Argos trade for Khalif Mitchell

[Mulder]

http://argonauts.ca/article/argos-acquire-all-star-dt-khalif-mitchell




TORONTO - The Toronto Argonauts Football Club is pleased to announce that it has acquired all-star import DT Khalif Mitchell from the BC Lions in exchange for import DE Adrian Awasom as well as the rights to a negotiation list player.

Commented Argonauts General Manager, Jim Barker, “Khalif has shown the ability to be a dominant interior defensive lineman in the CFL. He has been a part of a Grey Cup championship team and understands the level of commitment needed to again be a champion. We’re excited to have him join our Club.”

Mitchell has spent the past three seasons with the Lions after joining the league in September of 2010 as a free agent. During the 2011 campaign, he gained notoriety as being one of the CFL’s most feared pass rushers, leading to him being named a Western Division and CFL All-Star at his position. The 6-foot, 5-inch, 315 pound native of Virginia Beach, VA had 33 tackles and six (6) sacks in his all-star season, and comes to the Boatmen with 54 tackles and eight (8) sacks in 34 career CFL games.

Prior to his stint with the Lions, Mitchell spent two seasons on the practice roster of the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers.


That's a quick way to rebuild the defensive line!

[bluto]

Maybe the one player in the league who was/is a like-for-like replacement for Armand Armstead. This is a sensational trade. Way to go Barks!

Welcome to Hogtown Khalif!

245

[Will]

I thought here goes our 1st rounder for sure. The D-line was an area of need and Barker does a solid job of addressing that need.

[AaronInToronto]

I'm very happy with this. He's solid and fleet-footed. Nice combo.

[AngeloV]

Hopefully his head case days are behind him. He really crossed the line a couple of times last year, but with his talent level, I too would be willing to gamble on him.

[ArgoGabe22]

Hopefully Milanovich can control him. Imagine if we still had Belli, we would have to be the most fined team in history (just joking). Makes you wonder how good Adrian Awasom may have been. We shall wait and see

[Mulder]

Hopefully his head case days are behind him. He really crossed the line a couple of times last year, but with his talent level, I too would be willing to gamble on him.

I hope so too, Judging by a former players comment. Maybe not


<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p>Good riddance!!!!</p>&mdash; Andrew Harris (@andrewharris33) <a href="https://twitter.com/andrewharris33/status/319184128996171778">April 2, 2013</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[paulwoods13]

He's a great talent, hope his head is on straight. I was looking forward to seeing what Awasom could do, but better to have a proven all-star than an unproven prospect.

[bluto]

Mitchell is younger and an established CFL all-star (warts and all). Awasom is a promising prospect but is older and no guarantee to even make the team in BC (who have about 6 or 7 other D-Linemen on roster). i'd really like to know who the Neg-List player is... i have a feeling it's a QB that Wally likes... wonder if/when we'll find out.

[294life]

Hopefully his head case days are behind him. He really crossed the line a couple of times last year.

crossed it with his hand over his chest and his head he did. lol.

Ed Philion will love him. Just his style.

[Wobbler]

The deal seems suspiciously good. It must have been an very good neg list player.

[ArgoGabe22]

The deal seems suspiciously good. It must have been an very good neg list player.

Or they were fed up with him and planned on releasing him. Maybe the neg list player is Geno Smith. Probably not as a good neg list player is one with a good chance of signing. We could have Cam Newton, Russell Wilson and Colin Kaepernick all in the league if they didn't all turn into franchise QBs.

[Bleeds Double Blue]

More like BC was fed up with him. They were not too pleased with his antics last year.

[ArgoRavi]

As mentioned by others, Mitchell will be an excellent addition as long as he has his head on straight. I suspect that 1argoholic will be fuming over this move as he was as critical as anyone on here of Mitchell last year IIRC.

[bluto]

crossed it with his hand over his chest and his head he did. lol.

Ed Philion will love him. Just his style.

http://i1071.photobucket.com/albums/u515/zaskarclf/DataLaughing_gif.gif

i'd forgotten about our new D-Line coach...

[doubleblue]

I'm sure the Argo O-Line is happy they don't have to line up against him in earnest.

I hope Mr. Cohen has approved the trade between the Braley Boys. lol

[Argo57]

Great move!!!
Jones and the D Coaches will get the best out of Mitchell
Argos at their best with a nasty edge, way to go Barker!

[Wobbler]

Paige-Moss / Huntley / Mitchell / Lee
Lyle Horsley Robinson

Isaac / McCune / Ball
K Jones Beckwith

Horne / Teague / Younger / Carter/ Watkins
Dixon / Black
Hood

[matchuk]

great signing...hopefully hes kept in line here in toronto, but definately a great trade

[argotom]

He is a great talent, however the usual "but" is his excess baggage.

[paulwoods13]

Paige-Moss / Huntley / Mitchell / Lee
Lyle Horsley Robinson

Isaac / McCune / Ball
K Jones Beckwith

Horne / Teague / Younger / Carter/ Watkins
Dixon / Black
Hood

Interesting, but I think Pottinger and Yurichuk are higher on the depth chart than Jones (who wasn't dressing by the end of last season). And Reid wil definitely dress at DT.

[Midnight Blue]

Great move. Khalif Mitchell will be just fine here.


First, he will get the Mr. Michael "Pinball" Clemons speech/welcome:


Pinball : "Hi Khalif, welcome to the Argos."

Khalif : "Hi."


Pinball : "Ok, drop down and give me 100 push-ups."

Khalif : "Yes, Sir." (Does 100 push-ups.)


Pinball : "Ok, here's why you have to get your act together."
(30 minute speech/explanation/Robert Baker speech/pep-talk.)

Pinball : "Got it?"

Khalif : "Yes Sir !"


Pinball : "Good, now drop down and give me 100 more push-ups. And if you don't want to go through this again, keep your act together."

Khalif : "Yes, Sir !"



Piece of cake.



Ka' Pla !

[bluto]

Interesting, but I think Pottinger and Yurichuk are higher on the depth chart than Jones (who wasn't dressing by the end of last season). And Reid wil definitely dress at DT.

looks like our defence will be NI-by-committee

[argolio]

Great trade based on football talent. He can be a big difference-maker, as was shown when he became a starter part way through 2011 with the Lions.

Let's just hope he keeps the garbage to a minimum.

[ArgoRavi]

This Vancouver Sun article indicates that the neg list player is a defensive back: http://www.vancouversun.com/sports/football/lions/Lions+trade+Khalif+Mitchell+Toronto+Argonauts/8184825/story.html

[1argoholic]

I HATED this clown last year. Trying to rip an Edmonton players arm off and not giving a crap that he did so was a serious issue. He also had comments that offended many in Vancouver. I believe it was about a minority group of people that has deep roots in Vancouver.
I don't like this move. BC was just thrilled to get something for this head case. I just hope he can get his head out of his you know what? If he can grow up it might work out but he needs to be schooled by Pinball.

[jerrym]

Living in Metro Vancouver, when I saw this thread, I immediately started imagining what the Vancouver Sun article about the trade would say, considering what it wrote about Mitchell last year. Despite Mitchell's talent, I was not surprised that his trade price was so low, nor was I surprised when the Sun article referred to by ArgoRavi started with
"In a city that elected a hot-tempered, bird-flipping, bullheaded mayor in Rob Ford, Toronto should be primed and ready to accept the antics of another free-spirited individual in Khalif Mitchell."
It may work out over the season, but if it does't at least Barker did not pay a high price in terms of recognized talent and we traded from an area of relative strength (defensive back) and obtained something for which we have the greatest need (defensive lineman). Like many others have he could be a big bonus [but(t)] ...

[Wobbler]

Interesting, but I think Pottinger and Yurichuk are higher on the depth chart than Jones (who wasn't dressing by the end of last season). And Reid wil definitely dress at DT.
Yurichuk should definitely be on my chart instead of Jones, who might not even make the team this year.

[1argoholic]

TOOL!!!! http://www.theprovince.com/sports/Lions+trade+Khalif+Mitchell+Argos+without+remorse/8184785/story.html

This guy hasn't changed at all. I'll be very surprised if he sticks with us.

[ArgoRavi]

TOOL!!!! http://www.theprovince.com/sports/Lions+trade+Khalif+Mitchell+Argos+without+remorse/8184785/story.html

This guy hasn't changed at all. I'll be very surprised if he sticks with us.

I am sure that he will settle down after a day or two. Hopefully Milanovich and Chris Jones can get this guy under control.

[Midnight Blue]

He'll stick. I still miss Arland Bruce. If a player has any, um, "issues", they are generally resolved when he moves to a new team. Or else he is quietly forgotten. By the way, Toronto has a tradition of giving players a second chance. Bloody Socialists (just kidding). Also, (by the way, by the way), we could sure use a hard-nosed receiver like Robert Baker. Any team could.



Ka' Pla !

[bluto]

http://www.theprovince.com/sports/football/bc-lions/Lions+trade+Khalif+Mitchell+Argos+without+remorse/8184785/story.html

(http://www.theprovince.com/sports/football/bc-lions/Lions+trade+Khalif+Mitchell+Argos+without+remorse/8184785/story.html)he sounds pissed. i like it. as long as the flags and fines are kept to a minimum...


“I told Wally in his face that if he ever traded me you might as well get a new offensive line, because I’m going to go to a team that’s going to kill you,” Mitchell said after discussing the deal Tuesday with coach Mike Benevides.


So too does Mitchell, only now it’ll be against a team that he thought had warmed to him, some of whom had been workout partners in the Lower Mainland during the off-season.

He ended last season still feeling misunderstood. He’ll start next season mad, if not a tad confused about how the trade process works.

“I just don’t want to go nowhere I don’t get to show B.C. what they lost,” he said.

of course, crazy has its downside too... hopefully Pinball can bring him around.


“I don’t want to burn a bridge [in Toronto], but I’m trying to figure things out and ask for a release,” said Mitchell, who does not have an agent. “What gives [the Lions]the right [to make a trade]? What’s the purpose of calling it an option year? Just call it a we-own-you year. I’m trying to benefit so I can go and whip [B.C.’s] ass next year. If B.C. doesn’t want me, B.C. should just release me.“I called Wally twice last week and he never returned [the calls]. We got the same owner [as Toronto]; was this some little under-the-table type thing? There’s a whole bunch of questions I got to ask

[OV Argo]

looks like our defence will be NI-by-committee

I commented before here on that scenario: Jones used it with a Stamps D; subbing in and out different NIs to make the one NI needed to make your 7th NI "starter", rather than one Canadian playing a regular spot. Plenty of candidates - Reid or maybe Laing at DT, Lee or a draft pick DE; Yurichuck or Pottinger at MLB; Matt Black in the D-backfield.

Of course with real TC competiton, several of the above guys could emerge as starters and there would be no dreaded "ratio problem" (could easily be 6 or 7 NIs already starting on O?); more likely, IMO, it will be 7 only need apply thinking though, and at least one will have to play on D?

[gilthethrill]

I must admit that out all the offseason acquistions, Awasome was the guy I was most interested in. He had his lone off the field problem during Super Bowl week when he was on the Giants IR, but has been a model citizen ever since.

Mitchell, if he does not workout (I have my doubts at this point that he will), did not cost the team a starter. High reward for a small risk I suppose.

[Will]

So wait...Mitchell basically says in the article he's going to ask the Argonauts for a release?


“I don’t want to burn a bridge [in Toronto], but I’m trying to figure things out and ask for a release,” said Mitchell, who does not have an agent.

This quote seems to suggest that.

[bluto]

So wait...Mitchell basically says in the article he's going to ask the Argonauts for a release?

“I don’t want to burn a bridge [in Toronto], but I’m trying to figure things out and ask for a release,” said Mitchell, who does not have an agent.

This quote seems to suggest that.

yeah... but in the other two statements he wants to be able to show BC what they lost and that he is going to wreck their O-Line as his new team kills them.

his emotions were a bit all over the place in the article, but that is understandable considering he didn't expect to be dealt... also it's what we'd expect from a guy with his reputation for playing on the edge with a lot of emotional intensity.

give Pinball and the Fam a day or two to bring him around. there's just too much ability there not to try to get this guy to work with the team.

[294life]

http://i1071.photobucket.com/albums/u515/zaskarclf/DataLaughing_gif.gif

i'd forgotten about our new D-Line coach...

a match made in heaven to say the least.

so i guess he can keep his number 96 assuming he doesn't want Foley's 95.

[ArgoRavi]

yeah... but in the other two statements he wants to be able to show BC what they lost and that he is going to wreck their O-Line as his new team kills them.

his emotions were a bit all over the place in the article, but that is understandable considering he didn't expect to be dealt... also it's what we'd expect from a guy with his reputation for playing on the edge with a lot of emotional intensity.

give Pinball and the Fam a day or two to bring him around. there's just too much ability there not to try to get this guy to work with the team.

Yeah, I think that he was disappointed not to be traded to another western team so that he could face the Lions three or four times during the season but I would be surprised if he doesn't come around to the idea of being an Argo.

[paulwoods13]

So wait...Mitchell basically says in the article he's going to ask the Argonauts for a release?



This quote seems to suggest that.


Ask away, buddy. Short answer: No can do.

[Wobbler]

Despite my "projected" defensive depth chart above, I'd prefer not to hand a starting job to Mitchell. I think it will work out best for everyone if he has to outperform a couple of guys to make the team.

Also, no agent? Really? Self-representation is for people who understand the terms of their own contact.

[KCargosfan]

Despite my "projected" defensive depth chart above, I'd prefer not to hand a starting job to Mitchell. I think it will work out best for everyone if he has to outperform a couple of guys to make the team.


He'll likely be given one, and he's earned it by his performance the past 2 1/2 years. Unless he comes in a fat slob that is completely out of shape, he'll be starting.

Also, our available cap room just got sharply less as I believe his last contract pays him around $140K a year.

[1argoholic]

I don't like this guy and think he'll be way more trouble than he's worth. He doesn't act or sound like he has any sort of a brain in his head. Wally got something for a guy he most likely would have cut lose. I'm not happy at all about this guy wearing double blue.

[ArgoRavi]

Despite my "projected" defensive depth chart above, I'd prefer not to hand a starting job to Mitchell. I think it will work out best for everyone if he has to outperform a couple of guys to make the team.

Also, no agent? Really? Self-representation is for people who understand the terms of their own contact.

He dumped his agent or maybe his agent dumped him after Mitchell turned down an NFL contract to re-sign with the Lions last year. IIRC, that NFL deal wasn't all that bad and had a decent signing bonus which indicated that the team (Miami?) was serious about giving him a real opportunity. He was praised by many CFL fans at the time for electing to return for less money (comparable to the NFL) to the CFL because he preferred playing in this league. Mitchell has always marched to the beat of his own drummer.

[LLB997]

New Argos promotion, first 10 thousand fans get put in an armbar. I am actually looking forward to seeing him in double blue if he keeps his nose clean and avoids controversy.

[Ron]

BC ownership just had enough of that idiot. Luckily they found another owner who will be willing to put up with his crap. The only downside is that the other owner really didn't give up much ... or so it seems now.

[LLB997]

BC ownership just had enough of that idiot. Luckily they found another owner who will be willing to put up with his crap. The only downside is that the other owner really didn't give up much ... or so it seems now.ya, lucky they found another owner. XD

[Ron]

They also had to replace Belli's spot on the roster and this guy was as close as they could get.

[Will]

They also had to replace Belli's spot on the roster and this guy was as close as they could get.

Except this guy is theoretically an upgrade.

[bluto]

They also had to replace Belli's spot on the roster and this guy was as close as they could get.


Except this guy is theoretically an upgrade.

i'm hoping Reid is a replacement for Belli. Mitchell is the Armstead replacement.

[AngeloV]

i'm hoping Reid is a replacement for Belli. Mitchell is the Armstead replacement.

Good rotation assuming Huntley comes back.

[argonaut11xx]

I love the guy...talent wise.

However, he seems troubled,

I agree above that Pinball will be the key, both he and Mitchell have some common ground in their faith, and i am sure that will help.

If his head stay's on right...this guy will be a force for the Argonauts...if his brains turn to mashed potato's...this could be a complete train wreck.

Either way...the game on July 4th v the BC Lions will EXTRA fun to watch now.....i wouldnt want to be Travis Lulay

[argolio]

Wally got something for a guy he most likely would have cut lose.I don't think they would have cut him, and we didn't give up any important roster players or draft picks so the risk isn't that big.

[1argoholic]

The risk is big. If we cut him he'll go postal on the Lions and us. haha.

[ArgoGabe22]

Is he being released or have they convinced him to stay?
David William Naylor ‏<s>@</s>TSNDaveNaylor (https://twitter.com/TSNDaveNaylor)<small class="time">[/URL] </small> I am led to believe the Khalif Mitchell situation -- not wanting to come to Toronto via trade -- may resolve itself over the weekend.[URL="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23CFL&src=hash"]<s>#</s>CFL (https://twitter.com/TSNDaveNaylor/status/320230295498539008)

[Mulder]

The risk is big. If we cut him he'll go postal on the Lions and us. haha.

Hopefully we don't cut him early and he lives up to the promise of going postal on the lions! Would be nice to finally have a victory in BC!

[bluto]

Naylor is saying that he doubts Mitchell will report to us... We'll see.

[Will]

You'd hope that Barker would have done his homework on the guy before making the trade.

[ArgoRavi]

Let's say that we try to trade him. What kind of return can we get from, say, Calgary for Mitchell? We certainly wouldn't be dealing from a position of strength given that everyone knows that he won't report to the Argos. Hopefully Mitchell comes to his senses and realizes what an excellent opportunity that he has in Toronto. He is going to the defending Grey Cup champs! How bad can that be?

[Will]

Let's say that we try to trade him. What kind of return can we get from, say, Calgary for Mitchell? We certainly wouldn't be dealing from a position of strength given that everyone knows that he won't report to the Argos. Hopefully Mitchell comes to his senses and realizes what an excellent opportunity that he has in Toronto. He is going to the defending Grey Cup champs! How bad can that be?

Mr. Mitchell is thinking on the same astral plane as the rest of us, Ravi.

[1argoholic]

I think the Toronto Argonauts, Jim Barker and his staff as well as the Cities Of Toronto and Mississauga will all be safer if Khalif 'The Lose Cannon, Arm Snapper, Hot Head, Nutter' Mitchell stays out of Ontario.haha. He already has Wally and the Lions in his sights. Not one of Barkers best moves.

Remember Khalif the Argos wanted you, BC didn't. BC bad, TO good!!!

[bluto]

i like when a DT or a Guard is nuts.

imo, you gotta be nuts to get into a fist-fight-in-a-phonebooth 40 times in 3 hours.

[Will]

i like when a DT or a Guard is nuts.

imo, you gotta be nuts to get into a fist-fight-in-a-phonebooth 40 times in 3 hours.

It is true that you want your linemen to have an "edge" to them, however, Mitchell seems to go beyond the type of crazy that we expect out of a DT.

[Midnight Blue]

It is true that you want your linemen to have an "edge" to them, however, Mitchell seems to go beyond the type of crazy that we expect out of a DT.


I think Adriano Belli can be a positive influence on Khalif Mitchell;

Adriano can be Khalif's personal mentor; even during the game:


We've all seen those back-packs where a mother carries a child on her back; perhaps Khalif can get an extra-large size of one of those, and carry Adriano on his back during a game.

No, seriously ... Belli can whisper advice into Khalif's ear (such as telling him to mellow out, and not kill everyone).


This would increase Adriano's playing career (by saving his legs), and the doubled weight would make sure that Khalif doesn't wipe out the entire opposition.

At least until the playoffs, when set free of Belli's weight (while having accumulated several games of Adriano's experience), he will be an even greater force, to be reckoned with.

Besides, Adriano can always sneak in a few head shots at an opposing player, when the referee isn't looking. And since Belli's feet never actually touch the ground, he can never be penalized, since he is not officially in the game. A win-win scenario!

Just thinking outside the box.


Ka' Pla !

[Will]

According to a video on Sportsnet he won't report to Toronto.

[Ron]

He's not reporting. Very consistent in his vision as shown in this vid

http://www.sportsnet.ca/football/cfl/khalif-mitchell-chooses-business-over-argos/

N (http://www.sportsnet.ca/football/cfl/khalif-mitchell-chooses-business-over-argos/)otes: I love who he blames for his woes. (head of the snake) I love how he won't play anywhere but liked 3 other teams for great reasons .. but one Western city was "too far" for him.

[1argoholic]

Just like Harris said, he's all about himself. Wally is no fool, but he got rid of one and got something in return. Watch him make the Lions and play well. NEVER would have traded for this jackass. He showed what he was all about last year. Between racist comments and very dirty play with zero remorse. It might turn out to be the best if he stays out of TO.

See you on a future episode of Cops, Jail, or the First 48 you nutter! This guy could go postal in a second.

[ArgoGabe22]

Football is a privilege, guys will give up an arm to have the the opportunity to play pro. Yes the CFL salary aren't comparable but he's making 110k in only what 6 months of work? I get he has a business, but how many other guys do? Usually if it's too much they'll retire, not hold out until he gets traded to a "Western" team. He has handled this very unprofessionally and just seems like everything has to go his way, whining how cruel it is to get traded. I say release him, league suspends him for a season. We all know CGY will sign him minutes after his release.

[Mulder]

Football is a privilege, guys will give up an arm to have the the opportunity to play pro. Yes the CFL salary aren't comparable but he's making 110k in only what 6 months of work? I get he has a business, but how many other guys do? Usually if it's too much they'll retire, not hold out until he gets traded to a "Western" team. He has handled this very unprofessionally and just seems like everything has to go his way, whining how cruel it is to get traded. I say release him, league suspends him for a season. We all know CGY will sign him minutes after his release.

Keep him on the Roster, when he doesn't report suspend him. Only way to go.

[Wobbler]

If a failure to report doesn't nullify the trade, then shame on Barker.

[dmont]

Agreed. Unless the trade gets nullified, ol' Jim got fleeced on this one. I won't say shame on him though. Win some, lose some.

[Childress]

If a failure to report doesn't nullify the trade, then shame on Barker.

Barker gave up next to nothing to get an all star. He should be able to get next to nothing back in a trade to a western club.

[Invader]

If a failure to report doesn't nullify the trade, then shame on Barker.
Aren't trades usually contingent on the player passing a team physical? If he doesn't report how can the Argos test him? The league should step in and ask the teams to renegotiate or nullify the deal. The Argos may be forced to suspend him if no accommodation is made. I understand that a suspended player becomes a free agent after his option year and owes the team nothing?

[argonaut11xx]

Mitchell is "Flakier than my grannys pie crust"...

The only way he comes to Toronto is a pinball miracle....we could use his talent for sure, but the attitude scares me...

[1argoholic]

Firstly nutter needs a Canadian geography lesson. If he wants to stay on the west coast as they stated on TSN this morning then Edmonton and Calgary are out. Maybe we can trade him to Sask for Foley. haha.

[argotom]

Maybe a financial incentive like a bonus will get him to change his mind?

[ArgoRavi]

At this point, just try to trade him to Calgary or Edmonton and get what you can for him. The only other option is to suspend him when he doesn't report and play a game of chicken with him but I really don't think this guy wants to come out east. He is like the anti-1argoholic.

[ArgoGabe22]

He is like the anti-1argoholic.

1argoholic should invite him to his neck of the woods. Khalif will enjoy the lawn burning.

[matchuk]

this moron needs to be working some minimum wage job with students, then he may realize his life isn't so bad...guy is a goof, and even if he decides to report, i do not want him playing for my team

[Wobbler]

It appears that the Argos aren't ready to give up on Mitchell yet (http://www.cp24.com/argos-expect-mitchell-to-report-to-team-in-june-1.1235976). June is still a long way off...

[bluto]

It appears that the Argos aren't ready to give up on Mitchell yet (http://www.cp24.com/argos-expect-mitchell-to-report-to-team-in-june-1.1235976). June is still a long way off...

this is the stance they had to take, imo. we gave up 2 prospects for KM.

this way, even if Mitchell is bound and determined to not report, this at least will make other teams not think that they can offer us a roll of duct tape for him and think that we won't stick to our guns on the player's value. it also sends a message to players in the future that the Argonauts will expect players to honour their contracts.

[Argocister]

Upon listening to Naylor on TSN, it appears that Buono offered Mitchell extra signing bonus to lure him back to the Lions.So this year he would be earning less than last year.... so I really wonder that it wouldn't matter what team he was "traded" to..... there would be problems.

Reality may settle in when he pursues his "drink" company in Seattle.

http://blogs.edmontonjournal.com/2013/04/12/khalif-mitchell-wont-report-for-argos-camp-wants-to-play-in-calgary-or-edmonton/

http://www.citynews.ca/2013/04/12/new-argo-mitchell-im-not-going-to-toronto/#.UWgLWKhXpiY.twitter

[bluto]

Upon listening to Naylor on TSN, it appears that Buono offered Mitchell extra signing bonus to lure him back to the Lions.So this year he would be earning less than last year.... so I really wonder that it wouldn't matter what team he was "traded" to..... there would be problems.

Reality may settle in when he pursues his "drink" company in Seattle.

http://blogs.edmontonjournal.com/2013/04/12/khalif-mitchell-wont-report-for-argos-camp-wants-to-play-in-calgary-or-edmonton/

http://www.citynews.ca/2013/04/12/new-argo-mitchell-im-not-going-to-toronto/#.UWgLWKhXpiY.twitter

are you implying that this might be about money...?

shocked! i would be utterly shocked!

[Wobbler]

this is the stance they had to take, imo. we gave up 2 prospects for KM.

this way, even if Mitchell is bound and determined to not report, this at least will make other teams not think that they can offer us a roll of duct tape for him and think that we won't stick to our guns on the player's value. it also sends a message to players in the future that the Argonauts will expect players to honour their contracts.
If the trade is indeed "final", then I agree.

What puzzles me is that it appears that we didn't do our homework on this trade (e.g. secure a commitment from Mitchell before making it). Slightly more forgivable is not making the trade conditional upon his reporting (and passing a physical, as Invader pointed out). I really don't think this would happen in the NHL, for example.

[argolio]

Whatever happens, I just hope this thing gets settled sooner rather than later so it won't be a training camp distraction.

[bluto]

If the trade is indeed "final", then I agree.

What puzzles me is that it appears that we didn't do our homework on this trade (e.g. secure a commitment from Mitchell before making it). Slightly more forgivable is not making the trade conditional upon his reporting (and passing a physical, as Invader pointed out). I really don't think this would happen in the NHL, for example.

you never know.

our side may have known that Mitchell would have all different kinds of issues (how couldn't they??) but may have been relying on our track record of reforming headcases to bring him around. Pinball has brought around guys worse than Mitchell...

[bluto]

Whatever happens, I just hope this thing gets settled sooner rather than later so it won't be a training camp distraction.

ball is in their court. we could sit on his contact all year and not be out anything...

[Childress]

ball is in their court. we could sit on his contact all year and not be out anything...

The Argos would be out two prospects with Mitchell become a free agent at the end of the season.

[1argoholic]

I'll say it once again, Wally is a smart man. You don't get rid of a great talent for no reason. The guy wants to be in Vancouver but he's a few bricks short and a very loose cannon. Great job by Wally and not so great by Barker here. I can't see a few days, weeks or months changing Khalif 'The Grief' Mitchell.

I think Khalif was been dipping a little too deep into his West Coast Herbal drink. They'll make anything out of the stuff out here. haha.

[bluto]

The Argos would be out two prospects with Mitchell become a free agent at the end of the season.

some might say it's better to do that than to give in to a player's demand to break a contract while at the same time strengthening a rival team.

[294life]

are you implying that this might be about money...?

shocked! i would be utterly shocked!

Opus? Is that you? lol.

[bluto]

Opus? Is that you? lol.

i think you're making a Bloom County reference? never read it, so not sure...

246

[Mulder]

He's on with TSN Radio right now.

I'll update.

- Says he's a Toronto Argonaut right now
- He's made a case to the coaches and wants to look at options that are available.

- Talked to some coaches they have an "understanding"
- When training camp opens he will be "on the field" He was very careful not to say "with the Toronto Argonauts" But says he's an Argonaut right now

[Mulder]

After the Interview David Naylor Tweeted

David William NaylorVerified account ‏@TSNDaveNaylor 52m
@TruthWillFree96 says he will be on the field with the Toronto Argonauts to open training camp. #TSNDrive

In which Khalif Mitchell Replied.

Khalif Mitchell
‏@TruthWillFree96 Protected account
@TSNDaveNaylor I never. Said that. I said "I will be on the Field "WHEN" the Toronto Argo's Open. I AM a TORONTO ARGO" by Rights #Truth

Khalif Mitchell ‏
@TruthWillFree96 Protected account
@TSNDaveNaylor its Ok though. I just wanted to clarify that point. Interview was Great and Nice to chat w/ You and #Toronto. #BlessTheCity



What a headcase.

[1argoholic]

We do not need this guy! I was very outspoken about his actions last year and I stick with the same thoughts. I can't see this guy cleaning up his act and being a good clean team player.

[argonaut11xx]

We do not need this guy! I was very outspoken about his actions last year and I stick with the same thoughts. I can't see this guy cleaning up his act and being a good clean team player.

I agree with 1argoholic...this guy is "a few fries short of a happy meal"...that said...

July 4th in BC place, he might be a human buzzsaw...might be fun to watch him exact his revenge on Wally, and the Lions (same idea as watching Nascar for the crashes)

As previously mentioned...i agree that pinball has to be the guy to set him straight

[1argoholic]

If he does come and play with us he might run over and deck Wally. hahaha. Then he'll twist his arm and drop a racist comment on him. haha.

[Wobbler]

After the Interview David Naylor Tweeted

David William NaylorVerified account ‏@TSNDaveNaylor 52m
@TruthWillFree96 says he will be on the field with the Toronto Argonauts to open training camp. #TSNDrive

In which Khalif Mitchell Replied.

Khalif Mitchell
‏@TruthWillFree96 Protected account
@TSNDaveNaylor I never. Said that. I said "I will be on the Field "WHEN" the Toronto Argo's Open. I AM a TORONTO ARGO" by Rights #Truth

Khalif Mitchell ‏
@TruthWillFree96 Protected account
@TSNDaveNaylor its Ok though. I just wanted to clarify that point. Interview was Great and Nice to chat w/ You and #Toronto. #BlessTheCity



What a headcase.
I thought his clarification was quite important. Naylor made it sound as though Mitchell would report to the Argos and that he'd be an Argo next year.

What Mitchell actually said is that A) he plans to play next year and that he acknowledges that B) he is currently property of the Argos. It seems clear that he expects to be traded, but that he's trying not to be confrontational about it.

[Midnight Blue]

It is always good to have a few Pirates aboard the Good Ship Argonaut.


It intimidates the opposition.



Khalif will fit right in, if he wants to.


There is more I can add to this,


But I will just say,



Ka' Pla !

[mchesher03]

I'll take the long shot - he shows up and produces with the Argos this year. What fun would the year be without having at least one loose cannon D Lineman taking bad 15 yard penalties? Who needs their blood pressure to stay constant that much??? ;)

[Midnight Blue]

I'll take the long shot - he shows up and produces with the Argos this year. What fun would the year be without having at least one loose cannon D Lineman taking bad 15 yard penalties? Who needs their blood pressure to stay constant that much??? ;)


Actually, possibly two loose cannon/penalty-taking D Linemen....

For those who missed it three weeks ago :



Originally Posted by argofan87 :

It is true that you want your linemen to have an "edge" to them, however, Mitchell seems to go beyond the type of crazy that we expect out of a DT.

-----------------------------------------------

Reply :

I think Adriano Belli can be a positive influence on Khalif Mitchell;

Adriano can be Khalif's personal mentor; even during the game:


We've all seen those back-packs where a mother carries a child on her back; perhaps Khalif can get an extra-large size of one of those, and carry Adriano on his back during a game.

No, seriously ... Belli can whisper advice into Khalif's ear (such as telling him to mellow out, and not kill everyone).


This would increase Adriano's playing career (by saving his legs), and the doubled weight would make sure that Khalif doesn't wipe out the entire opposition.

At least until the playoffs, when set free of Belli's weight (while having accumulated several games of Adriano's experience), he will be an even greater force, to be reckoned with.

Besides, Adriano can always sneak in a few head shots at an opposing player, when the referee isn't looking. And since Belli's feet never actually touch the ground, he can never be penalized, since he is not officially in the game. A win-win scenario!

Just thinking outside the box.


Ka' Pla !

[jerrym]

"Newly acquired Toronto Argonauts defensive end Khalif Mitchell says he won’t be reporting to his new team because of a business opportunity he has on the West coast. ...
Mitchell said that at the moment it’s not possible to relocate his business to the East coast involving an herbal drink. ...
'I really would just love to stay here on the West coast,' Mitchell explained. 'I played for San Francisco for two years, and you know what? I’m accustomed to the Pacific Ocean. I’m accustomed to everything that comes with being on the West coast – the time difference, the people, the style of life because east and west styles of life are different.' ”

http://www.agoracosmopolitan.com/news/sports/2013/05/08/5733.html

I wonder what BC herb he puts in his drink. Maybe that is what affects his play on the field and makes him reluctant to move.

[ArgoRavi]

"Newly acquired Toronto Argonauts defensive end Khalif Mitchell says he won’t be reporting to his new team because of a business opportunity he has on the West coast. ...
Mitchell said that at the moment it’s not possible to relocate his business to the East coast involving an herbal drink. ...
'I really would just love to stay here on the West coast,' Mitchell explained. 'I played for San Francisco for two years, and you know what? I’m accustomed to the Pacific Ocean. I’m accustomed to everything that comes with being on the West coast – the time difference, the people, the style of life because east and west styles of life are different.' ”

http://www.agoracosmopolitan.com/news/sports/2013/05/08/5733.html

I wonder what BC herb he puts in his drink. Maybe that is what affects his play on the field and makes him reluctant to move.

So he doesn't think that there are people who will drink his herbal drink in the east? And it isn't like he would be in Newfoundland or Nova Scotia; he would be in Toronto. I don't understand this time difference excuse that he keeps giving. It wouldn't take him more than a few days to get adjusted to the eastern time zone. He does realize that Calgary is quite a bit different than Vancouver and San Francisco as well, doesn't he? And yet he has no problem going to Calgary.

[argolio]

That powerful B.C. herb makes their provincial party leaders win B.C. elections by big margins but lose their own seats.

[KCargosfan]

That powerful B.C. herb makes their provincial party leaders win B.C. elections by big margins but lose their own seats.

The herb has gotten many a people in trouble... oh, wait.

[1argoholic]

Oh the political scene in this province is something to behold. Like well like..hell it's like nothing else. It's as messed as many things here.

[ArgoGabe22]

This guy is starting to remind me of John Elway refusing to sign with the Colts. The whole west coast cost things is a fake excuse. He's from Virginia for crying out loud.

[argonaut11xx]

anyone know what the "drink" is called?....is it even for sale?...

[Invader]

So he doesn't think that there are people who will drink his herbal drink in the east? And it isn't like he would be in Newfoundland or Nova Scotia; he would be in Toronto. I don't understand this time difference excuse that he keeps giving. It wouldn't take him more than a few days to get adjusted to the eastern time zone. He does realize that Calgary is quite a bit different than Vancouver and San Francisco as well, doesn't he? And yet he has no problem going to Calgary.
It could be a distribution issue, normally companies like that grow geographically, adding new territories as they expand their sales and distribution network. Toronto might be on the pipeline for next year as part of a worldwide expansion, if not larger.

Mitchell has said repeatedly he wants to be traded to Calgary, who play the Lions five times this season.


“I told Wally in his face that if he ever traded me you might as well get a new offensive line, because I’m going to go to a team that’s going to kill you,” Mitchell said after discussing the deal Tuesday.

If the 27-year-old tackle had his way he’d line up this year with the Calgary Stampeders, who the player claimed had interest in him. Instead he’ll complete the option year of his contract on a depleted Argos defensive front, and will supply an instant storyline for the Lions’ home season opener July 4 against Toronto.

“I don’t want to burn a bridge , but I’m trying to figure things out and ask for a release,” said Mitchell, who does not have an agent. “What gives [the Lions]the right [to make a trade]? What’s the purpose of calling it an option year? Just call it a we-own-you year. I’m trying to benefit so I can go and whip ass next year. If B.C. doesn’t want me, B.C. should just release me.

“I just don’t want to go nowhere I don’t get to show B.C. what they lost,” he said.




Now, the latest...

[B][I]NEWS FLASH: Thursday, May 16, 2013


Argos: GM Jim Barker says DE Khalif Mitchell will be at camp

Initially refusing to report, all signs indicate that former B.C. Lions pass rusher Khalif Mitchell will be at Argo training camp.

After trying to trade him back to a West Division team, Argonauts GM Jim Barker expects former CFL all-star defensive lineman Khalif Mitchell (http://www.thestar.com/sports/argos/2013/04/02/cfl_argonauts_add_khalif_mitchell_from_lions.html) to be on the field when training camp opens in less than three weeks.

http://www.thestar.com/sports/argos/2013/05/15/argos_gm_jim_barker_says_de_khalif_mitchell_will_b e_at_camp.html

[KCargosfan]

It's easy to say you won't report in March. But when May 16th comes around and you realize you would be missing out on $750 a week for 3 weeks of training camp and then $8K per game starting June 27, it isn't so easy.

[Rich]

Don Landry reporting that Khalif Mitchell is in town and "ready for a new beginning" with the Argos.

Suddenly this defence is stacked with big talent. This team is going to be fun to watch, and that's an understatement.

[KCargosfan]

This team is going to be fun to watch, and that's an understatement.

In Barker we trust.

[Argocister]

In Barker we trust........ And Jones ..... And Milanovich!

[mchesher03]

Jim Barker continues to come up roses as of late (i'm not complaining)

I follow Khalif on twitter too - he's definitely here and attending camp. Him playing at a productive level will be huge for the Argos D.

[bluto]

Great news. (and not just because a few trolls on RF can stick that in their craw after using this trade as a way to slam the Argos)

The roster is solid all over and i'm really looking forward to this season's title defence.

[Will]

It is good to hear that he will be in camp. I was a little put off by his attitude, but our need on the defensive line always overshadowed that a bit.

[1argoholic]

I wasn't a Murphy fan when we got that mean, nasty guy from BC and at this point I'm not a Mitchell fan. Hopefully he can get down to playing very hard clean football and change my mind.

[ArgoRavi]

When we are assessing this deal in the future, we can take into account all three of the players involved: http://blogs.theprovince.com/2013/05/02/mitchell-deal-better-with-db-signing-by-leos/

[Wobbler]

Nice catch Ravi. I think the rest of us all missed that.

[OV Argo]

Great news. (and not just because a few trolls on RF can stick that in their craw after using this trade as a way to slam the Argos)

The roster is solid all over and i'm really looking forward to this season's title defence.

I think there may still be a few question marks - particularly on D - who plays DE; replacing McCullough; MLB maybe.

Kicking game still iffy to me anyhow and not sure Watters if a good enough dual kicker, but maybe,

The O could be outstanding, but needs the O-Line to continue to improve and play strong (as it did down the stretch last season).

[Will]

I think there may still be a few question marks - particularly on D - who plays DE; replacing McCullough; MLB maybe.

Kicking game still iffy to me anyhow and not sure Watters if a good enough dual kicker, but maybe,

The O could be outstanding, but needs the O-Line to continue to improve and play strong (as it did down the stretch last season).

I agree with OV that there are still a few ??? on the d-line and in the secondary.

[mchesher03]

I think there may still be a few question marks - particularly on D - who plays DE; replacing McCullough; MLB maybe.

Kicking game still iffy to me anyhow and not sure Watters if a good enough dual kicker, but maybe,

The O could be outstanding, but needs the O-Line to continue to improve and play strong (as it did down the stretch last season).

Swayze Waters was 3rd in punting avg. distance last year in the CFL - I'll take that. Whether we want to argue he gets the advantage of more dome games and less wind is another point. The main concern with Waters is that its taking an import role at the kicker spot that traditionally is an NI role.

Replacing McCullough is a very very big question mark - much more so than replacing ricky foley on the end imo.

[ArgoGabe22]

BC beat writer Lowell Ulrich thinks Awasome will never surface with the Lions. Based on what I can find, he is having passport issues.

[ArgoRavi]

BC beat writer Lowell Ulrich thinks Awasome will never surface with the Lions. Based on what I can find, he is having passport issues.

Yes, he was born in Cameroon which is causing some problems.

[ArgoRavi]

The Lions continue to wait on Awasom's arrival: http://www.vancouversun.com/sports/football/lions/Cord+Parks+been+superb+Lions+keep+pushing+Adrian/8679697/story.html

[ArgoGabe22]

With the way Cord Parks has played and with our rookie DBs it makes you wonder how much of an impact he could have had in Jones' defence. Khalif has been quiet lately but to be fair DT is probably the most overshadowed defensive position.

[Argo57]

Kind of gives you second thoughts, I'm still not sold on Mitchell yet.
Buono is pretty shrewd as well, from the Argo perspective the deal potentially filled a huge need as well, time will tell!!