With the CFL’s negotiation window to open on February 4, John Hodge is reporting that Jackson Jeffcoat wants to check his stock price.

Fans should remember that the CFL’s negotiation window is not free agency. Rather, it can be described as ‘legal tapering.’ Created in 2020 it allows players to check what their value might be before they decide whether or not to go to free agency.

So it is not impossible that Jeffcoat would return to the Bombers, but at age 33 I am sure making the most money he can is part of the equation.

As for Kolankowski, well he just signed a new 2 year deal. While this may not be the flashiest signing, he is super integral to keeping Zach Collaros upright and ‘clean.’ These 2 year deals are very important as Winnipeg will be hosting the 2025 Grey Cup and will want a strong contingent of players with continuity before the 2025 season begins.

Kolankowski earned his spot just like many players do, being the ‘next man up.’ Called into duty when Couture was injured in 2022, Kolankowski played all 18 games in 2023 including the playoff and Grey Cup game.

The Kolankowski signing and the conversation with Jeffcoat – where he indicated that he wanted to test the waters – further adds to the speculation that the Bombers are moving forward without knowing where Oliveira and Schoen are at. And really, you simply cannot blame the Bombers. With every day that ticks away – no matter how elite Oliveira and Schoen are – the Bombers just have to move forward.

Who re-signs next with the Bombers is anyone’s guess. So put your guess in the comments section wherever you are reading this.

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