M.Silverback

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I'm surprised that Andrew Seinet-Spaulding, DT from McGill is not on the top 20 scouting list. JP Metras winner for outstanding lineman. I watched most of the McGill games, and saw him in person twice. Led the RSEQ in sacks from DT, being doubled teamed constantly. He's a CFL talent. I'm sure Kyle Walters is aware of him.

Totally agree. Willie is an NFL talent, but, that doesn't mean he makes an NFL roster, for the reasons you outlined. My gut says he returns to the Bombers. Kongbo is gone I'd say. He'll make an NFL practice roster for sure based on age, potential and SEC resume.

Well deserved. Grey Cup winning OC. Wonder if he’ll call the offensive plays? Needs a QB. Probably doesn’t bode well for Sinopoli putting up huge numbers. Check down city baby!

Any pictures of Suits crammed against the stage, screaming and crying during Keith Urban's performance? If not, can someone with Photoshop skills please do one? Thanks.

What you're saying makes sense. The CFL draft is definitely the toughest amateur draft. I was saying it's best not to fall into Joe Mack syndrome - choosing BPA even if everyone knows they're a legitimate NFL prospect. Hubbard is a Heisman trophy candidate; Gallimore is a 300 lb athletic freak projected to go first or second round in the NFL draft. A CFL GM is a fool taking either one of those players as high as the first round in the CFL draft. 5th, 6th round ... sure, take a chance. But anything else is a wasted pick. Try whenever possible to pick players that are available to play right away and hopefully contribute. Walters has been excellent at that.

Agree. With the caveat BPA who actually has a chance of playing in the CFL. If Chuba Hubbard or Neville Gallimore are available at number 9, fuggetaboutit. They're never coming to the CFL.

Agree. I would add that while shoulder, knee, etc. injuries are easier to recover from given treatment and surgery options, you have to consider type of injury and position. ACL surgery for a QB isn't as bad as it is for a RB or WR. It does limit mobility, but, a QB really just needs to escape pressure and have a quick release. Tom Brady has has multiple knee surgeries. Recovery from dominant arm shoulder surgery for a QB - now you've got me worried. Especially an older QB (Nichols). Versus shoulder surgery recovery for a WR which isn't really a big concern.

You might be right. And if he gets an NFL shot, great for him. I'm always rooting for any CFL player to make an NFL roster when they get a shot. It's a dangerous, short career in football, if you can maximize your earnings, do it. I'm just not sure Steveler gets an NFL look this off season. If he puts up okay CFL numbers, then I think he'd get a future look. But as of now, he'd have to be a complete position-less player, and I think there are way too many RB's, WR's, TE's ahead of him in the cue. No way he's being considered as an NFL QB. Tim Tebow was every bit as good of an athlete as Strevler, and a better QB, and he couldn't stick. But, maybe times have changed ...

You're right that teams will try to replicate what the Ravens have done. But, Lamar Jackson is really, really good, and always was. It was ridiculous and insulting that some NFL teams wanted him to change positions out Louisville. Lots of other reasons for that. But, smart football people knew he was a true talent. If Streveler could become a CFL version of Jackson-lite we'd all be thrilled.

He's an amazing athlete. And if he was willing to basically become a RB or slot receiver, then maybe he gets a look. But still, there are so many practice roster RB's and WR's, plus a bunch more coming every draft. I just can't see Streveler getting a look at an alternate position ahead of players who actually play those positions. NFL teams still view CFL talent lower on the pecking order than one of their own college draft picks for the most part. And, he's no where near ready to be an NFL QB, even third string. He's not quite ready for be a CFL starter at QB. Pretty sure he re-signs with Winnipeg. If he ever put up decent QB numbers in the CFL, he may get a look down the road with the NFL.

A lot of fake tough guys on the Ti-Cats.

That's my guess too. I'd prefer Collaros over Nichols, but, I think Collaros will be in the east. I think Walters will do short, incentive laden contracts for both Nichols and Streveler, because there are concerns around both (Nichols - recovery from throwing shoulder surgery; Streveler - cool dude, tough competitor, but will he be a top tier CFL QB ever?). McGuire is a wildcard. Throws a great ball; athletic enough - he could ultimately be the best of the three.

That's the key point. I trust Walters when it comes to free agency. He's mostly been on point, doesn't overpay and when he hasn't (like Chris Matthews, Adarius Bowman) he moves on quickly. Winning the Grey Cup actually puts the Bombers in an even better position from a free agent perspective. We have options, depth, and now current players will likely want to stay even more. Other free agents may want to join the current Grey Cup champs. Sure seemed like Willie Jefferson wants to stay based on his comments at the parade. We're in a position of strength.