Esks release DB Joe Burnett

[OV Argo]

Guy is a very good DB IMO - Argos have big need there; makes sense to sign him ... no wait, Barker can find way better.

[ArgoGabe22]

He would also serve as a KR, so he would be a very good signing if he could just stay healthy.

[paulwoods13]

Any word on why Esks released him? Got an NFL opportunity, perhaps?

[OV Argo]

Any word on why Esks released him? Got an NFL opportunity, perhaps?

He was injured a good part of last season, and some are saying Jones prefers bigger DBs for his defence - the Esks have Watkins and Grimes (decent, fast, bigger DB - Burnett is way better IMO), so Burnett was expendable there ? Believe he is only 29, so not over the hill by any means; and the 2 seasons before last where he played full years he was IMO one of the best D-backfielders in the CFL (plus as Gabe pointed out he has some kick return skills as well); doubt he is going to be able to command big CFL buck$ as a cut rather than a FA at the start of FA season ? He did play in the NFL before coming to the CFL - so maybe he is getting another look there, but there is no indication of that ?

[ArgoRavi]

He was injured a good part of last season, and some are saying Jones prefers bigger DBs for his defence - the Esks have Watkins and Grimes (decent, fast, bigger DB - Burnett is way better IMO), so Burnett was expendable there ? Believe he is only 29, so not over the hill by any means; and the 2 seasons before last where he played full years he was IMO one of the best D-backfielders in the CFL (plus as Gabe pointed out he has some kick return skills as well); doubt he is going to be able to command big CFL buck$ as a cut rather than a FA at the start of FA season ? He did play in the NFL before coming to the CFL - so maybe he is getting another look there, but there is no indication of that ?

I believe that you have hit on the correct reasons, OV. Burnett, at 29, is likely too old to be getting NFL looks at this point. He only played five games for the Esks last season.

[hugoagogo]

Burnett is definitely worth a look see for a club that needs a vet DB. He is solid as a returner, too. I suspect Ottawa, or possibly Calgary (Burnett was a CFL all-star during his rookie year under Rich Stubler) could come calling. As long as he's healthy, he would be an asset to any club - Eskimos included.

As to why he was released in Edmonton, yeah, the "we've got other guys who are bigger and cheaper" motive appears to be the most popular one. He was one of Ed Hervey's first re-signings at a time where the fans really didn't need to see anymore favorites leave town, so his contract might have been a bit too much for his role under Chris Jones' D strategy.

[jerrym]

Since the Argos definitely need more experience at DB they should pursue him for TC at least.

[Fumblitis]

Good ball player but wouldn't offer an outrageous contract.

[jerrym]

Joe Burnett signs with Calgary.

http://www.cfl.ca/article/switching-sides-stamps-land-former-eskimo-burnett