As preseason ends, the Blue Bombers face critical roster decisions. Tonight’s clash vs Roughriders will decide futures.
The long grind of CFL training camp is nearly over for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. With one last preseason game on the horizon — a clash against the Saskatchewan Roughriders in Regina — players know tonight is their final chance to make a lasting impression. For some, it could be the beginning of a dream season. For others, the end of the road.
The Final Test Before Cuts
After wrapping up their final practice on Wednesday, the Blue Bombers hit the road for their last preseason showdown. With final cuts due Saturday by 10 p.m., tonight’s game is a defining moment.
“The expectations are always there, and they should always be high,” said Blue Bombers head coach Mike O’Shea. “This game is just as important in the evaluation process.”
O’Shea made it clear: effort and execution will separate those who stay from those who go. “It’s a football game. I want them to go out run around as hard as they can and spend all their energy, hit as hard as they can, play good special teams and do everything they can to earn a spot.”
Who’s In and Who’s Out?
The Blue Bombers are dressing 73 players tonight. Notable absentees include Willie Jefferson, James Vaughters, and Brady Oliveira. For the Riders, quarterback Trevor Harris and running back A.J. Ouellette are among the top names sitting out.
Many of the players released Saturday could find spots on injured lists or practice rosters. With limited slots — only 45 active players, including 21 Canadians and one Global player — every snap tonight matters.
Receiver Showdown: A Packed House
The most hotly contested positional battle? Wide receiver.
It’s clear Nic Demski, Dalton Schoen and Kevens Clercius are locked in as starters. But beyond that, the competition is fierce. Veterans like Dillon Mitchell, Reggie White Jr., and Jerreth Sterns are facing strong pushes from emerging names including Myron Mitchell, Kody Case, Keric Wheatfall, and 2025 draft pick Joey Corcoran.
This is a crowded field, and only a handful will make the cut.
Battles Beyond the End Zone
Other key competitions remain unresolved — including starting roles at left guard, right tackle, kick returner, safety, and cornerback.
Micah Vanterpool and Kendall Randolph are taking the lead at left guard and right tackle, respectively. With Peyton Logan sidelined, return duties have been shared between multiple hopefuls including Wallis, Cobb, and Harris. Meanwhile, Marquise Bridges and Trey Vaval start at corner, with others expected to rotate in.
O’Shea emphasized objectivity in the final evaluations:
“You’ve got to let them play and let them be great.”
Comebacks to Cheer
Tonight marks a welcome return for Dalton Schoen, Cam Lawson, Jamal Parker Jr., and Chris Streveler — all bouncing back from serious knee injuries.
“I just want to end camp on a high note,” said quarterback Chris Streveler. “Last weekend was a huge step for me… This week is about continuing to go out, manage the offence, get guys lined up and put the ball in our playmakers’ hands.”
Hometown Heroes in the Spotlight
For Saskatchewan natives Ethan Vibert and Lane Novak — both 2025 draft picks — tonight’s game is especially meaningful. Vibert, an offensive lineman from Regina, expects to see familiar faces in the stands.
“I’ll have a bunch of friends and family there and it will be fun to see them in the stands, even if some of them will be wearing the wrong colours,” he said with a grin.
As the regular season looms, tonight’s match isn’t just a warm-up — it’s a proving ground.
Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for full post-game coverage, player cuts, and more exclusive CFL updates. Your game day source, every time.
