M.Silverback

You're totally right. But, we're also seeing that NFL teams are re-considering paying huge $ to a pass rusher when it comes time to a second contract. It's why the Raiders traded Khalil Mack, who is fantastic, but couldn't get the Bears into the playoffs alone because their QB sucks. I heard on Minnesota sports radio suggesting trading Danielle Hunter to move up in the draft to get Tua Tagovailoa - a potential franchise QB on a rookie contract, partly because Hunter will want to be the highest paid DE in the NFL next contract (his third).

I think so too. He's worth that much in terms of talent level. But, not in terms of tying up that much cap space for that position, considering the impact and cost of a near replacement level player.

I love Willie Jefferson. But, I also trust that Kyle Walters will not overpay for a position where there are other options. Lesser options, but, options that can provide 75% of the production, at 50% of the salary. Ja'Gared Davis potentially, as some have mentioned. Actually had more sacks last year. Not as much of an impact player, but, still effective.

Me too! This is testing my In Kyle We Trust mantra. Particularly if it means we're losing Petermann.

I think a lot depends on how long Streveler stays in the NFL. If he's released early, pretty much guaranteed he'll be back with the Bombers. If he hangs around a season on an NFL practice roster, not so sure he'd come back. A lot changes in pro sports in a season. McGuire may have cemented the job as number 2 QB, or number 1 in waiting. The Bombers will be looking for a number 3 QB and may have found one they're happy with by then. Plus the new CFL season will bring a new Nick Arbuckle or Cody Fajardo that many CFL teams will be after. Not saying Streveler wouldn't be sought after, but, if he's gone the entire CFL season or close to it, no team is holding a place for him.

We would have been better off with actual actors. I would have taken Willie Beamen and Cap Rooney from the Miami Sharks over that group.

Yeah I was surprised he didn't. Good prospect out of LSU. But, has bounced around a lot, including two CFL teams. There's definitely a reason. Taylor Heinicke could play QB in the CFL. At least a back up level. But, might also be a bit of a knucklehead. And, perhaps the lure of playing for the storied St. Louis Battlehawks is just too great. We'll see you when the league folds buddy.

Agreed. If Streveler is back with the team, don't be shocked if there's a true competition between him and McGuire for the back up QB job. I bet Buck Pierce is going to really take a long look at who has the most potential to be an impact starting QB in the CFL, and it might be McGuire more than Streveler.

I hear ya. Concussion history is scary. But, based on last season, every starting QB missed some time. Nichols injury history is extensive too, just to multiple body parts. So, I wouldn't be surprised if Collaros does too, just praying it's not due to a significant concussion.

Not sure if he's done, but, I think the Bombers and their medical staff are likely a bit less optimistic about his post surgery throwing shoulder than Nichols and his agent are. I like Nichols. And he played well for the Bombers. Thanks for that. But, Collaros is a better QB right now. He proved it in the Grey Cup run. And peak Collaros was always better than peak Nichols.

Some good points about how the Titans schemed against Lamar. And, the Ravens definitely need to add some additional weapons on offense. But, I think Lamar is just going to keep getting better. And he's really, really good now. Not saying that this is your perspective, but I hope we (collective we, as in this board) are not comparing Heisman trophy winner and sure fire NFL MVP Lamar Jackson to Chris Streveler. My man-crush on Strev is high, but he is no where near Lamar's level of talent. I'm not even sure he's Tim Tebow's level of talent honestly. Strev might become a decent CFL starter. He's not even close to that now. Tremendous athlete - check. Huge heart - check. Pro QB - to be determined. NFL roster player - I wouldn't bet on it, though for his sake, I wish him the best.

Agree. That's why I don't think you're going to see a run on NFL teams trying to replicate this. Do you think you could convince a coach like Mike Zimmer to use up a roster spot for a gimmick player who is going to throw one pass, catch one pass, maybe make one run per game, over a rotational DE or DB? Who also can step in for injuries? No chance.

I wish Streveler the best with his NFL tryouts, like all former CFL players. But, the Taysom Hill model is one of a kind for a reason. There have to be a lot of factors involved to make it work. Supporting cast - as you indicated. The Saints have a legitimate back up QB who was an NFL starter - Teddy Brigdewater - and a hall of famer at QB. So, they're more likely to use a roster spot for a Swiss army knife QB hybrid than most teams. Most NFL teams dress two QB's and load up on other rotational players for game day - DE, WR, DB. Plus, the Saints have Sean Payton - great offensive coach and a real innovator. Not sure many OC's could use that type of player as well as he has. I just think that we're not going to see a huge uptick in NFL teams looking to replicate what the Saints have. That said, I could see Streveler sitting on a practice roster for a season down there.

Definitely. I know a lot of people dump on Ambrosie's global CFL 2.0 plan. But, I give the CFL credit for trying an approach that at least may find some talent elsewhere, is innovative, and might increase fan interest in other countries.

Thanks for posting this! I know the global players thing is probably annoying for CFL GM's and coaches. But, it's fascinating from the perspective of trying to find some really raw talent. The Bombers found a real gem in Hansen. Could become a rotational pass rusher.

I'm not sure I understand Jeff Hamilton's take on this. Is he saying that the CFL should not allow any players who have had legal problems to play? Because that's one of the reasons why some talented players end up here - i.e. Willie Jefferson and many, many others. We've always been kind of a second chance league. Or, is his take that we should only allow players that have had certain types of legal problems? I think the CFL already does that, at least to an extent. Past DUI's and marijuana charges - seem to not entirely exclude players from trying out, depending on the circumstances. Serious legal issues - assault, murder, etc - I think the CFL bans those players entirely. Example - Ray Rice. I seem to remember the CFL making a statement saying he would never be allowed to play here, which makes total sense. I also trust that the Bombers are pretty good on doing their due diligence. Walters and O'Shea seem pretty good at choosing character players. You'd have to think that perhaps this player has learned from his transgressions, and perhaps even is dealing with any substance abuse issues. Seems like Hamilton forgets that people are capable of doing that. I guess I'm a bit confused by Hamilton's takes on things. And still salty that he was one of the anti Harris for MOP ring leaders.

I agree that priority number one in Toronto and Vancouver is improve attendance. Not sure how, but, that would be my mandate to everyone involved in both clubs. Housing costs are definitely higher there. But, as many have indicated, there are advantages to attract and retain players that both cities have over Winnipeg, Regina ... Getting a slightly bigger piece of the housing allowance pie doesn't move the needle much in terms of the financial bottom line for either club. It's rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic. "Sell some f'ing tickets! Get more paying fans! Be closers!!!"

I suggest the nutless monkey replace one of the local media voting on next year's Bombers outstanding player nominees.

Agree. And unfortunately, a decision has to be made on him soon. January or February. And if you do sign him, for how much? Do you base it on actual recovery or anticipated recovery? Tough decision.

10 players from each CFL team's negotiation list. Bombers have QB Taylor Heinicke on it. There was a time when the Vikings were quite high on him as a back up QB, until he cut his foot kicking a glass door. A bit undersized for the NFL, could be a good CFL prospect. Plus, he's not on an NFL roster at present. Allocated to the St. Louis Battlehawks of the XFL. We might see him in camp, to add more fuel to our QB debating. https://www.cfl.ca/2019/12/17/cfl-reveals-list-10-negotiation-list-players-team-4/

Agree. I'd say the same thing for Nichols contract. At his age, modest resume, and coming off throwing shoulder surgery. Whoever signs him should (key word) give him a modest contract with incentives. Signing him for $500K base salary or more per year is a fireable offence.

I hope so. Not 100% convinced he's a CFL starter level in terms of his passing ability. I'd be willing to sign him (cheaply) and find out. But, I also won't be surprised if McGuire ends up being the better overall CFL QB. His passing mechanics look so much better. I'm not sure Streveler's strengths (running, toughness) outnumber his weaknesses (arm strength, accuracy, pocket presence, vision). Let's hope. If he puts it all together we have Tracy Ham at QB for us.

Ha! So true with Streveler. If you asked a random NFL football fan who didn't know the Bombers if 1400 yards and 9:14 TD-INT ratio is good or bad for a QB, they'd reply it's terrible! Yet, we (me included) love Streveler, and want to re-sign him. A bit illogical. Potential I guess? I will say my caveat is I would sign him relatively "cheap". If he or his agent start getting stars in their eyes, I would point to his stats, and be prepared to let another team overpay him.

That to me is key - setting a QB budget in that range for all QB's. I'd be really wary of paying the $750 K plus for a starting elite QB. Reilly and BLM are by far the best QB's, but, really impacts your roster elsewhere, and in reality didn't win a Grey Cup for either BC or Calgary. There's absolutely no other QB's in the CFL I would pay that kind of money for. I'd shoot for Streveler, McGuire and veteran CFL TBD for $750K or less.