released in February and no one has made him an offer he accepted if one was made. So a player just released would seem to have a bit more interest to me, but that's a bit bias I suppose.

[TecnoGenius]

He was released in February and no one has made him an offer he accepted if one was made. So a player just released would seem to have a bit more interest to me, but that's a bit bias I suppose.

Ya, because he's getting old.  Like Big Stan and Neuf old.  But those 2 are still going strong.

I'd take Rice over noname because:

a) He's a MB kid
b) He's a former Bison
c) He'd probably love to finish up in WPG
d) He can play both G and T

and most importantly

e) He's the new GC horseshoe good luck charm.  MTL had him: won.  TOR had him: won.  (And we could debrief him on all of TOR/MTL's O secrets...)

[TecnoGenius]

I don't agree that you only go into free agency if you have (no) viable options. You do that if the FA is better and / or if you choose to start 3 Canadians and need to improve Canadian depth.

I'm not disagreeing with you in general.  I'm saying WFC doesn't do this.  Especially not at OL!

KW really does concentrate on hidden gems (value picks) and downside ageing vets (Ellingson) in FA.  We seem to only spend big on retaining the stars, and getting back prodigal sons (Kenny).

When's the last time we spent big for league-leading players who weren't ex-Bombers?  The days of going out in FA and spending big on Big Stan and Yoshi are long gone.

We may all pine for a Lemon/Sankey type deal, but I think we've mostly learned to just forget it.  We'll only ever be disappointed.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

I'm not disagreeing with you in general.  I'm saying WFC doesn't do this.  Especially not at OL!

KW really does concentrate on hidden gems (value picks) and downside ageing vets (Ellingson) in FA.  We seem to only spend big on retaining the stars, and getting back prodigal sons (Kenny).

When's the last time we spent big for league-leading players who weren't ex-Bombers?  The days of going out in FA and spending big on Big Stan and Yoshi are long gone.

We may all pine for a Lemon/Sankey type deal, but I think we've mostly learned to just forget it.  We'll only ever be disappointed.

Yoshi wasn't a big ticket FA signing, the Bombers signed him after he was cut by the Riders in early 2016. He probably only started making good money when he returned to the Riders last season, wish him all the best but it was time to move on. 

Key to the Bombers O-line success has been the establishment of their pipeline that has sustained them the last decade, plus the O-line coaching they receive from Marty Costello. 

[Blueforlife]

https://3downnation.com/2025/05/10/seven-position-battles-to-watch-in-winnipeg-blue-bombers-training-camp-in-2025/

[markf]

3down article:


" Patterson has been a member of seven professional teams across four different leagues. "

This Does not seem like a reason he should be the backup qb.