gbill2004

Pavs should have saved the game winning goal. He was out of position, as usual.

Eventually, with teams retiring numbers to honour great players, there will be no numbers left, so we might start to see fractional numbers on player jerseys.

My prediction for the Bombers draft: 1. Chungh 2. Richards/Hardy 3. Ackie/Tennent Names could change slightly, but I feel the strategy will be: 1. Best OL 2. Best WR available 3. Best defensive player available; preferably a DL.

I like the part in his scouting report that he's a good downfield blocker and that he always beats DB's in the red zone on jump balls.

Morehouse WR Derrick Hector is a tall athletic receiver at 6-4 215 lbs that has good size and uses his frame well to shield away opponents. He gets vertical on defenders and fights to make the reception. He also displays good eye/hand coordination and shows strong hands when making tough catches over the middle. Hector looks smooth coming out of his breaks but tends to get a little high sometimes when setting up his routes. He clutches the ball into his body on some intermediate routes and needs to work on consistently catching the ball more with his hands. He also needs to work on coming back to the quarterback on certain pass plays. Hector was one of the biggest receivers during the HBCU Bowl week and impressed NFL scouts in practices with how fluid he looked releasing off the line with quick top speed and also his burst when selling the deep route. Hector uses his size and strength to his advantage and gives good effort blocking downfield. He also showed his ability as a red zone threat consistently winning the jump ball battle against just about every defensive back he faced. Hector put up productive numbers considering the offense he played in and was also a two time all conference performer. A good pro day will increase his chances on receiving an opportunity in training camp. Hector has the size, speed and receiver skills to play at the next level and could be a good candidate as a fifth receiver. He will have to pull together a complete game in training camp and quickly adjust to better competition to give himself the best opportunity to make an active NFL roster or practice squad. Derrick Hector youtube film

According to Dunk, we didn't interview with any of the LBs at the combine, so it doesn't seem to be a position we're targeting.

@JDunk12: Canadian QB Brandon Bridge (@Air_Canada_7) has already gone through a private workout with the #Indianapolis #Colts. #NFL

For some odd reason that first paragraph reminded me of a Penthouse Forum letter....obviously I was disappointed with the climax of the story.Agreed. I was hoping for some drunken binge stories involving alcohol, waking up in a hotel bathtub in a pool of vomit, and lots of strippers. Darren's story sure went downhill from there. I was picturing a Hangover 4 type weekend for Walters, O'Shea, Morris and Govea.

I like Chungh at 2 then one of Nic Demski, Addison Richards, Lemar Durant, or Jake Harty at 11.

Interesting read: By: Darren Cameron I walked into General Manager Kyle Walters’ office this morning, eager to hear about the future of our league. He was fresh off a week of carefully studying prospects at the CFL Combine, and we quickly got talking. Within a minute of starting our conversation, in walked Mike O’Shea, and together they took me through the weekend. To sum up their thoughts in a few words, it would be safe to say the confidence about improving the roster on May 12th (CFL Draft day) is exceptionally high. I tried my best to keep up with the names and attributes they were rattling off, and every time a player’s name would come up in an excited tone, the next would follow with even more animation. I wish I could tell you who we will take with the second overall selection. Heck, even which position. The truth is, I wouldn’t be able to even if it was already decided, but let me run down few scenarios that Kyle and Mike tossed around on this Monday morning after the hectic Combine weekend. Offensive Lineman This has been our mantra since Kyle took over: Almost always take a lineman with your top pick, and another later on in the draft. We did this last year with Matthias Goossen, who we feel is going to be a solid player in our league. This year may buck that trend, though. As Kyle pointed out, “the draft is so deep, we could most likely grab a solid offensive lineman at 11, because there are five or six very good ones”. The idea of taking a lineman at number two overall isn’t out of the question, but with the offseason acquisitions of Stanley Bryant and Dominic Picard to drastically improve our offensive line already and the abundant talent at other valuable positions, it will make for an interesting debate here at Investors Group Field as May approaches. Wide Receiver This position is really what has changed things from our perspective heading into the draft. Kyle told me empathically that “Nic Demski (Manitoba), Addison Richards (Regina), Lemar Durant (Simon Fraser), and Jake Harty (Calgary) are all great football players.” This became even more evident when I looked up at Kyle’s whiteboard in his office and saw all four names circled under the receiver category. By the sounds of it, it is entirely possible that any of these four players could come in, start, and make an impact quickly. Solid Canadian pass-catchers are valuable assets, and with the thinking that a top offensive lineman will likely still be available at 11, do you add a dynamic playmaker to your roster and bolster an offence that has lacked consistent production from Canadian receivers for years? “Demski is the best pure athlete, but he’s not alone. Durant, Richards, and Harty are very, very interesting,” noted Kyle. Defensive Player Adding a defensive, ratio-changing player is of much intrigue to our staff, and has not been discussed very much to this point. Chris Ackie, a defensive back from Wilfrid Laurier, was one of the first players to be raved about this morning. First in the Broad Jump and Vertical Leap, and third in the 3-Cone Drill, Ackie is one of the defensive players who is making this decision even more difficult. There are others too, but the thinking here would be to take a ratio-changing defensive player at two, and again look to the depth of lineman and receivers for the next two picks (11 and 15). One of the decisions I do believe has been made is that the number two selection will not be moved. “Obviously you never say never, but it is unlikely we will move that pick,” Kyle said. “There are just too many good football players at so many different positions to trade that away. With three in the first 15, we’re very confident we can add some depth and immediate impact-type players with the positions we are in, pick-wise.” It’s starting to feel more and more like football season, isn’t it? In just a few short weeks we will be in Bradenton, Florida to evaluate the off-season free agent signings. May 12th is CFL Draft Day, and our rookie camp will open just over two weeks after that. As I was leaving Kyle’s office, I mentioned to Kyle and Mike the fast approaching season, and all eyes lit up. “Let’s go!” smiled the coach. Until next time. Darren

Why didn't you ask him when you saw him at Walmart?

@garylawless: Kyle Walters says Christian Covington is flat out the best player available in #CFL draft but expects he's going to be an NFL player @garylawless: Walters says NIc Demski is best receiver available in #cfl draft

I'd go Chungh or Groulx at 2 overall. Like what I'm hearing on Chungh so leaning towards him.

OL.

@DuaneFordeTSN: REC 40s #CFLCombine Lemar Durant 4.550, Nic Demski 4.556...

Looks like Walters was right in getting as many picks as possible in this draft. Seems like 15-20 guys with first round talent in this draft with 4-5 OLs that could easily go first overall. Love how we have 3 picks in the top 15.

Mike, nice call on Shaq Murray-Lawrence. Unfortunately it sounds like he pulled his groin in the 40's. Hope it's nothing too serious.

@JDunk12: #CFLCombine instant reaction: OL Danny Groulx, Sukh Chungh and Sean McEwen had strong 1-on-1 showings. #CFL @JDunk12: #CFLCombine instant reaction: #Western DL Daryl Waud used his hands well in 1-on-1s - impressive performance. #CFL @JDunk12: #Montreal @Carabins LB Byron Archambault's 41 reps on the bench is a #CFLCombine record for a LB (Joash Gesse 33 reps in 2010). #CFL @CFL: BREAKING: Shaquille Murray-Lawrence of UNLV has broken the #CFLCombine All-Time 40-Yard Dash Record with a time of 4.412 #CFL

I don't really see any scenario where Bufuglien is with the Jets long term. Trouba, Buff and Myers are all RHD. Trouba ain't going anywhere. Myers is proving he's a #1 D-man who is signed to an amazing contract until 2019 (at around $4.5 mill per season). There simply aren't enough minutes to go around at RHD for Trouba, Byfuglien and Myers. Short-term Maurice said one might shift over to the left, but that's not a long term solution. In addition, Byfuglien will be 31 when his contract is up. There's no way I'd want to commit more than 3 years to a guy with his conditioning history. And Buff is going to command an annual salary of $8 million or more on the market. He'll want 5-7 years is my guess. A contract like that can cripple a team. Just imagine paying Byfuglien $8 mill per season at age 37 or 38. No thanks. I'd much rather use the money on younger guys who will need raises soon like Scheifele and Trouba. Ladd is up for a new contract soon and we want to re-sign at least one of Frolik or Stafford (ideally both). I get it...Byfuglien is a fan favourite, but logic days he won't be here after next season and a good chance he's traded this summer. I hope Chevy is smart enough to see it this way. Jets have recently proven they'd be just fine without Byfuglien. We've gotten the best of him. At age 31, he'll be a diminishing asset.

@ArashMadani: Per #CFL sources: #Argos are putting on a recruiting push to sign Jamaal Westerman, a veteran NFL LB who under new rules would be a Canadian @ArashMadani: While #CFL sources tell me the BC Lions also has interest in Jamaal Westerman, the veteran LB is in Toronto and they hope to get a deal done

And another from Forde: After the 2013 CFL Draft, the league changed its eligibility rules so that an NCAA player’s draft year would correspond with the completion of his college eligibility. In theory, the benefits should be twofold. First of all, and most importantly, much of the guesswork has been eliminated in terms of projecting the likelihood of losing a given prospect to the NFL. The secondary advantage that was supposed to be gained is that top prospects from NCAA programs would now be able to attend the CFL Combine without jeopardizing any remaining college eligibility. Well, for a number of top players in the Class of 2015, the terms “willing” and “able” don’t necessarily go together, as the following invitees (listed alphabetically) were either unwilling or unable to be in Toronto this weekend. Brandon Bridge (QB, South Alabama, 6’5”, 235 lbs.): While his game isn’t as refined as Jesse Palmer’s was coming out of college, ‘Air Canada’ is the most physically gifted quarterback prospect ever produced in this country. Blessed with size, mobility, and a very strong arm, the native of Mississauga, Ontario has spent the past two summers honing his craft alongside the NCAA’s top QBs at the renowned Manning Passing Academy. Since completing his senior season, he has participated in the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl and the NFL Combine. Described by some as a “poor man’s Colin Kaepernick,” he is expected to be in an NFL camp this summer. Bridge’s Pro Day will take place on Monday. Brett Boyko (OT, Nevada-Las Vegas, 6’7”, 310 lbs.): As a four-year starter, primarily at left tackle, and two-time All-Mountain West selection, this Saskatoon product has as impressive a résumé as any prospect in this class. He attended last month’s NFL Combine and was also invited to the East-West Shrine Game but didn’t participate due to injury. His NFL stock may have fallen slightly over the last year but he should still be drafted. Christian Covington (DT, Rice, 6’3”, 300 lbs.): The son of Canadian Football Hall of Famer Grover Covington and undisputed best player in the Class of 2015 became eligible for the CFL Draft when he declared for early entry to the NFL Draft. The Vancouver native was projected by many as a potential first round NFL pick prior to suffering a season ending knee injury. Still rehabbing, but expected to make a complete recovery, he will definitely be selected in the NFL Draft. Alex Mateas (OC, Connecticut, 6’4”, 309 lbs.): Originally a Penn State recruit, he became a three-year starter at centre for the Huskies and was also named a team captain as a senior. He was selected to play in the College Gridiron Showcase in January and is considered the early favourite to be chosen first overall by his hometown Ottawa Redblacks in the May 12 draft. Still holding on to some NFL hopes, he will work out at UConn’s Pro Day on Tuesday. Matthew Norzil (REC, 6’2”, 190, Laval): In terms of skill and talent, he’s one of the elite players in this class, however injuries have clouded his status. After missing most of the last two seasons due to a knee injury, he tested off the charts at Wednesday’s Montreal regional combine. Unfortunately, however, he later injured a hamstring during one-on-ones, preventing him from participating in the CFL Combine this weekend. Tyler Varga (RB, Yale, 5’11”, 224 lbs.): The 2011 CIS Rookie of the Year enjoyed similar dominance in three Ivy League seasons, averaging 124.4 rushing yards per game in that time. Strong showings at the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine (despite not running due to injury) have boosted his stock south of the border to a point where he is expected to crack an NFL roster.

Another good read from Forde: Offensive linemen are to our draft what quarterbacks are to the NFL Draft." Former B.C. Lions coach Mike Benevides, who joins TSN's combine coverage this weekend, gave me that analogy several years ago and it has held true. Historically, one of the best indicators of the relative strength of a CFL draft class has always been the depth and quality of available offensive linemen. For example, the best class in recent memory was 2008, where the first round of the draft produced three rookie O-Line starters and seven of the first twelve picks were offensive linemen. This year, two top O-Line prospects, Alex Mateas (Connecticut) and Brett Boyko (Nevada-Las Vegas), will bypass the CFL Combine but here's a brief look at a few of the other prospects (listed alphabetically) who are causing scouts to call the Class of 2015 the best since 2008. Sukh Chung (OG, Calgary, 6'3", 290 lbs.): Originally a member of the Class of 2014, he was among those CIS players reclassified to 2015 when the CFL adjusted its draft eligibility rules last year. After having to bide his time behind a deep group of veterans on the Dinos offensive line early in his career, he has developed into a two-time All-Canadian. Strong, aggressive, and tough, he plays with a definite edge and a desire to physically dominate his opponents. Danny Groulx (OL, Laval, 6'7", 335 lbs.): His size is his most obvious asset but not by a long shot is it his only one. He moves surprisingly well for his size and also demonstrates the strength (29 bench press reps at the 2014 East West Bowl) to go along with his mass. He could garner NFL free agent interest. Karl Lavoie (OL, Laval, 6'4", 285 lbs.): Manning the left tackle position for the Rouge et Or, he has been selected as an All-Canadian twice and an RSEQ All-Star three times. He possesses good footwork and is technically sound but will need to add weight to play at the next level. Sean McEwen (OC, Calgary, 6'3, 300 lbs.): This two-time All-Canadian ranks as one of the most CFL-ready prospects in this class. While his outstanding technique and high football IQ are perhaps his greatest strengths, he is also physically impressive in terms of both strength and quickness. Jacob Ruby (OT, Richmond, 6'7", 315 lbs.): This former tight end had originally committed to UConn before signing with the Spiders. He emerged as a four-year starter, primarily at left tackle, earning various All-Conference accolades over the last three seasons. Unlike 2008, where current CFL starters Jon Gott and Luc Brodeur-Jourdain were drafted in later rounds, the 2015 O-Line class appears to be a little top heavy. The CFL Combine will present an opportunity for three NCAA Division 1 products, Campbell Allison (Eastern Michigan), and possibly James Bodanis (Michigan State) and Quinn Lawlor (Brigham Young) to prove themselves worthy of filling that void behind the top prospects. David Beard (Alberta) would have also fallen into that category this weekend but the Second Team All-Canadian had to decline his combine invitation due to an injured wrist that required surgery. As an aside, Dillon Guy (Buffalo), who had appeared among the Canadian Scouting Bureau's Top 15 prospects in both their September and December rankings, has been reclassified to 2016 after missing the entire season due to injury and taking a medical redshirt.

From Duane Forde: Who's the best receiver in the draft class? If you asked all nine teams who the top three receiver prospects in the Class of 2015 are, they’d likely all list Nic Demski, Lemar Durant, and Addison Richards. However, if you then asked them to rank those prospects from first to third, you’d get (the maximum possible) six different responses. Bear in mind that a player’s combine performance is just one of many tools used in the evaluation process but it’s expected that the answer to the burning question, “Who is the best receiver in this draft class?” will become at least a little clearer between now and Monday. Here (alphabetically) is a brief look at each of the “contenders”: Nic Demski (SB, Manitoba, 5’11”, 210 lbs.): One of the most explosive athletes in this draft class, he led the nation in yards per catch at 21.8 last season and also boasts four career kick return touchdowns. In fact, prior to being named an All-Canadian receiver each of the last two seasons, this converted running back was an All-Canadian kick returner in 2011 and 2012. In terms of testing numbers, he was among the top overall performers at the East West Bowl last May in the forty, vertical, and broad jump, and topped the receivers with 21 reps on the bench. Lemar Durant (WR, Simon Fraser, 6’2”, 231 lbs.): Simply put, he has often looked like a man among boys in his three seasons in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference and, like Christian Covington, declared for the draft a year early. Big, fast, physical, and athletic, he began his college career at the University of Nevada in 2010 but a knee injury limited his action and led him to transfer to SFU in 2012. His injury history could be a concern, as he missed nine of the Clan’s 21 games over the last two seasons. His production, however, can’t be questioned – 23 games, 175 receptions, 2392 yards, and 26 TD. Addison Richards (WR, Regina, 6’5”, 210 lbs.): This East West Shrine Game participant continues the Rams tradition of producing top receiver prospects. After a slow start to his CIS career with just six catches for 109 yards through his first two years, he exploded with 100 receptions for 1530 yards in his last two years. The two-time All-Canadian led the nation with 916 receiving yards in 2014. Although generally not regarded as being as explosive as Demski, the pair had very similar forty-yard dash and broad jump numbers at the CIS east West Bowl last spring.

@PentonKirk: 3. Five-yard no yards penalty will be tacked on to return instead of at spot of foul. #CFL

From Drew Edwards: Here is a brief summary of changes being proposed by the CFL rules committee after their meeting this evening. You can read the full release from the CFL. Remember, all of these still need to be ratified by the board of governors. • a kick for a single point, which now comes from the 12-yard line, would come instead from the 32-yard line. • a kicked convert that is wide would remain live and can be run back for a two-point score. • two point converts would be scrimmaged from the three-yard line, instead of the current five-yard line. • during the pre-season, a convert worth three points when a team chooses to run or pass the ball over the goal line from the ten-yard-line. • defensive player would be allowed to contact a receiver within five yards of the line of scrimmage, but would not allow either a defender or a receiver to create or initiate contact that impedes or redirects an opponent beyond five yards. • on a punt play, when the ball bounces on the ground and a five yard no yards penalty is called, the penalty will automatically be added to the end of the return, or from the point the ball was first touched by the return team, whichever is better. Currently, the receiving team has to choose between the five-yard penalty or the yards gained on the return. • any time in the game the offence be allowed to signal to the referee that it doesn't want to substitute and it wants to use a tempo offence. The officials would then blow the play in immediately upon the ball and yardsticks being set for play. • on punts, prohibiting the five interior linemen on the kicking team from leaving the line of scrimmage until the ball is kicked. • remove the ability of a coach to request a measurement, leaving it to the referee to measure when he is unsure if a first down has been made or not. • offensive pass interference subject to video review. • no longer giving the receiving team the option of demanding that a team kick again after one of its kick offs goes out of bounds. The receiving team will either take the ball where it went out of bounds, or at a point 30 yards in advance of where the ball was kicked off, whichever is better.