Per 3downnation, these are our free agents ... basically everyone but Zach, Vaval, Peterson, Clercius, Randolph, Wallace, Pokey Wilson, MCI, Allen, T. Jones, and Leroux the longsnapper.  

Quarterback

Chris Streveler (A)

Running back

Brady Oliveira (N)

Receiver

Kody Case (A)
Nic Demski (N)
Dillon Mitchell (A)
Dalton Schoen (A)
Jerreth Sterns (A)
Keric Wheatfall (A)

OL

Stanley Bryant (A)
Tui Eli (N)
Chris Kolankowski (N)
Eric Lofton (A)
Patrick Neufeld (N)

Defensive line

Willie Jefferson (A)
Cameron Lawson (N)
Tanner Schmekel (N)
Jake Thomas (N)
James Vaughters (A)
Jamal Woods (A)

Linebacker

Tanner Cadwallader (N)
Shayne Gauthier (N)
Kyrie Wilson (A)

Defensive back

Terrell Bonds (A)
Michael Griffin II (A)
Nick Hallett (N)
Evan Holm (A)
Demerio Houston (A)
Redha Kramdi (N)
Enock Makonzo (N)
Deatrick Nichols (A)
Jamal Parker (A)

Specialist

Sergio Castillo (A)
Jamieson Sheahan (G)

Edited November 12, 2025Nov 12 by johnzo

First off, what other QB's were available is a red herring. What other QB's are available only matters if another team was willing to pay Collaros more than we did. We could have offered less and still signed him, IMO.

For yucks though... Let's say we decided to go younger with Maier or Powell. Then we'd have $300K extra to upgrade other parts of the team. You can debate if $300K with a lesser QB is better or worse for our playoff chances if you want.

1 hour ago, TBURGESS said:

First off, what other QB's were available is a red herring. What other QB's are available only matters if another team was willing to pay Collaros more than we did. We could have offered less and still signed him, IMO.

For yucks though... Let's say we decided to go younger with Maier or Powell. Then we'd have $300K extra to upgrade other parts of the team. You can debate if $300K with a lesser QB is better or worse for our playoff chances if you want.

And probably not win. Maier was dreadful as a starter in Calgary. He hasn't shown he'd do any better as a starter. Powell hasn't played much. No one knows what he can do. Powell has sat for 4 seasons. You want to gamble the future on those 2 to save some money? I don't.

Edited Saturday at 05:29 PM2 days by SpeedFlex27

16 hours ago, BBlink said:

We 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.

Let’s tag this coming season as ‘All in’.

2 hours ago, SpeedFlex27 said:

There are no starting qbs on the horizon anywhere. The backup qb situation sucks.

With all respect to ZC and others, could also argue current CFL starting qb’s need a significant upgrade. We get nine elite QB’s across the league we help enhance our league.

1 hour ago, HardCoreBlue said:

With all respect to ZC and others, could also argue current CFL starting qb’s need a significant upgrade. We get nine elite QB’s across the league we help enhance our league.

Where are these upgrades going to come from? No one answers because they have none yet the bitching never stops. We just have a bunch of spoiled whiners here complaining about his salary whether Collaros takes a paycut or not. Like they're paying him themselves.

Edited Saturday at 07:50 PM2 days by SpeedFlex27

4 minutes ago, SpeedFlex27 said:

Where are these upgrades going to come from? No one answers because they have none yet the bitching never stops. We just have a bunch of spoiled whiners here complaining about his salary whether Collaros takes a paycut or not. Like they're paying him themselves.

Scouting? Combing the earth to uncover prospects? Enticing the NFL fringe QB’s to play here with creative compensation structures?

49 minutes ago, HardCoreBlue said:

Scouting? Combing the earth to uncover prospects? Enticing the NFL fringe QB’s to play here with creative compensation structures?

Sure. Scouting guarantees us the next HOF qb. Lol. If only it was that easy. Try again.

Edited Saturday at 09:30 PM2 days by SpeedFlex27

56 minutes ago, SpeedFlex27 said:

Sure. Scouting guarantees us the next HOF qb. Lol. If only it was that easy. Try again.

4 hours ago, SpeedFlex27 said:

And probably not win. Maier was dreadful as a starter in Calgary. He hasn't shown he'd do any better as a starter. Powell hasn't played much. No one knows what he can do. Powell has sat for 4 seasons. You want to gamble the future on those 2 to save some money? I don't.

Missing the point as always.
We didn't have to pay Collaros what we did unless there was another bidder willing to pay more. If you think there was, show your work.

Maier was terrible, but the comparison isn't Maier vs Collaros at the same price. It's Maier + $300k or more to spend on other players vs Collaros and his salary. $300K would go a long way to fix our O and D lines for example.

No one is talking about gambling the future on any QB.

4 hours ago, SpeedFlex27 said:

And probably not win. Maier was dreadful as a starter in Calgary. He hasn't shown he'd do any better as a starter. Powell hasn't played much. No one knows what he can do. Powell has sat for 4 seasons. You want to gamble the future on those 2 to save some money? I don't.

And currently isn’t Maier the highest paid CFL QB? Good gracious.

1 hour ago, TBURGESS said:

Missing the point as always.
We didn't have to pay Collaros what we did unless there was another bidder willing to pay more. If you think there was, show your work.

Maier was terrible, but the comparison isn't Maier vs Collaros at the same price. It's Maier + $300k or more to spend on other players vs Collaros and his salary. $300K would go a long way to fix our O and D lines for example.

No one is talking about gambling the future on any QB.

What kind of twisted logic is that? You make no sense. With your argument, every player is overpaid. And there's no market for any player to ask for money. You realize that Rourke will be making $700,000 in 2027 & $800,000 in 2029? Is he worth it? Has he got the Lions to the Grey Cup? What's he won??

there's no doubt that we overpaid for Collaros for this year based on his performance over the past two years

The problem was that there isn't a lot of alternatives. Walters needed to show some backbone knowing that no one else would pay more than 500k. However if it had dragged on, it certainly would have made it harder to attract free agents without a legitimate qb under contract. Unfortunately, this was a year where there was no other starting qbs available. The other factor is that we were able to resign our own free agents to have one more crack with this core at the cup

Edited Sunday at 01:09 AM2 days by Pete

6 hours ago, Pete said:

there's no doubt that we overpaid for Collaros for this year based on his performance over the past two years

The problem was that there isn't a lot of alternatives. Walters needed to show some backbone knowing that no one else would pay more than 500k. However if it had dragged on, it certainly would have made it harder to attract free agents without a legitimate qb under contract. Unfortunately, this was a year where there was no other starting qbs available. The other factor is that we were able to resign our own free agents to have one more crack with this core at the cup

There were qbs available like Powell. Whether he can win as an eventual starter is debatable. The problem with the Bombers is that they're stuck waiting on Egersma to come up here at the expense of everything else. Walters won't sign anyone until he knows if the Canadian kid is coming here. The logic to which I don't understand because no CFL contract is guaranteed. In other words, they could have signed Powell had they wanted to because if they chose to they could release him later if Elgersma has a change of heart. If not Powell, then a couple of the depth qbs they have now on the roster like Artoepus & Wilson. We shouldn't be keeping a backup qb seat open for a rookie. I have a feeling that Elgersma doesn't want to play here anyway & we'll eventually have to trade his rights to a team in Southern Ontario.

16 hours ago, SpeedFlex27 said:

What kind of twisted logic is that? You make no sense. With your argument, every player is overpaid. And there's no market for any player to ask for money. You realize that Rourke will be making $700,000 in 2027 & $800,000 in 2029? Is he worth it? Has he got the Lions to the Grey Cup? What's he won??

I didn't say every player is overpaid. I said Collaros is overpaid.

Rourke is the face of the league and its best QB. He should be the highest-paid player. Of course, we're not talking about Rourke. You're just bringing him up to try to change from the Collaros was obviously overpaid conversation that we are having.

Offering Collaros as much as we did was a mistake. Full stop. You and others are trying to justify the obvious mistake.

45 minutes ago, TBURGESS said:

I didn't say every player is overpaid. I said Collaros is overpaid.

Rourke is the face of the league and its best QB. He should be the highest-paid player. Of course, we're not talking about Rourke. You're just bringing him up to try to change from the Collaros was obviously overpaid conversation that we are having.

Offering Collaros as much as we did was a mistake. Full stop. You and others are trying to justify the obvious mistake.

Well the full stop has been brought out. Nothing more to be said here.

HardCoreBlue is right about everything. Full stop.

19 hours ago, TBURGESS said:

Maier was terrible, but the comparison isn't Maier vs Collaros at the same price. It's Maier + $300k or more to spend on other players vs Collaros and his salary. $300K would go a long way to fix our O and D lines for example

Poor example IMO because Kyle walters went out and spent on the lines this year

This offseason feels way too long..🏈

Edited Sunday at 05:56 PM1 day by bb1

THE 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.

3 hours ago, TBURGESS said:

I didn't say every player is overpaid. I said Collaros is overpaid.

Rourke is the face of the league and its best QB. He should be the highest-paid player. Of course, we're not talking about Rourke. You're just bringing him up to try to change from the Collaros was obviously overpaid conversation that we are having.

Offering Collaros as much as we did was a mistake. Full stop. You and others are trying to justify the obvious mistake.

Who would you have given the money to had Collaros left? What free agent qb out there was better? You keep saying it was a mistake. That we overpaid to sign him & don't tell us anything else. Without names, it's a baseless argument.

Edited Sunday at 08:22 PM1 day by SpeedFlex27

10 minutes ago, BigBlue said:

THE 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.

Even Chat doesn't see Kramdi and his salary bloat as a key resigning lol

As for ZC yeah we did hoop ourselves with his anchor of contract last 3 yrs plus thus season...we agreed to pay him that...and if we hardlined and said nope...500k is the max take it or leave it...he either does...or hits FA and someone else ponies up and then their starter shakes loose...and is signed for less...and that 100..150k extra goes a long way in bolstering us elsewhere...4 teams have won the grey cup with a q.b not named ZC the last 4...3 of which a diff qb out performed him...a Sex pest/Looney mbt combo...the Faj....again...the Faj....Nick Fricken Arbuckle...and last yr 15 yr loser Harris won tho not against us but was a big reason they bumped us outta first place as he out performed ZC...so could some other QB have had success here? Most definitely as other than last yr...possibly last 2 we had best lineup across board in league...and with extra cash available not paid to ZC ..prob even better lineup..good coaching...sound scheme and ability to maximize your roster and have right guys in right spots..u can win with a pedestrian qb...now if we kept Brown here who was very comfortable in this system...and with the group of players employed then...do we win a couple more cups..id say yup...tho our piss poor coaching that played a major role in the floppage probably over rides it anyway

Big yr for ZC to show he can have a renasaince in 2026...I have my doubts but guess we will soon see...

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)

Just now, BigBlue said:

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)

Is Dalton done healthwise? Same with scribbler? Are the rest of these boys just a financial decision or were they mostly people we just wanted to move on from?

Does Jake Thomas have a seeing-eye dog?

1 hour ago, SpeedFlex27 said:

Who would you have given the money to had Collaros left? What free agent qb out there was better? You keep saying it was a mistake. That we overpaid to sign him & don't tell us anything else. Without names, it's a baseless argument.

Picking players who may or may not have signed with us is pretty much the definition of a baseless argument. There is not and cannot be any evidence to base that argument on.

The basis of the argument that we paid him too much is the way he played last year. It's the amount that other teams paid their QBs, many of whom were better than Collaros last year. It's that no other team would have paid him as much and that no other team would have resigned him for this year before seeing how he played for at least half a season last year.
IMO Arbuckle and Ford were the only 2 starting QB's who were worse than Collaros last year, & Edmonton replaced Ford halfway through the season. You might want to add Dru Brown to the list, but that's mostly due to injury.

Here is the ranking of the top 9 highest-paid CFL quarterbacks for 2025 based on hard money:

1. Nathan Rourke – B.C. Lions – $624,200

2. Chad Kelly – Toronto Argonauts – $615,000

3. Zach Collaros – Winnipeg Blue Bombers – $600,000

4. Vernon Adams Jr. – Calgary Stampeders – $339,450

5. Trevor Harris – Saskatchewan Roughriders – $299,781

6. Dru Brown – Ottawa Redblacks – $259,931

7. Bo Levi Mitchell – Hamilton Tiger-Cats – $236,374

8. Davis Alexander – Montreal Alouettes – $188,340

9. Tre Ford – Edmonton Elks – $187,610

How can you possibly say that Collaros was paid appropriately?

58 minutes ago, TBURGESS said:

Picking players who may or may not have signed with us is pretty much the definition of a baseless argument. There is not and cannot be any evidence to base that argument on.

The basis of the argument that we paid him too much is the way he played last year. It's the amount that other teams paid their QBs, many of whom were better than Collaros last year. It's that no other team would have paid him as much and that no other team would have resigned him for this year before seeing how he played for at least half a season last year.
IMO Arbuckle and Ford were the only 2 starting QB's who were worse than Collaros last year, & Edmonton replaced Ford halfway through the season. You might want to add Dru Brown to the list, but that's mostly due to injury.

Here is the ranking of the top 9 highest-paid CFL quarterbacks for 2025 based on hard money:

1. Nathan Rourke – B.C. Lions – $624,200

2. Chad Kelly – Toronto Argonauts – $615,000

3. Zach Collaros – Winnipeg Blue Bombers – $600,000

4. Vernon Adams Jr. – Calgary Stampeders – $339,450

5. Trevor Harris – Saskatchewan Roughriders – $299,781

6. Dru Brown – Ottawa Redblacks – $259,931

7. Bo Levi Mitchell – Hamilton Tiger-Cats – $236,374

8. Davis Alexander – Montreal Alouettes – $188,340

9. Tre Ford – Edmonton Elks – $187,610

How can you possibly say that Collaros was paid appropriately?

Your amounts are a complete red herring. I'm not going to argue ZC wasn't overpaid..he was..but basing it solely on hard money not total contract is not even remotely proof of concept

1 hour ago, TBURGESS said:

Picking players who may or may not have signed with us is pretty much the definition of a baseless argument. There is not and cannot be any evidence to base that argument on.

The basis of the argument that we paid him too much is the way he played last year. It's the amount that other teams paid their QBs, many of whom were better than Collaros last year. It's that no other team would have paid him as much and that no other team would have resigned him for this year before seeing how he played for at least half a season last year.
IMO Arbuckle and Ford were the only 2 starting QB's who were worse than Collaros last year, & Edmonton replaced Ford halfway through the season. You might want to add Dru Brown to the list, but that's mostly due to injury.

Here is the ranking of the top 9 highest-paid CFL quarterbacks for 2025 based on hard money:

1. Nathan Rourke – B.C. Lions – $624,200

2. Chad Kelly – Toronto Argonauts – $615,000

3. Zach Collaros – Winnipeg Blue Bombers – $600,000

4. Vernon Adams Jr. – Calgary Stampeders – $339,450

5. Trevor Harris – Saskatchewan Roughriders – $299,781

6. Dru Brown – Ottawa Redblacks – $259,931

7. Bo Levi Mitchell – Hamilton Tiger-Cats – $236,374

8. Davis Alexander – Montreal Alouettes – $188,340

9. Tre Ford – Edmonton Elks – $187,610

How can you possibly say that Collaros was paid appropriately?

It doesn't matter. Money is imconsequential in this discussion. Who is/was out there as free agents that was better than Zach we could have signed? There was no one so your argument makes no sense. It's baseless. You may not like hearing that but facts are facts. They paid Zach because no one else could take his place. Or do it better. That's the reality of the situation. There aren't any backups in the CFL ready to step up & be stars which is a real concern for the longevity of the league.

This is how I see it, TBurgess. I don't know if you agree or not. I don't want to argue with you. You're a veteran observer of the CFL like me. I do respect your opinioon even if we don't always agree.

The problem with the CFL is that coaches now want to waste a roster spot on short yardage slugs at qb like Tommy Stevens, Jake Dolegala, Jarrett Doege, Quincy Vaughan or Chris Streveler. Guys that are called qbs but couldn't run a regular offense if their life depended upon it. So, young qbs that may have a chance if they were developed will get cut because the CFL runs short yardage offenses with these guys scoring touchdowns. All it means that 9 spots that could be used for development are taken up by those guys.

If the NFL can run short yardage with qbs like Brock Purdy, Sam Darnold, Matt Stafford, Dak Prescott, Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes, Bo Nix, Justin Herbert, Aaron Rodgers, Justin Fields, Trevor Lawence etc all starters making millions why is the CFL trying to be cute running short yardage qbs? Because winning games keeps the head coaches employed which usurps qb development. Maybe a great short term thing but disastrous for the CFL long term.

I believe that we need to keep the starters in. Let them run short yardage. Get rid of these gadget qbs & use the QB2 & QB3 positions to actually develop young guys to play. The talent pool at qb in the CFL has dried up. Something has to change.

Edited Sunday at 11:44 PM1 day by SpeedFlex27