Reputation Activity
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bb1 reacted to HardCoreBlue in 25/26 CFL (Non Bombers) Off Season ThreadThis coming season my man ZC is going to stay healthy, light it up, lead us to Grey Cup victory and retire on top.
At the very least it feels good writing this. Off season hope.
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bb1 reacted to wbbfan in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadQb, Zach. Back up, TBD. Guy to watch, Perkins. He could go anywhere from qb2 to cut early in camp. Step up or step out, guys, Chase and Wilson.
Need level is High for a vet backup, and a young guy who progresses.
Rb, Brady. Back up Peterson/MCI. MCI is pretty locked in for his versatility, but this is the time we need to see him step forward as a ball carrier. Sleeper, JJ Taylor. Legit NFL guy in a very deep backs room, with the wrong passport.
The need level is very low. Wouldn't be against drafting an interesting back in the late rounds to keep guys being pushed. Don't expect more than that.
Wr, imps. White and Wilson as starters. Guys to watch, Banks (another legit NFL guy with great measurables)
Need level, medium. We are likely flipping the ratio, but we at least need guys who push both NI and Imps for their spots.
Wr Nis. Demski, Nield, and Clercius as starters. Clericius at that group needs to solidify his spot more than he should have to as well. Guys who need to step up and will likely be pushed by a draft pick(s), Corcoran, and Cobb.
Need level, Medium-High. We have a lot of meh; we need more quality and athleticism.
T, Starters, Broxton, Bryant, Randolph. More guys than spots can be a good thing. In this group, Bryant and Randolph should be fighting for the 2nd spot. One might slide in side—chances we DI an OL after that are pretty low. Back-ups, Stewart, and Poncius are league guys with upside. New guys to watch, Dooley, and the returning Elsbury, who has a ton of potential.
Need level: Very low.
G, Starters, Neufeld, Wallace, Vanterpool, and Randolph. Way more bodies than spots here. Wallace should be a lock to at least be the 6th OL, as he has snapped and worked some C in camp here. Vanterpool has been much better at G than Rando, but Rando has more upside, and long-term is an RT here. We've got some young guys, but for Imps, the chance of jumping up to the top 2-3 on that list is basically impossible.
Need level: Low. You always need to be developing Canadian OL, but that's really its own thing as well. PR spot is fine, we still likely draft an OL high at G for that spot.
C, Starter, Eli. Back up, Vibert. Our thinnest position on the OL. But there is a chance we actually flip the ratio at C, not G. Vanterpool could be a candidate for that, as could rookies like Bucky Williams, Zovon, and Mazzucca.
Need level, medium-high. Need someone to step up and take that spot. We have lots of guys who could do it; we just need one to actually follow through in camp.
DE, starters WJ. Fringe, Jenkins, and Jaworski. Guys to watch: Bailey, Bogle, and Dixon. Fletcher and Jaworski also have some ability to play 3t, and do more in 30 fronts with their size and builds. Especially Fletcher.
Need, very strong. We have some guy, but we need more. And we need all the ends to step up this year.
DT, Starters, Lawson, and Ceresna. Back-ups Schmekel and Kornelson. Schemekel brings a lot of versatility and motor, a career overachiever who probably doesn't have another step up in terms of quality in him. Kornelson is a warm body at best. The rest of the depth so far is really tied up in guys like Fletcher, who are tweeners.
Need level, Medium. We need guys to step up and provide depth, and we need to bring in some true inside DL to push in camp.
Lbers, starters, Jones, JSK, Kyrie. Needs to step up to stick around, Kyrie, Ayers, and Jones should be close to that list too. Young guys to watch: Smith, Shay, and Novak. Those 3 are basically locks to make the roster, but a 2nd year step forward would have them more than ready to steal jobs. Sleeper list, Bouyer-Randle (legit NFL guy) Aaron smith (versatile big play guy), Micah Cretsinger (play maker 5 defensive tds, 2FR, 7 FF, 10PKDs, 10 picks, 7.5 sacks, 32.5 TFL, 271 tackles in 44 games) Johnny Hodges (he played 16 games at NAVY... you know hes making this damn roster.)
Need level: extremely low. But this draft has a bunch of teams' guys who roster as lbers, and you can bet we will draft at least 1.
DBs, starters, Nichols, Holm, Kramdi, and Moxey. Vets who started and will be battling to keep/win a primary role, Griffin, Allen, and Woodbey internally, plus outside the team league guys in Lamont, McGhee, and Javier. We also have Mccuthcheon who was on NFL PRs for a couple of years, and Javaris Davis, who was signed to play last year but didn't report, and was extended late last year. He played a couple of years in the NFL and some time in the XFL. He looks to have been out of football for a couple of years and is 29 years old. Which you just don't see up here or with us in DBs.
K, Sergio is excellent. An extra leg in camp is always a good idea.
P, Sheahan was much more reliable last year. We should still look to bring in competition. I'd be happy to bring back James Evans from last year.
KR, Vaval is coming in with a ton of expectation. We could use a contingency plan for him if he struggles in year 2 after such an insane rookie year.
Overall, we still have needs at Imp WR, DE/DT, C, and backup QB. Draft-wise, we need Canadians who can step into starting roles in the future. We have solid back-end of the roster depth, and lots of teams guys.
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bb1 got a reaction from Tracker in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadThis offseason feels way too long..🏈
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You want Fajardo or Adams? No thanks. CoFaj is inconsistent which is the story of his career. That's why he hasn't found a home. Even after winning a Grey Cup. Adams just panics. Defenses get into his head & he gets rattled. He has great games followed by absolute stinkers. If we had cut Collaros & used either, we'd have missed the playoffs. You're the one hung up on money here. Was Collaros overpaid, sure but not by much. With the new reworked deal, maybe $50000. But that doesn't buy a lot on the free agent market these days, anyway.
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bb1 got a reaction from HardCoreBlue in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadThis offseason feels way too long..🏈
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bb1 got a reaction from wbbfan in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadThis offseason feels way too long..🏈
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bb1 got a reaction from Super Duper Negatron in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadThis offseason feels way too long..🏈
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bb1 reacted to BigBlue in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadTHE LATEST FROM CHAT
Here’s a clear analysis of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ personnel changes so far for the 2026 season (mainly the 2025-26 offseason and early 2026 roster moves). I’ll break it into: key additions, key departures, re-signings, and overall impact on the team.
1. Major Additions (Free Agency / Signings)
The Bombers were more aggressive than usual in free agency, targeting a few high-quality players rather than signing many depth pieces.
Impact additions
Jarell Broxton (OL) – considered one of the top CFL free agents available.
Jake Ceresna (DL) – a proven pass-rushing defensive tackle added to boost the interior rush.
Tim White (WR) – explosive receiver who can stretch the field.
Jonathan Moxey (DB) – experienced defensive back.
Tommy Nield (WR) – Canadian depth receiver.
Jovan Santos-Knox (LB) – veteran linebacker signing.
Development / NFL-background additions
Michael Fletcher (DE) – former NFL camp player with pass-rush potential.
Aaron Smith (LB) – young linebacker prospect.
Robert Javier (DB) – defensive depth with NFL and CFL experience.
What this means
Strong emphasis on defensive front + offensive line improvement
Added speed and depth at receiver
2. Key Re-Signings (Maintaining the Core)
Winnipeg’s strategy still revolves around keeping its championship core together.
Important extensions include:
Willie Jefferson (DE)
Stanley Bryant (LT)
Brady Oliveira (RB)
Nic Demski (WR)
Patrick Neufeld (OL)
Evan Holm (DB)
Deatrick Nichols (DB)
Many of these players were pending free agents but were re-signed before or during free agency to keep continuity.
Impact:
The Bombers still have the same leadership spine that powered their Grey Cup runs.
3. Notable Departures / Free Agents
Several players from the 2025 team were not re-signed and hit free agency, including:
Chris Streveler (QB)
Dalton Schoen (WR)
Dillon Mitchell (WR)
Jerreth Sterns (WR)
Kody Case (WR)
Eric Lofton (OL)
James Vaughters (DE)
Jamal Woods (DT)
Shayne Gauthier (LB)
Terrell Bonds (DB)
Many of these players had contracts expire after the 2025 season.
Biggest impact:
The receiver group saw heavy turnover
Some depth on the defensive line and secondary left
4. Position-by-Position Impact
Offense
QB
Zach Collaros remains the starter.
Depth behind him is still developing.
RB
Brady Oliveira extended → keeps the run game elite.
WR
Significant turnover.
New players like Tim White and Tommy Nield could change the offensive style.
Offensive Line
Broxton signing strengthens interior protection.
Veterans like Bryant and Neufeld maintain stability.
Defense
Defensive Line
Addition of Jake Ceresna is huge for interior pressure.
Willie Jefferson still anchors the edge.
Linebacker
Added depth with Santos-Knox and Aaron Smith.
Secondary
Mostly retained core players but added depth signings like Javier.
5. Overall Offseason Strategy
The Bombers’ approach can be summarized as:
1️⃣ Reload, not rebuild
They kept the core of the Grey Cup era.
2️⃣ Improve trenches
Major focus on OL and DL upgrades.
3️⃣ Reset the receiver room
Let multiple receivers walk and brought in new talent.
6. Early Offseason Grade (Analyst Perspective)
Strengths
Stronger offensive line
More pass rush inside
Core leadership intact
Concerns
Receiver chemistry still unknown
Aging defensive core
QB depth behind Collaros
Overall early grade:
A- / B+ offseason — many analysts say Winnipeg was one of the most effective teams in CFL free agency.
✅ Bottom line:
The Bombers didn’t overhaul the roster—they retooled around the same championship core, strengthened the trenches, and refreshed the receiving corps to push for another Grey Cup run.
New Players Who Could Become Stars
These are the most likely breakout players from the new additions or younger talent.
1️⃣ Tim White (WR)
Why he could explode
Elite speed and route running
Already proven in the CFL with big seasons
Winnipeg lacked explosive deep threats last year
Potential impact
Could become the team’s #1 receiver
1,200+ yard season is realistic.
2️⃣ Jake Ceresna (DT)
One of the best interior defensive linemen in the CFL.
Why he matters
Interior pass rush collapses pockets
Makes life easier for Willie Jefferson off the edge
Potential impact
6–10 sacks from the DT position
Could become a Defensive Player of the Year candidate
3️⃣ Jarell Broxton (OL)
A massive offensive lineman added to strengthen protection.
Why he’s important
Improves pass protection for Collaros
Creates better run lanes for Oliveira
Potential impact
Could become one of the CFL’s top guards quickly
4️⃣ Jaylen Smith (LB)
Young Canadian linebacker drafted in 2025.
Led his college team in tackles
Athletic and versatile defender
Potential impact
Could develop into a future starting linebacker and Canadian ratio piece
5️⃣ Ontaria Wilson (WR)
Young receiver already showing promise.
Why he’s interesting
Good size and speed
Could benefit from defenses focusing on Demski and White
Potential impact
Breakout candidate with 800–1000 yards
🔎 Overall Outlook for 2026
Strengths
Elite run game (Oliveira)
Strong defensive front (Jefferson + Ceresna)
Veteran offensive line
Question marks
Aging core
Receiver chemistry with new players
Depth behind Collaros
Projected 2026 Winnipeg Blue Bombers Starting Lineup
(Projection based on roster and free-agency additions — actual starters will depend on training camp battles.)
Offense
QB — Zach Collaros
Still the franchise quarterback and offensive leader heading into 2026.
RB — Brady Oliveira
The offense revolves around his running and receiving ability.
WR — Tim White (NEW)
Major free-agent addition and likely deep-threat receiver.
WR — Ontaria Wilson
Young receiver who flashed big-play ability last season.
SB — Nic Demski
Top Canadian receiver and one of the most versatile offensive players.
SB — Tommy Nield (NEW)
Canadian receiver added in free agency who could play a ratio role.
LT — Stanley Bryant
Veteran anchor of the offensive line.
LG — Jarell Broxton (NEW)
Winnipeg’s biggest free-agent signing and expected starter immediately.
C — Chris Kolankowski
RG — Patrick Neufeld
RT — Micah Vanterpool
Defense
DE — Willie Jefferson
Still one of the CFL’s most dominant defensive players.
DT — Jake Ceresna (NEW)
All-star defensive tackle who should boost interior pass rush.
DT — Jake Thomas
DE — TyJuan Garbutt
WLB — Jovan Santos-Knox (NEW)
Veteran linebacker brought in during free agency.
MLB — Kyrie Wilson
SLB — Redha Kramdi
Secondary
CB — Deatrick Nichols
HB — Jamal Parker
HB — Jonathan Moxey (NEW)
CB — Ridge Texada
S — Brandon Alexander
Special Teams
K — Sergio Castillo
P — Jamieson Sheahan
Returner — Tim White
⭐ New Blue Bombers Who Could Become Stars
1️⃣ Tim White (WR)
One of the biggest offensive additions.
Why he could break out:
Proven CFL playmaker with elite speed
Can stretch the field vertically
Could become the Bombers’ primary big-play receiver
Possible impact:
1,000+ receiving yards
Elite return specialist
2️⃣ Jake Ceresna (DT)
One of the best defensive tackles in the CFL.
Why he matters:
Interior pressure makes life easier for Willie Jefferson
Disrupts both run and pass plays
Possible impact:
6–10 sacks
Potential All-CFL candidate
3️⃣ Jarell Broxton (OL)
Winnipeg’s most important offensive line signing.
Why he could become elite:
Already an All-CFL level lineman before joining Winnipeg
Strengthens both pass protection and the run game
Impact:
Could become one of the best guards in the league
4️⃣ Key’Shawn Smith (WR)
Young receiver with NFL experience who joined the Bombers in 2026.
Why he’s interesting:
Former SMU star with strong college production
Speedy receiver with return ability
Potential:
Training camp breakout candidate
📊 Overall 2026 Outlook
Strengths
Elite running back (Oliveira)
Strong veteran offensive line
Improved defensive front with Ceresna
Biggest question
Receiver chemistry after roster turnover
Expectation
Still a Grey Cup contender if the new receivers produce.
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bb1 got a reaction from Noeller in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadThis offseason feels way too long..🏈
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bb1 got a reaction from Bigblue204 in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadThis offseason feels way too long..🏈
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bb1 got a reaction from blue85gold in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadThis offseason feels way too long..🏈
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bb1 reacted to BBlink in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadWe will learn a lot by how well he performs this year. No excuses as I think he has the tools now. I believe he will have a huge bounce back year.
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bb1 got a reaction from kelownabomberfan in Game 61 : Lightning & Thunder - Sad Season BlueGuess he was Dayquil last night...ugh,i will show myself out..🤪
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bb1 got a reaction from Piggy 1 in Game 61 : Lightning & Thunder - Sad Season BlueGuess he was Dayquil last night...ugh,i will show myself out..🤪
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bb1 reacted to Rich in Game 61 : Lightning & Thunder - Sad Season BlueQuestion is how much would you pay him to be a 3rd pairing defensemen? Its not just about developing and keeping him, at the free agent stage, the number has to make sense.
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Lol people complained that he didnt/wouldn't restructure...now we're complaining that he did restructure?
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bb1 reacted to Goalie in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadHulk still rules.
Honestly. It’s probably where he should be. QBs get paid and his resume is solid. 3rd highest after 5 straight cup appearances and 1 early playoff exit makes sense to me.
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bb1 reacted to Noeller in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadNah Brazzell's most memorable play was Glenn faking taking a knee right before time expires on the opening half, but instead drops back and hits Brazell for a deep shot just as the clock ran out for half time. Was incredible.
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Well if you want we can discuss what I had for lunch.
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bb1 reacted to Stickem in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion Threadyeah....that was kind of an awkward escort into the end zone ...He wasn't a bad receiver but not a 'Milt'.......................................Wow topics around here are getting a little thin.... can't wait for the draft
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bb1 reacted to SpeedFlex27 in 25/26 CFL (Non Bombers) Off Season ThreadI agree. His starting days may be over but he could be the perfect backup working with zach in the qb room. Helping younger guys develop. But man, it's sad when religious beliefs are mocked by some fans.
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bb1 reacted to GCn20 in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadWe have last year's UFL MVP coming to camp, that's how much lighting it up in the UFL is worth.
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bb1 reacted to GCn20 in Blue Bombers -- 2025/26 Offseason -- Discussion ThreadI really don't mind if we reach with the extra pick IF it's for a guy that is a bubble NFLer. If we have to wait a year or two I'm OK with that.
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3DownNation
Edmonton Elks, Winnipeg Blue Bombers awarded extra picks...
The Edmonton Elks and Winnipeg Blue Bombers have been awarded extra picks in the 2026 CFL Draft, the league office has confirmed to 3DownNation. Each year,Bombers get an extra pick at 20.
Not sure if any other picks have moved but that would put the Bombers at 4, 13, 20, 24 for the first three rounds.
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Bombers signed this guy.