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

On 2026-03-07 at 3:18 PM, HardCoreBlue said:

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

Maier is the highest paid BACKUP QB. I think that tells you what other coaches think of the guy as a starter. Even he's talking about taking his CFL career one year at a time. Is he even 30 yet? He knows that a couple of bad showings & he's done. Get his money while he can.

3 hours ago, Booch said:

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...

I think the possibility is there for Zach to have a rennaissance season with Tommy Condell. We all thought Trevor Harris was finished but he was elite last season. The question is at age 40/41 can he keep doing it? Zach is 37. Turning 38 this season, can he do the same? Yes, it'll be interesting.

To me, it's not about Zach's skill level or body strength, or about the new and better coach: I have great and better expectations this year for both of them

The key is how healthy Zach can stay. Almost no quarterback plays all 18 games and all the playoffs. They're all down for a while each season with one thing or another. The big question is how often he will be hurt with small things or bigger and even more importantly how quickly his old body will take to recover.

That's what takes every pld pro down: injury recovery time. We can evaluate that, can do the probabilities but sometimes it just comes down to plain old lock.

It could be true that the wisdom of our analysis depends on luck!

5 hours 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.

typical ai quality lmao. makes 3dn/cfl.ca look like the pinnacle of media reporting

Delete

Edited 18 hours ago18 hr by M.O.A.B.

6 hours ago, BigBlue said:

may want to relook at the defense -hard to make team if your not on roster

---

6 hours ago, BigBlue said:

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 RETIRED

DE — TyJuan Garbutt IN HAMILTON

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 IN BC

HB — Jonathan Moxey (NEW)

CB — Ridge Texada

S — Brandon Alexander RETIRED

Edited 17 hours ago17 hr by Pete

6 hours 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.

Got my thumb workout quickly swiping up and up and up . . .

Edited 17 hours ago17 hr by HardCoreBlue

5 hours ago, BigBlue said:

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

Is Chat aware that a lot of those listed are retired or playing for a different team?

I hate this AI ****.

51 minutes ago, bigg jay said:

Is Chat aware that a lot of those listed are retired or playing for a different team?

Or that Broxton is not a guard.

There's reason they call it "AI Slip"... What a load of garbage and a waste of my click.

15 hours ago, GCn20 said:

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

Hard money or total contract. It doesn't matter. Both tell the same story.

15 hours ago, SpeedFlex27 said:

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.

Money is the discussion.

What is inconsequential is who could take his place, but Adams and Faj-JJ were both available in 2025, would have cost half the money, and played significantly better. This year the pickings are slim, but that doesn't mean that Collaros is being paid properly.

Edited 5 hours ago5 hr by TBURGESS

12 hours ago, bigg jay said:

Is Chat aware that a lot of those listed are retired or playing for a different team?

Not to mention texada over holm, no vaval returning, just a mess of trash. Exactly what I expect from AI.

Hopefully, this is the last of the AI Blue Bomber team summaries. We don't need to read them. Full stop, please.

1 hour ago, TBURGESS said:

Hard money or total contract. It doesn't matter. Both tell the same story.

Money is the discussion.

What is inconsequential is who could take his place, but Adams and Faj-JJ were both available in 2025, would have cost half the money, and played significantly better. This year the pickings are slim, but that doesn't mean that Collaros is being paid properly.

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.

29 minutes ago, SpeedFlex27 said:

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.

See? This is why you wanted to change the discussion from Collaros getting paid too much to something else that you could debate. It's why the discussion of who would have been better is academic. Just mental masturbation.
FTR: It doesn't matter who was available because we gave Collaros his contract before we even knew who was available.

8 minutes ago, TBURGESS said:

See? This is why you wanted to change the discussion from Collaros getting paid too much to something else that you could debate. It's why the discussion of who would have been better is academic. Just mental masturbation.
FTR: It doesn't matter who was available because we gave Collaros his contract before we even knew who was available.

1 hour ago, wbbfan said:

Not to mention texada over holm, no vaval returning, just a mess of trash. Exactly what I expect from AI.

For you and people like @Booch and @JuranBoldenRules, the next time I offer up my detailed 'expert' analysis recap of a Bomber game just say over and over again the bold part above to lessen the pain you're feeling while reading it.

Qb, 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.

Edited 2 hours ago2 hr by wbbfan

I think the jig was up when Vaval wasn't even mentioned....I believe he's still under contract for 26'.....Otherwise a big DUH for the AI take ....Says were still a contender for the Cup...hmmmm..isn't every team Day 1

51 minutes ago, wbbfan said:

Qb, 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. Vanterpool 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.

get this AI crap outta here! 😁

My concern about the glut of OL talent we have now is where Bryant fits in... he's the goat and still has game left... but assuming we go 3 Imp on the OL... if we started Broxton-Venderpool-Eli-Nefueld-Randolph.... who does Bryant replace that makes the group better?... he's behind Broxton at this stage of his career... is he an improvement on Vandy or Randolph at a position he's never played?

39 minutes ago, bearpants said:

get this AI crap outta here! 😁

My concern about the glut of OL talent we have now is where Bryant fits in... he's the goat and still has game left... but assuming we go 3 Imp on the OL... if we started Broxton-Venderpool-Eli-Nefueld-Randolph.... who does Bryant replace that makes the group better?... he's behind Broxton at this stage of his career... is he an improvement on Vandy or Randolph at a position he's never played?

Don't worry about that, no intelligence of any kind to be found. 😉

The OL glut is as much a concern as it is an asset. We will have to manage that position expertly, or get extremely lucky. I really don't want to lose Rando, Vanterpool, or Wallace. But Bryant is integral to continuity in our OL.

This will be the biggest position to watch of camp for me. And a huge success indicator for us.

The easiest solution might be to go 4 imps for 1 year. If we go with Broxton, Randolph, Bryant, Vanterpool, and Neufeld, we will likely dominate opposition DLs on talent alone. Basically, as long as Neufeld isnt at T, any alignment could succeed.

Its already been said Broxton will be RT...Bryant LT this yr....the big question is whats going on at left guard...Does Wallace step up and show he is established there....hopefully so as I would rather us not have 3 import Oline guys as in all honesty, that wouldn't really be a huge impact on the over all team strength. The addition of another impactul DT or DE tho gives our defence way more depth...strength and flexibility...it's the better path to take

I am 100 percent certain ELI will be at center, so the notion of a U,S center is kinda out in space dreaming, and really a import there expected to recognize the Canadian game defensive schemes and figure out the blocking....on the fly....no thank you...Maybe if we had a young QB with escapability and not a luandry list of injury concerns or one good shot away from being on the IR for an extended time... sure....not with ZC tho....I can't see Osh rolling those dice

The addition of Broxton.....The expunging of Kolo and am certain the advancement in Wallace...we already are significantly better than we were...and deeper....and we have a real O.C who will be able to create schemes with the whole unit

IMHO, we have had a massive overall upgrade, but still have a couple of concerns. Firstly, I would have been happier with an incentive-loaded contract for Collaros as he is getting to the age where the wheels are gonna fall off. We absolutely need a backup QB to step up. The longer the Elgersma situation drags on, the lower the likelihood he will be delayed in arriving- maybe never.