**Breaking News: Winnipeg Blue Bombers Announce Key Deals Ahead of 2024 CFL Season**
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers, one of the most successful franchises in the Canadian Football League (CFL) over the past few seasons, have made a series of announcements today regarding key roster moves that will shape the team’s outlook for the 2024 season. In a bid to continue their championship contention window, the Blue Bombers have added depth, made strategic re-signings, and bolstered their roster through a series of critical trades and signings. These moves come on the heels of a 2023 season where the team fell short of a Grey Cup appearance but remains one of the top contenders in the CFL.
Here’s a breakdown of the key moves announced today and how they could impact the team heading into the new season.
### **1. Re-Signing of Quarterback Zach Collaros: A Commitment to Stability**
The most significant announcement of the day comes with the re-signing of **Zach Collaros**, the veteran quarterback and leader of the Blue Bombers’ offense. Collaros has been the cornerstone of Winnipeg’s success over the last few seasons, leading the team to back-to-back Grey Cup victories in 2019 and 2021, and guiding them to the playoffs in 2023. At 35 years old, Collaros continues to be one of the most efficient and reliable quarterbacks in the CFL.
The new deal is reportedly a two-year contract extension that will keep him in Winnipeg through 2025. Collaros’ leadership, poise under pressure, and ability to make plays in crucial moments have been integral to the team’s success. Last season, he passed for over 4,000 yards, threw 30 touchdowns, and demonstrated why he remains one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the league, despite being in the later stages of his career.
With Collaros now locked in for the next two years, the Blue Bombers can continue to build around their star quarterback, ensuring continuity at the most important position on the field. Head coach **Mike O’Shea** and offensive coordinator **Buck Pierce** can now focus on fine-tuning the offense and surrounding Collaros with even more talent, as the quarterback has consistently proven he can lead the team deep into the postseason.
### **2. Trade Acquisition of Defensive Back Jamal Parker**
In a move that will undoubtedly strengthen Winnipeg’s defense, the Blue Bombers have completed a trade with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats to acquire **Jamal Parker**, a dynamic and versatile defensive back. Parker, who has been a standout performer in the CFL over the past few seasons, brings athleticism and experience to the secondary, filling a need for the Blue Bombers after a few departures in the offseason.
Parker, 27, is known for his speed, coverage skills, and ball-hawking ability. He has consistently ranked among the league’s leaders in interceptions and pass breakups over the last three seasons. Last year, Parker recorded 3 interceptions and 15 pass deflections, showcasing his ability to shut down opposing receivers. His addition should help bolster a Winnipeg secondary that already features playmakers like **Brandon Alexander** and **Wojtek Gregorczyk**.
By acquiring Parker, the Blue Bombers gain another key piece to an already solid defense, and his ability to make plays on the ball will help create turnovers, which is crucial for a team looking to regain Grey Cup glory in 2024. The trade is seen as a commitment to maintaining one of the best defensive units in the CFL, keeping the team’s championship window open for years to come.
### **3. Re-Signing of Running Back Brady Oliveira**
Running back **Brady Oliveira**, who has been one of the most reliable and hard-nosed runners in the CFL over the past few seasons, has re-signed with the Blue Bombers on a multi-year deal. Oliveira, a Winnipeg native, has become an integral part of the team’s offensive identity, offering both power and speed as the primary ball carrier.
Oliveira has been a workhorse for the Blue Bombers, and his re-signing is a major victory for Winnipeg as they look to continue their run-first offensive approach. In 2023, Oliveira rushed for over 1,200 yards and scored 10 touchdowns, playing a critical role in Winnipeg’s offensive success. He also added another dimension in the passing game, with 35 receptions for 400 yards and 2 touchdowns.
The re-signing of Oliveira solidifies the Blue Bombers’ ground game and keeps a fan-favorite player in the fold for the long term. Oliveira’s ability to grind out tough yards, control the clock, and provide balance to the offense is invaluable, especially with Collaros under center. His familiarity with the team, as well as his leadership in the locker room, make this deal even more important for the Blue Bombers as they prepare for another run at the Grey Cup.
### **4. Signing of Offensive Lineman Curtis Dunlap Jr.**
The Blue Bombers have also added depth to their offensive line with the signing of **Curtis Dunlap Jr.**, a towering 6’7″, 330-pound offensive lineman who comes to Winnipeg after an impressive collegiate career. Dunlap Jr., who played for the University of Minnesota, has drawn attention for his size, power, and ability to control the line of scrimmage.
While Dunlap Jr. is a relatively untested commodity at the CFL level, his signing signals a desire to strengthen Winnipeg’s offensive line and provide protection for Collaros. A solid offensive line is critical for any team that hopes to compete at a high level, and the Blue Bombers’ offensive line has been one of the league’s best in recent years. Dunlap Jr. will provide competition for starting spots, adding depth and flexibility to the front five. His presence could allow the Bombers to protect Collaros more effectively, especially with a potential for increased pressure from opposing defenses in 2024.
### **5. Release of Receiver Darvin Adams**
In a somewhat surprising move, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers have also announced the release of veteran receiver **Darvin Adams**, a player who had been with the team since 2016 and played a key role in their two most recent Grey Cup wins. Adams, a 6’1″ wideout, has been a consistent target for Collaros, contributing with over 5,000 career receiving yards and 40 touchdowns. However, with the emergence of younger talent at receiver, including **Rasheed Bailey** and **Nic Demski**, the Bombers appear to be making a strategic move to move forward with a younger, faster receiving corps.
While Adams was a fan favorite and a reliable target for the Bombers, his departure signals a shift in the team’s priorities—getting faster and more explosive at the receiver position. His release, while emotional for many long-time Bombers fans, is likely a decision made in the interest of long-term roster flexibility and youth development. Winnipeg is known for cultivating young talent, and with the receiving corps already stacked with up-and-coming players, Adams’ departure frees up cap space for other roster moves.
### **6. Trade of Linebacker Adam Bighill**
In another noteworthy move, the Blue Bombers have traded linebacker **Adam Bighill** to the Calgary Stampeders in exchange for a package of draft picks. Bighill, who has been a stalwart on Winnipeg’s defense for several years and a key part of their two Grey Cup wins, was an emotional leader and a key tackler in the middle of the field. However, at 34 years old, the Bombers have decided to move on from Bighill in favor of developing younger talent at the linebacker position.
While Bighill’s departure will undoubtedly be felt on the field, the team’s decision to trade him reflects their long-term vision of maintaining financial flexibility and continuing to build with younger players. The draft picks acquired in the deal will likely be used to address other areas of need, such as defensive depth and special teams.
### **Conclusion: Blue Bombers Poised for Another Grey Cup Push**
With these key announcements, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers have clearly made a concerted effort to bolster their roster for the 2024 CFL season. The re-signing of key veterans like Zach Collaros and Brady Oliveira, combined with strategic acquisitions like Jamal Parker and the signing of Curtis Dunlap Jr., shows that the team is committed to maintaining its championship-caliber status. As they prepare for the new season, the Bombers have solidified their positions in both the offensive and defensive units, while also making the tough decisions to move on from some fan favorites to build for the future.
With a deep roster, a successful track record, and a commitment to both short-term success and long-term stability, the Blue Bombers look poised to be a formidable force in the CFL in 2024, and the moves announced today only reinforce that belief. The team will be one to watch as they pursue yet another Grey Cup victory in what promises to be a thrilling season.