Potential Lions 2025 free agent list

[David]

It's going to be a tricky off-season for McEvoy/Campbell (assuming one or both keep their GM jobs). How to pare salary yet retain as many free agents as possible in key positions? Both O and D lines need retooling. While our run defense was unquestionably better in 2024, QB pressure continued to be a challenge. Likewise on the offensive line, I didn't think we were nearly physical enough in the trenches. Lots of issues on the right side of the line.

The names in orange are what I would refer to as priority signings.

Running backs/Fullbacks
Jeshrun Antwi (N)
William Stanback (A)
David Mackie (N)

Receivers
Justin McInnis (N)
Terry Williams (A)

Offensive linemen
Sukh Chungh (N)
Michael Couture (N)
David Knevel (N)
Andrew Peirson (N)
Kent Perkins (A)
Chris Schleuger [A)

Defensive linemen
Joshua Archibald (N)
Joshua Banks (A)
Mathieu Betts (N) *if the price is right
Nathan Cherry (N)
Tibo Debaillie (G)
Marcus Moore (A)
Pete Robertson (A)
Sione Teuhema (A)

Linebackers
Bo Lokombo (N)
Isaiah Messam (N)

Defensive backs
Jalon Edwards-Cooper (A)
Ciante Evans (A)
Adrian Greene (N)
T.J. Lee (A)
Patrice Rene (N)
Garry Peters
Emmanuel Rugamba (A)

Specialists
Stefan Flintoft (A)
Riley Pickett (N)
Sean Whyte (N)


DH

[SammyGreene]

As I have posted elsewhere, definitely ready to move on from Couture and Chungh eating up $400,000 in cap space after not being the difference makers they were supposed to be when signed away from the Bombers.
How good are the Bombers at developing national o-lineman? Guard Geoff Gray retired last season and his replacement — 2021 1st round pick Liam Dobson — was named an all-star.

Other than Peters, is there any other position group in the league that has de-valued their price on the FA market than Lions defensive backs thanks to Phillips' horrid zone coverage? The challenge is which of those pending FAs would look a whole lot better not playing under RP? The opportunity is definitely there to completely revamp the secondary and Kent Jr. is hardly rock solid as one of the few returnees. At least he is cheap, as is Beaulieu who is a lock to be starting at safety on his rookie deal.

Interesting that Covington signed more than a 1-year deal and conversely Teuhema extended for just 1 season. Betts' price has come down from last off-season but by how much?

I think combined the Lions spent around $220,000 on the Whyte/Flintoff combo. Is Meyer ready to step in for the later and perhaps also be an option on longer FGs as Whyte ages?

I know the Lions like Williams reliability on returns but he hasn't returned a punt or kickoff for a TD in the past 2 seasons. Just a missed FG in 2023. More importantly there could be better options that can provide a spark to the offence like what Javon Leake did as RB for the Elks this season. Even the Bombers consistently use Lucky Whitehead in receiver packages.

[David]

Excellent post, Sammy. Some notes:

When I think of Ronald Kent Jr., yes, he had some struggles in his first year (e.g., getting trucked by Ouellette in the West Semi and was beaten 1-on-1 at times). But I do think he has a strong upside. Not comparing them, but we saw Dante Marsh struggle at halfback in his first year as a Lion due to the challenges of adjusting to field size, motion, waggle, extra man etc. On the "Lions On Tap" Jalon Edwards-Cooper edition, Moj was saying that Garry Peters is a big, big fan of Kent Jr.'s game. Jalon was complimentary of his footwork and moves as well. (starts at 17:10, ends at 17:56). Can't wait to see Beaulieu in Year 2!

As for Covington, he started slowly and I was concerned that we weren't getting value. Farhan assured me on X that it was a club-friendly contract. Ironically, his game really picked up after that.

As for our Olinemen, Broxton, our best one, is under contract for 2025. I would sign Schleuger (really liked his game at left guard). Woodruff should improve with a year under his belt. I would be okay of moving on from Couture and playing Packer at centre (perhaps only re-sign Couture at a very club-friendly price). I would not re-sign Chungh. Too many protection issues. I would look to upgrade at right tackle too. Perkins had some good games, but when he was bad, he was terrible. I think of games against the Argos, Bombers, Riders.

As for Specials, I'd really like to see more roster flexibility with a Global punter/kick-off specialist (and find a new holder for Whtye). I like Williams' reliability but I would still be looking to sign a US FA returner who is more in the Alford, Letcher mold who is a constant threat to break one for a TD. I rarely got that "thrill" or dopamine rush when Terry Williams caught the ball in 2024. It was a safe 11 / 23 yards and...splat.


DH

[Toppy Vann]

After Neil McEvoy's comments that the team that was on the field vs Sask in the playoff won't be back next year it makes you wonder where they want to go. It was a bit of a too bold statement for a co-GM when his co-GM is also the Head Coach. At the same time it made me wonder if that meant the HC was on thin ice.

I'm not advocating for GMs or coaches or players being tossed aside but there must be significant improvements in all facets of this organization from owner on down if next season is to have a better outcome than this one.

In a nutshell, the BC Lions if to be successful need significant improvements in all these key strategic priorities:

> talent recruiting and selection (not just other team's FA)

> Head coaching- in getting the identity, philosophy, tone and culture right. Has to be more inspirational and not just "we win or we lose."
If you identity is big plays like it seems it is now. Don't plan on being at a home playoff or WF next season>

It's not rocket science. Look at the Bombers, Als.

[B.C.FAN]

Carl Meyer has been released along with all other players on the practice roster at the end of the season so he is free to sign elsewhere, but I'd love to see him re-signed as punter, kickoff specialist and backup FG kicker who could handle attempts of more than 50 yards. That would free up a designated American position for use on defence or on offence, most likely at receiver or running back. Flintoft has been a great teammate and reliable FG holder but his punting and kickoff averages were in the middle of the pack among CFL kickers.

[SammyGreene]

This season we saw Sayles, Baron & Mauger become salary cap casualties. With Rourke’s deal kicking in and cap space need to potentially re-sign McInnis & maybe Betts too there will certainly be some 2025 casualties.

I’m guessing Alexander Hollins is at the top of the list. Started out strong then faded badly with too many drops and playing too soft on contested throws. They gave him a huge pay raise ($220,000+) off his rookie deal & I could see McInnis asking for the same amount, especially as a national.

Keon Hatcher should get the benefit of the doubt as he came back from a serious injury early. But another big contract that could be a training camp casualty like Sayles if he hasn’t returned to his earlier form.

If they re-sign McInnis, there is no way they have room for 4 $200,000-plus receivers & Rourke & potentially Betts’ contracts might mean there is only room for 2.

[maxlion]

Williams and Flintoft have the same problems: both are under performing specialists with the wrong passports. I can’t see why the team would consider keeping either.

Hollis is an odd case. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a player fall off the cliff as quickly as he did. It was like he woke up one day and forgot how to play football. Hard to bring him back at his price tag.

TJ Lee will be another tough decision. He is at the stage of his career where he will likely be facing a lesser role and related pay cut. Is he willing to take less to stay?

On o line, will need to be careful to separate the wheat from the chaff. And how feasible is it to rebuild in one year? Maybe need to do more incremental change despite fans wanting more drastic change.

[Hambone]

On o line, will need to be careful to separate the wheat from the chaff. And how feasible is it to rebuild in one year? Maybe need to do more incremental change despite fans wanting more drastic change.

I was just going through the lists of potential FA OL from the 3D articles. Let's just say it's very underwhelming for any team thinking of overhauling their own OL. A full 1/3 of the 32 names are either current Lions or former Lions. Nobody really stands out as an ungrade over what BC has save for maybe somebody like Sean McEwen or maybe Zack Pelehos if they can be lured away from their home towns. Pelehos isn't born and raised in Ottawa but rather was raised in Gananoque before playing college for the Gee Gees and his CFL career to date with the REDBLACKS.

LIONS & EX-LIONS
TEAM NAME A/N AGE COMMENTS
BCL Sukh Chungh N 32
BCL Michael Couture N 30
BCL David Knevel N 30
BCL Andrew Peirson N 29
BCL Kent Perkins A 29
BCL Chris Schleuger A 29
EDM David Foucault N 35
EDM Hunter Steward N 32
HAM Joel Figueroa A 35
SSK Peter Godber N 30
SSK Noah Zerr N 26

OVER THE HILL GANG
TEAM NAME A/N AGE COMMENTS
MTL Kristian Matte N 39 Should retire
SSK Philip Blake N 38 Should retire

AMERICANS
TEAM NAME A/N AGE COMMENTS
CGY D'Antne Demery A 27 LT - Played and started 24 games last 2 years
EDM Martez Ivey A 29 LT - 2024 West All-Star
OTT Dino Boyd A 28 LT - solid
OTT Drake Centers A 24 Joined OTT in 2023 - 4 career GP
SSK Trevon Tate A 28 Journeyman depth - SSK was 5th team in 5 years

NATIONALS
TEAM NAME A/N AGE COMMENTS
CGY Sean McEwen N 31 C - multiple time All-CFL - Born, raised and played CIS in CGY
CGY Kyle Saxelid N 29 3rd Team - 15GP PLAYED SINCE 2021
CGY Zack Williams N 27 LG, RG - 63 GP, 60 Starts
EDM Tomas Jack-Kurdyla N 28 RG - INJURED FINAL 15 GAMES
EDM Shane Richards N 29 Journeyman depth
EDM Jakub Szott N 26 Journeyman depth - EDM is 4th team
HAM David Beard N 31 C - 2024 All-East & All-CFL (both 1sts)
HAM Evan Johnson N 30 Journeyman depth - 10 GP in 24, 0 starts.
MTL Philippe Gagnon N 32 G - Quebec guy
OTT Dariusz Bladek N 30 RG - 18 starts in 2024 after 0 GP in 2023
OTT Cyrille Hogan-Saindon N 27 C - spent half of 2024 injured
OTT Zack Pelehos N 25 SE Ontario guy. Played college in Ottawa
OTT Jacob Ruby N 31 LT, RT - 17 GP, 6 starts in 2024
SSK Ryan Sceviour N 29 8 GP, 6 Starts in 2024

[don corleone]

Nice breakdown Hambone.

Some will stay, others will go. We already know it is going to be tough to fit everyone in. That said, other teams will play a role. Adding will be tough.

If you really didn't like Mike Couture, David Beard is probably the #1 guy available. Saw a comment recently speculating it was his involvement with the CFLPA that led to him being traded from Edmonton.

I like Kent Perkins. What I think would help is a sixth O lineman at times. It's something Winnipeg has done quite a bit recently so maybe Buck brings that with him. Martez Ivey is being touted as best available tackle.

Not sure who gets priority between Pierson, Schleuger and Knevel with plenty others around the league that fit the journeyman tag. Hunter Stewart is one.

Receivers and DB's will be interesting. VA describing himself as a top flight recruiter makes me wonder about Stanback and McInnis. Not sure if the recent RB signings are just a coincidence.

Betts will likely get offers in the Orimolade / Ceresna range of $200,000 + and is probably worth it.

Curious what others would do?

[SammyGreene]

Great work Hambone.

When Rourke’s contract was brought up Rigmaiden said they would be quieter in the FA market compared recent years and need to lean more on their recruiting and players on entry level deals.

Rugumba, Greene and Rene are done their entry level deals, leaving only Beaulieu, Eberhardt & Kent Jr for 2025. They need to take advantage of Tyler Packer’s 2024 development at centre or guard to save $$$. And 6th overall 2024 pick Una is hopefully ready for at least a regular spot on the roster for Knevel/Pierson.

Lions will never use the word “re-build” but a new head coach, younger starting QB & no Grey Cup hosting pressure could also pave the way for more younger and cheaper starters.

[Hambone]

Great work Hambone.

When Rourke’s contract was brought up Rigmaiden said they would be quieter in the FA market compared recent years and need to lean more on their recruiting and players on entry level deals.

Rugumba, Greene and Rene are done their entry level deals, leaving only Beaulieu, Eberhardt & Kent Jr for 2025. They need to take advantage of Tyler Packer’s 2024 development at centre or guard to save $$$. And 6th overall 2024 pick Una is hopefully ready for at least a regular spot on the roster for Knevel/Pierson.

Lions will never use the word “re-build” but a new head coach, younger starting QB & no Grey Cup hosting pressure could also pave the way for more younger and cheaper starters.

None of the guys you listed that are pending FAs will move the SMS needle much, especially the DB types. 15th highest DB salary in 2024 was $122K. These guys may have been up to $82.5K base salary. I don't think any will be cracking $100K on their next deals. $15K raise is likely the most any will get.

[don corleone]

Great work Hambone.

When Rourke’s contract was brought up Rigmaiden said they would be quieter in the FA market compared recent years and need to lean more on their recruiting and players on entry level deals.

Rugumba, Greene and Rene are done their entry level deals, leaving only Beaulieu, Eberhardt & Kent Jr for 2025. They need to take advantage of Tyler Packer’s 2024 development at centre or guard to save $$$. And 6th overall 2024 pick Una is hopefully ready for at least a regular spot on the roster for Knevel/Pierson.

Lions will never use the word “re-build” but a new head coach, younger starting QB & no Grey Cup hosting pressure could also pave the way for more younger and cheaper starters.

Looking at who is left rather than the free agents.

Broxton, Woodruff, Packer, and Una would all be on their first contracts.

[Hambone]

Broxton was not on his first contract. He just completed his 4th season with BC. He was originally signed in May of 2021. I think it was during the 2023 season that he signed an extension that carried him thru 2025.

Packer is also no longer on his first deal. Originally drafted in 2021 he signed his first deal then but returned to school. Even though he was in school that burnt up the first year of his mandatory 3 year first contract. Per his bio on the team website he signed an extension at the end of the 2023 season.

Woodruff and Una would be heading into the 2nd years of their deals. Una would be on a 3 year deal while Woodruff might be on his final year. Americans are only required to sign a minimum 1+1 contract for their entry contracts.

[Toppy Vann]

Buck in that first presser mentioned Betts and McInnis as he sorta tried to not get into roster stuff but did say those two names.

The funniest moment in that presser was a question about how he'll be with media citing Mike O'Shea. Buck wryly to much laughter: "We'll see."

Coaches often say we want balance in our offense but Buck Pierce is an OC whose RB was the CFL's MOP last year and he's been known to use a lot of different folks out of the backfield and that's why I'm hoping to see that kind of football here. Buck built on Lapo's offense with his creativity and play calliing.

For those of us who ever played football we want to passing and running and some creativity.

If there is balance in the offense my view is this takes pressure off your offensive line as you're not as predictable as BC has been for years now. The most physical OL's are those who line up and plow over what's in front of them and these gets fired and get a personality. BC has had none of that for some years. Think Jimenez and Murphy.

Offensive linemen who can play on the line in the CFL aren't like a Running Back who just needs to learn new plays and protections so if you can't find or can't pay CFL FA's the big bucks (no pun intended):

a) balance the offense so it's not as predictable like Buck's offense in the 'Peg (that was kind of missing in the GC game).
This alone should fire up your OLinemen. Use more blocking protection, yet like others run or pass from that.

b) develop your own while you work with what you got.

c) practice differently than the Rick Campbell/Maksymic era with more focus on coordinated practices to get the OL on the same page with all others. In the Wally era when Buck first played here there was far more emphasis on that than I've seen since returning from Hong Kong in 2015.
The OL just seem to be a distinct entity with the rest of the offense.

d) get bigger and more physical at REC but with schemes that doesn't need to matter as much as long as the REC'rs stick their noses in.


On the DEF side, there has to a tone setter in the DBs who aren't dirty but play like the Derek Sankey type.
Better tacklers. Football needs to get back to wrapping them out type players as RBs have field days with these high missed tackling.
Even at this end of season presser Macioca mention Sankey and Shawn Lemon (the latter he added was a problem getting over his suspension). In context none of this was made as excuses.

[don corleone]

Broxton was not on his first contract. He just completed his 4th season with BC. He was originally signed in May of 2021. I think it was during the 2023 season that he signed an extension that carried him thru 2025.

Packer is also no longer on his first deal. Originally drafted in 2021 he signed his first deal then but returned to school. Even though he was in school that burnt up the first year of his mandatory 3 year first contract. Per his bio on the team website he signed an extension at the end of the 2023 season.

Woodruff and Una would be heading into the 2nd years of their deals. Una would be on a 3 year deal while Woodruff might be on his final year. Americans are only required to sign a minimum 1+1 contract for their entry contracts.

Obviously I know nothing and will have to wait for the news.