Ray re-signs with Argos?

[Will]

Hearing that the @TorontoArgos (https://twitter.com/TorontoArgos) have signed quarterback Ricky Ray to a new contract. Was scheduled to be a pending free agent. #Argos (https://twitter.com/hashtag/Argos?src=hash) #TSN (https://twitter.com/hashtag/TSN?src=hash)
— David William Naylor (@TSNDaveNaylor) December 3, 2015 (https://twitter.com/TSNDaveNaylor/status/672539181202219008)
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[R.J]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ricky Ray has signed a new deal with <a href="https://twitter.com/TorontoArgos">@TorontoArgos</a> details to come per <a href="https://twitter.com/CFL">@cfl</a> sources</p>&mdash; gary lawless (@garylawless) <a href="https://twitter.com/garylawless/status/672538487061614592">December 3, 2015</a></blockquote>
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I approve.

[timlb01]

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I approve.

Good News!!! Hopefully they sign Harris as well soon.

[ArgoGabe22]

Much faster than expected. I'm hoping the Argos and Ray agreed to a fair deal, with Ray just wanting to remain an Argo. I hope Harris recognizes the situation and is willing to re-sign as well.

[JBarnsley]

I think Harris will be playing in a different city this year. Perhaps Montreal or BC with Jennings traded somewhere if the latter happens. I have good reasons to think that BC wants Harris..

[Mightygoose]

Glad to have him back in the fold. Being a CG hosting year, the signing makes sense.

I doubt Harris will resign, unless the Ray contract is 1 year.

[ArgoGabe22]

Ray's contract is for two years, more than half is incentive based. Could hit 490k. According to Farhan Lalji.

[Scooter McCray]

Ray and Harris and Lulay are the best QBs that are/were pending free agents. Nobody else needs a starter. I hope Harris resigns soon too. I somehow think we will need each of them to get to the GC next year.

[R.J]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Deal is for 2 years, more than half is incentive based. Could hit 490k RT <a href="https://twitter.com/garylawless">@garylawless</a> Ricky Ray has signed a new deal with <a href="https://twitter.com/TorontoArgos">@TorontoArgos</a></p>&mdash; Farhan Lalji (@FarhanLaljiTSN) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarhanLaljiTSN/status/672543720089198592">December 3, 2015</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ricky Ray deal with <a href="https://twitter.com/TorontoArgos">@TorontoArgos</a> is for two years, 16 and 17 <a href="https://twitter.com/CFL">@cfl</a> and leaves cash on table for Argos to also sign Trevor Harris</p>&mdash; gary lawless (@garylawless) <a href="https://twitter.com/garylawless/status/672543931012370432">December 3, 2015</a></blockquote>
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[JBarnsley]

I just do not see it. If I were Harris I would not re sign when I can be a starter for MTL or BC. Hes not getting any younger and backing up Ray would be foolish in my eyes.

[gilthethrill]

First off, thanks Mr Braley for letting this deal get done.....as for Ray, just because he resigned does not mean he is instantly the starter. I can still see Harris returning to a system that he knows and a chance to compete for the starting job. Besides,he knows CFL teams require more than one bonafide qb on the roster. In addition, he will get a nice raise.

[ArgoRavi]

I just do not see it. If I were Harris I would not re sign when I can be a starter for MTL or BC. Hes not getting any younger and backing up Ray would be foolish in my eyes.

If Harris were to sign in either Montreal or B.C. he would be no more guaranteed to be the starter in either of those places than he would be in Toronto. If Harris does choose to leave though then the Argos should target Travis Lulay as a backup to Ray (assuming that Jennings remains the starter in B.C.).

[argotom]

It the team loses Harris over the RR signing, then it will be a second catastrophic blunder.

[Rocket]

It the team loses Harris over the RR signing, then it will be a second catastrophic blunder.

Yes I agree with you there. Don't know how they can sign Ray for a contract like that considering he sat on the sidelines all season and most of other seasons that he was here. Can't see Trevor Harris signing back with the Argos now considering he has been a back up for a few years in Toronto he will want to be a starter next year. Miloanovich or barker must have seen something at the end of the season when they were losing games to not have wanted to sign him to a starters wage.

["Issues"Mcgee]

I'm all for it. Here's hoping he is back to 100 per cent next year and finally gets the home crowds he so rightfully deserves.

[Argo57]

Great move, Ray is a good team guy, Argonauts can't afford to screw around, have to make sure they get someone signed.
As for Harris not as concerned about losing him after his second half of the season performance, wouldn't object to the Argos signing him at all but who knows what $$ he is looking for??

[timlb01]

I am sure they have already had conversations with Harris and his agent. You would not just sign Ray and not consider what the alternatives were. I think Harris will come back. I don't think anyone believes Ray will be healthy the entire season.

[Neely2005]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Deal is for 2 years, more than half is incentive based. Could hit 490k RT <a href="https://twitter.com/garylawless">@garylawless</a> Ricky Ray has signed a new deal with <a href="https://twitter.com/TorontoArgos">@TorontoArgos</a></p>&mdash; Farhan Lalji (@FarhanLaljiTSN) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarhanLaljiTSN/status/672543720089198592">December 3, 2015</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ricky Ray deal with <a href="https://twitter.com/TorontoArgos">@TorontoArgos</a> is for two years, 16 and 17 <a href="https://twitter.com/CFL">@cfl</a> and leaves cash on table for Argos to also sign Trevor Harris</p>&mdash; gary lawless (@garylawless) <a href="https://twitter.com/garylawless/status/672543931012370432">December 3, 2015</a></blockquote>
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I said this would probably happen all along. Many on here and more so on the CFL.ca Forum said that it would be impossible.

[Argo57]

I am sure they have already had conversations with Harris and his agent. You would not just sign Ray and not consider what the alternatives were. I think Harris will come back. I don't think anyone believes Ray will be healthy the entire season.

Barker needs to address the O-Line in 2016 or we won't keep any QB healthy.

[timlb01]

Barker needs to address the O-Line in 2016 or we won't keep any QB healthy.

I am sure they will. This is the first season since 2012 we have been active early in the off season addressing coaching and player issues. This is a great start with Ray and Stubler back. Hope Harris works out.

[AngeloV]

Works out perfectly. Ray is the starter in 2016,then either decides to retire or back up a "tired of living in Hamilton and playing for that jerk Austin" Zach Collaros when he becomes a FA in '17.

Seriously, it will be interesting to see what happens with Collaros. I can't see Hamilton not wanting to sign him, and am actually surprised they haven't signed him to an extension yet. Maybe it's been offered and he has refused.

[Argo57]

I am sure they will. This is the first season since 2012 we have been active early in the off season addressing coaching and player issues. This is a great start with Ray and Stubler back. Hope Harris works out.

Me too, hope they are very active this off season.

[doubleblue]

I think this is the way to go for Barker and Milanovich. I like Harris as a person and how he played in the first part of the season. But I haven't seen too much out of him to say he is at Ricky's level just yet, if ever.
I said at the first of the season I would want to see how he performed in the late season games and playoffs, when everything gets ramped up and the opposing defences start to zero in on him. IMO he didn't past the test. Not to say he isn't any good but would chalk this year up to experience, and there is no substitute for that.
Hope Barker can get him to resign and keep developing. I could see him getting some playing time even if Ricky is healthy. He has proved he can play in the League.
Other Teams? BC maybe. But they might be ok with Jennings and Lulay going forward. Winnipeg might decide they think he can be better than their current guys, and give him the starter job. I might agree with them on that.

[Rocket]

First off, thanks Mr Braley for letting this deal get done.....as for Ray, just because he resigned does not mean he is instantly the starter. I can still see Harris returning to a system that he knows and a chance to compete for the starting job. Besides,he knows CFL teams require more than one bonafide qb on the roster. In addition, he will get a nice raise.

Not sure why you are thanking Braley every team has to go by a salary cap it's not like he spent extra money or went out of his way to do anything different.

[timlb01]

Not sure why you are thanking Braley every team has to go by a salary cap it's not like he spent extra money or went out of his way to do anything different.

I thought about that too when I read the Braley comment earlier. I think new ownership has pretty much taken over and all decisions are now being made be the new group. I think the reason they did not take over ownership any earlier as they wanted a fresh start with the new stadium ect. I guess you could thank Braley for allowing the new leadership to take over technically early maybe.... I don't think you would have seen the Rich Stubler move if it was not for the new ownership group. We were pillaged over the past 3 years of our good coaching talent.

[gilthethrill]

Not sure why you are thanking Braley every team has to go by a salary cap it's not like he spent extra money or went out of his way to do anything different.

HAHA....I was waiting for someone to bite....sarcasm my friend, sarcasm! :)

[Stevoman]

Glad that he is back but hope it doesn't prevent the Argos from extending Harris as well and if we lose Harris as a result I will be less thrilled with Ray's extension.

[OV Argo]

Barker needs to address the O-Line in 2016 or we won't keep any QB healthy.


Last year's draft pick McEwen reports for TC; Jerriel King is healthy and is retained = those would be 2 potential big positives for the O-line; sign some FAs (known CFL guys or new guys) for TC competition; maybe tempting to use the 1st draft pick on an O-lineman too ( eg. Laval's repeat All-Canadian guard Charles Vaillanacourt if he was available, and doesn't get an NFL shot).

O-Line and D-backfield are the 2 big priority areas IMO.

[R.J]

http://www.tsn.ca/ray-re-signs-with-argonauts-1.403818
http://www.thestar.com/sports/argos/2015/12/03/ricky-ray-re-signs-with-argonauts.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter


Works out perfectly. Ray is the starter in 2016,then either decides to retire or back up a "tired of living in Hamilton and playing for that jerk Austin" Zach Collaros when he becomes a FA in '17.

Seriously, it will be interesting to see what happens with Collaros. I can't see Hamilton not wanting to sign him, and am actually surprised they haven't signed him to an extension yet. Maybe it's been offered and he has refused.
I think I'd fangirl out if this were to occur.

[argolio]

I think I'd fangirl out if this were to occur.Certainly not out of the realm of possibility. And imagine how much more they'll hate us if Collaros signs here next year.

[Ron]

I thought about that too when I read the Braley comment earlier. I think new ownership has pretty much taken over and all decisions are now being made be the new group. I think the reason they did not take over ownership any earlier as they wanted a fresh start with the new stadium ect. I guess you could thank Braley for allowing the new leadership to take over technically early maybe.... I don't think you would have seen the Rich Stubler move if it was not for the new ownership group. We were pillaged over the past 3 years of our good coaching talent.

Ray is getting up front cash then it's coming out of Braley's pocket. Same goes for Stubler and anyone else they sign in 2015. So Braley does deserve a thank you for doing that graciously for the good of the team.

The new owners are only on the hook for monies coming after Dec 31st. Be thankful that Braley isn't like some on here think he is. He could just as easily have said "no more $" this season and we'd be waiting until 2016 for anything to be done.

[KCargosfan]

Ray is getting up front cash then it's coming out of Braley's pocket. Same goes for Stubler and anyone else they sign in 2015. So Braley does deserve a thank you for doing that graciously for the good of the team.

The new owners are only on the hook for monies coming after Dec 31st. Be thankful that Braley isn't like some on here think he is. He could just as easily have said "no more $" this season and we'd be waiting until 2016 for anything to be done.

Huh? How do you figure Ray is getting any of this money before late June? I haven't seen a signing bonus anywhere.

[PullTogether73]

Huh? How do you figure Ray is getting any of this money before late June? I haven't seen a signing bonus anywhere.

Wondering the same thing.
What makes you think, after what little he has done for the Argos, that Braley would now throw away money which he doesn't have to do?

[gilthethrill]

Huh? How do you figure Ray is getting any of this money before late June? I haven't seen a signing bonus anywhere.

Braley is not paying a dime for either Ray or Stubler. His involvement (or lack of it) is mercifully over.

[Neely2005]

Glad that he is back but hope it doesn't prevent the Argos from extending Harris as well and if we lose Harris as a result I will be less thrilled with Ray's extension.

See:


<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Deal is for 2 years, more than half is incentive based. Could hit 490k RT <a href="https://twitter.com/garylawless">@garylawless</a>
Ricky Ray has signed a new deal with <a href="https://twitter.com/TorontoArgos">@TorontoArgos</a></p>&mdash; Farhan Lalji (@FarhanLaljiTSN) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarhanLaljiTSN/status/672543720089198592">December 3, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ricky Ray deal with <a href="https://twitter.com/TorontoArgos">@TorontoArgos</a> is for two years, 16 and 17 <a href="https://twitter.com/CFL">@cfl</a> and leaves cash on table for Argos to also sign Trevor Harris</p>&mdash; gary lawless (@garylawless) <a href="https://twitter.com/garylawless/status/672543931012370432">December 3, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>


Ray is getting up front cash then it's coming out of Braley's pocket. Same goes for Stubler and anyone else they sign in 2015. So Braley does deserve a thank you for doing that graciously for the good of the team.

The new owners are only on the hook for monies coming after Dec 31st. Be thankful that Braley isn't like some on here think he is. He could just as easily have said "no more $" this season and we'd be waiting until 2016 for anything to be done.

The season is over. The players aren't getting paid now.

[paulwoods13]

Even though the contract is for 2016-17, a bonus could be paid before January 1 but I think that's highly unlikely.

I think what Barker will offer Trevor is something very similar to what Ricky got but slightly lower in base salary. Say Ricky gets base of $250 and incentives totalling $240. Offer Trevor base of $200 and incentives totalling $250. Then if Harris wins the job and gets the most PT, he becomes one of the highest-paid players in the league. If he backs up Ricky he is almost certainly the highest-paid backup in the league, and probably still in the top 10-15 players overall.

[Fumblitis]

Even though the contract is for 2016-17, a bonus could be paid before January 1 but I think that's highly unlikely.

I think what Barker will offer Trevor is something very similar to what Ricky got but slightly lower in base salary. Say Ricky gets base of $250 and incentives totalling $240. Offer Trevor base of $200 and incentives totalling $250. Then if Harris wins the job and gets the most PT, he becomes one of the highest-paid players in the league. If he backs up Ricky he is almost certainly the highest-paid backup in the league, and probably still in the top 10-15 players overall.Its a nice financial position to be in to pay your backup a base salary of $200000.

[paulwoods13]

Its a nice financial position to be in to pay your backup a base salary of $200000.

Total exposure for the QB position is about $750k including third-stringer. That's more than most teams have spent overall, but seems like a reasonable investment to have two guys who can play at a high level.

[AngeloV]

Ray is getting up front cash then it's coming out of Braley's pocket. Same goes for Stubler and anyone else they sign in 2015. So Braley does deserve a thank you for doing that graciously for the good of the team.

The new owners are only on the hook for monies coming after Dec 31st. Be thankful that Braley isn't like some on here think he is. He could just as easily have said "no more $" this season and we'd be waiting until 2016 for anything to be done.

Not necessarily. They can very likely use up this years cap space on the bonus, but defer the payment until say, March 1, and I believe it would still count under the 2015 cap, just get paid in 2016.

[1argoholic]

The Toronto Argonauts hoist the Grey Cup at BMO Field in 2016 with Ricky Ray having a GREAT comeback year with a solid rebuilt O Line in front of him. Ricky doesn't slag everyone who doubted him such as Burris did in the 2015 Grey Cup run. Get ready to pull this post to the forefront.

Who says I can't be positive??? haha.

After the 2016 Grey Cup Ricky walks straight into the Hall Of Fame.

I'm excited that this got done so fast. Keep building Barker. We fans appreciate the GREAT news. Braley you still BLOW!

[Fumblitis]

Total exposure for the QB position is about $750k including third-stringer. That's more than most teams have spent overall, but seems like a reasonable investment to have two guys who can play at a high level.Especially in the last few years with QB's dropping like flies.


The Toronto Argonauts hoist the Grey Cup at BMO Field in 2016 with Ricky Ray having a GREAT comeback year with a solid rebuilt O Line in front of him. Ricky doesn't slag everyone who doubted him such as Burris did in the 2015 Grey Cup run. Get ready to pull this post to the forefront.

Who says I can't be positive??? haha.

After the 2016 Grey Cup Ricky walks straight into the Hall Of Fame.

I'm excited that this got done so fast. Keep building Barker. We fans appreciate the GREAT news. Braley you still BLOW!The rebuilding of that Oline will be the key to Ray's success.

[Antwon]

Glad that he is back but hope it doesn't prevent the Argos from extending Harris as well and if we lose Harris as a result I will be less thrilled with Ray's extension.

I agree. Having both under incentive loaded contracts and an open competition for the starting job is the best scenario. Losing Harris would be a bad scenario. So I’ll hold my breath and hope!

[Antwon]

Works out perfectly. Ray is the starter in 2016,then either decides to retire or back up a "tired of living in Hamilton and playing for that jerk Austin" Zach Collaros when he becomes a FA in '17.

Seriously, it will be interesting to see what happens with Collaros. I can't see Hamilton not wanting to sign him, and am actually surprised they haven't signed him to an extension yet. Maybe it's been offered and he has refused.

Honestly if Collaras leaves the Hammer it will be for a shot down south. Otherwise I expect an extension to be signed this off season or early on in the season. Bob Young has gone through too many bad years and is now reaping the benefits of a strong team and new stadium. Losing your most recognizable player would be a huge blow.

[AngeloV]

Honestly if Collaras leaves the Hammer it will be for a shot down south. Otherwise I expect an extension to be signed this off season or early on in the season. Bob Young has gone through too many bad years and is now reaping the benefits of a strong team and new stadium. Losing your most recognizable player would be a huge blow.

We shall see. I'm stunned that they haven't signed an extension yet. There has to be a reason for it, and I don't see Collaros going down south.

[R.J]

I don't see Collaros going down south, nor do I see him returning to Toronto, he seems genuinely happy about being a Ticat and even seems to enjoy winning over the Argonauts.

[Argo57]

I don't see Collaros going down south, nor do I see him returning to Toronto, he seems genuinely happy about being a Ticat and even seems to enjoy winning over the Argonauts.

IMO no chance he returns to Toronto, seemed to embrace Hamilton and the teams personne that's why he acted like an obnoxious ass during games.

[paulwoods13]

I don't see Collaros going down south, nor do I see him returning to Toronto, he seems genuinely happy about being a Ticat and even seems to enjoy winning over the Argonauts.


Why wouldn't he go to the highest bidder? I'm not saying he will or won't leave the Ticats, but I think fans too often assume that players really like a particular team or community more than they actually do. Money usually (not always, but usually) talks.

[Argo57]

Why wouldn't he go to the highest bidder? I'm not saying he will or won't leave the Ticats, but I think fans too often assume that players really like a particular team or community more than they actually do. Money usually (not always, but usually) talks.

Yes and he means too much to the Ticats for them t let him walk.

[R.J]

IMO no chance he returns to Toronto, seemed to embrace Hamilton and the teams personne that's why he acted like an obnoxious ass during games.


Yes and he means too much to the Ticats for them t let him walk.
This. Although, I disagree with the notion of him acting like an obnoxious ass. Sure money talks and all that, but Collaros seems very comfortable in Hamilton, so if the Ticats want him, I don't see him leaving.

[Will]

I don't know why everyone is so convinced that Collaros will leave Hamilton?

[R.J]

I don't know why everyone is so convinced that Collaros will leave Hamilton?
I don't think anyone's convinced that he will. Angelo just made a point that he finds it interesting that an extension hasn't been given or signed yet, no actual mention of him going anywhere. Actually, in re-reading the posts, most seem to think he'll stay in Hamilton. Only one mention that he might leave because of money and that was only mentioned because Paul feels fans put too much stock into players liking the team and community.

[argotom]

I don't think anyone's convinced that he will. Angelo just made a point that he finds it interesting that an extension hasn't been given or signed yet, no actual mention of him going anywhere. Actually, in re-reading the posts, most seem to think he'll stay in Hamilton. Only one mention that he might leave because of money and that was only mentioned because Paul feels fans put too much stock into players liking the team and community.

I think there is absolutely no chance of Collaros coming back.
Every time I have seen him interviewed on CHCH in Hamilton he has expressed his admiration for Austin and the entire operation.
I would not be surprised if the contract extension is done over the winter.

[Argo57]

I think there is absolutely no chance of Collaros coming back.
Every time I have seen him interviewed on CHCH in Hamilton he has expressed his admiration for Austin and the entire operation.
I would not be surprised if the contract extension is done over the winter.

Plus Austin is a "quarterback guru" who will impart his incredible wisdom upon Zach.

[argolio]

Not necessarily. They can very likely use up this years cap space on the bonus, but defer the payment until say, March 1, and I believe it would still count under the 2015 cap, just get paid in 2016.That's exactly what will happen. Braley stopped cutting Argo cheques as soon as the season ended.


I don't know why everyone is so convinced that Collaros will leave Hamilton?Not exactly convinced, but playing QB for Kent Austin can't be easy on one's nerves.

[gilthethrill]

I was totally shocked to read that Rays TD to INT ratio while with the Argos is 71-21....if Harris decides to sign elsewhere, I would be comfortable with McPherson as #2 with a youngster being groomed at #3....I would not be surprised if TH returns how ever.

[timlb01]

I was totally shocked to read that Rays TD to INT ratio while with the Argos is 71-21....if Harris decides to sign elsewhere, I would be comfortable with McPherson as #2 with a youngster being groomed at #3....I would not be surprised if TH returns how ever.

I was thinking last night, what is Saskatchewan going to do for their QB position? Durant has been hurt the past 2 seasons which is one of the factors they have struggled. Would they pony up more money than the Argos and make Harris there #2? If I was Harris they would have to offer substantially more then the Argos for a base for me to leave and risk an entire new system and management structure. I really don't think Harris is going anywhere. I don't see how he will get a better opportunity than he has in Toronto. If the trend continues for Ray like the last couple of seasons Harris will have plenty of opportunities to start and take over the starting role in 2 years. If Harris' contract is set up in a similar fashion as Ray's then he could earn top dollar being a back up if Ray is out. In 2 years who knows ,Ray could stay on as a QB coach and continue to mentor Harris. This would be optimal.

I don't know if I like McPherson as our #2 especially if Ray is out for long stints with injuries.

[gilthethrill]

I was thinking last night, what is Saskatchewan going to do for their QB position? Durant has been hurt the past 2 seasons which is one of the factors they have struggled. Would they pony up more money than the Argos and make Harris there #2? If I was Harris they would have to offer substantially more then the Argos for a base for me to leave and risk an entire new system and management structure. I really don't think Harris is going anywhere. I don't see how he will get a better opportunity than he has in Toronto. If the trend continues for Ray like the last couple of seasons Harris will have plenty of opportunities to start and take over the starting role in 2 years. If Harris' contract is set up in a similar fashion as Ray's then he could earn top dollar being a back up if Ray is out. In 2 years who knows ,Ray could stay on as a QB coach and continue to mentor Harris. This would be optimal.

I don't know if I like McPherson as our #2 especially if Ray is out for long stints with injuries.

Fumbleitis would be the guy to ask, but I thought the Riders were happy with both Smith and Price as backups to Durant. With all the other issues Saskatchewan needs to address, can they afford to spend a ton of cash for a #2 guy? Besides, if Durant is #1 going into TC, Harris would be wise to stay put and actually have a chance to start.

[argotom]

Ricky is one hit away from a career ending injury, then what if there is no Harris?
I know this can be said for anyone playing, however it is much more applicable to RR coming up to 37 and having two major injuries the last two years.

[R.J]

http://www.torontosun.com/2015/12/04/ricky-ray-argonauts-perfect-fit-for-each-other

I say let Harris leave.
And sorry tom, but every player is one hit away from a career ending injury. Age isn't the only factor and once again you're proving that your issue with Ray is solely based on his age. Cornish is 31 and retired, Burris is 40 and still playing.

[AngeloV]

Ricky is one hit away from a career ending injury, then what if there is no Harris?
I know this can be said for anyone playing, however it is much more applicable to RR coming up to 37 and having two major injuries the last two years.

Every QB is 1 hit away from a career ending injury. I joke about Collaros coming back, but he's missed 11 full and 2 partial games over the last 2 years due to injury as well. Age isn't a factor unless an injury is something that you can't recover from. The fact is that Ray just went pretty much a full year without taking a hit, and when he did play still had good timing. The full year without taking hits, will have a huge impact on his overall health in 2016. I really predict he will have an MOP type season.

["Issues"Mcgee]

The Toronto Argonauts hoist the Grey Cup at BMO Field in 2016 with Ricky Ray having a GREAT comeback year with a solid rebuilt O Line in front of him. Ricky doesn't slag everyone who doubted him such as Burris did in the 2015 Grey Cup run. Get ready to pull this post to the forefront.

Who says I can't be positive??? haha.

After the 2016 Grey Cup Ricky walks straight into the Hall Of Fame.

This. 100 per cent.

[R.J]

http://www.theprovince.com/sports/football/ricky+inks+year+extension+with+toronto+argonauts+f aces/11566668/story.html

“It was never my intention to go anywhere else,” Ray said via conference call on Friday. “This is where I wanted to be. It was important for me to have that opportunity, so when I did have that opportunity to work out a fair deal for both sides … hopefully, we were able to do that.”

“It’s going to be an exciting time for the Argonauts,” Ray said. “A new stadium, where we’re going to have a good schedule. We don’t have to rely on the baseball team making it or not making it to the playoffs … That was one of the reasons wanted to be back.”

“The way Ricky has done his contract, he knows he’s got to earn it (the starting job),” Barker said. “He’s got to play.”

[Argo57]

Every QB is 1 hit away from a career ending injury. I joke about Collaros coming back, but he's missed 11 full and 2 partial games over the last 2 years due to injury as well. Age isn't a factor unless an injury is something that you can't recover from. The fact is that Ray just went pretty much a full year without taking a hit, and when he did play still had good timing. The full year without taking hits, will have a huge impact on his overall health in 2016. I really predict he will have an MOP type season.

Hope you're right regarding Ray Angelo, also no guarantee Zach will be able to stay healthy, torn ACL is a tough injury to come back from.

[AngeloV]

Hope you're right regarding Ray Angelo, also no guarantee Zach will be able to stay healthy, torn ACL is a tough injury to come back from.

I really am confident. He really doesn't strike me as the type of guy that would try to prolong his career, if he didn't think he can compete at the absolute highest level. For him to want to come back, he must be really motivated and confident. I bet he has an outstanding year.

[Argo57]

I really am confident. He really doesn't strike me as the type of guy that would try to prolong his career, if he didn't think he can compete at the absolute highest level. For him to want to come back, he must be really motivated and confident. I bet he has an outstanding year.

Ray is a class act, low key team guy with no ego.

[Argo]

I really am confident. He really doesn't strike me as the type of guy that would try to prolong his career, if he didn't think he can compete at the absolute highest level. For him to want to come back, he must be really motivated and confident. I bet he has an outstanding year.

Now let's re-sign Harris.

[bluto]

Now if only we could find another Stephen McAdoo to build Ricky/Trevor another forcefield...

[jerrym]

Great to see Ricky back. But even better it's refreshing to see the new ownership take a proactive approach for a change - a big change. Argo fans needed to see that things are going to be different. Even if Ricky were to get injured in training camp and miss much of the season, the approach of the owners still speaks volumes compared to what happened (actually, did not happen) last year.

[doubleblue]

Even though the contract is for 2016-17, a bonus could be paid before January 1 but I think that's highly unlikely.

I think what Barker will offer Trevor is something very similar to what Ricky got but slightly lower in base salary. Say Ricky gets base of $250 and incentives totalling $240. Offer Trevor base of $200 and incentives totalling $250. Then if Harris wins the job and gets the most PT, he becomes one of the highest-paid players in the league. If he backs up Ricky he is almost certainly the highest-paid backup in the league, and probably still in the top 10-15 players overall.

Maybe Harris gets the Bonus money out of this years salary cap as a reward for his playing time this year plus an incentive contract going forward.

[Rich]

I think this is the way to go for Barker and Milanovich. I like Harris as a person and how he played in the first part of the season. But I haven't seen too much out of him to say he is at Ricky's level just yet, if ever.
I said at the first of the season I would want to see how he performed in the late season games and playoffs, when everything gets ramped up and the opposing defences start to zero in on him. IMO he didn't past the test.

Not even Ricky can play at Ricky level anymore. Anyone expecting Ray to duplicate his 2012 performance is dreaming in technicolour.

And i don't understand the Harris bashing. It's unfair to judge him on the 2 "home" game losses at THF. The entire team was justifiably flat as a pancake both games, Joe Montana couldn't have done much better. Take away those two games, and how many bad starts did Harris have? Yeah, he led the league in TD passes in his first season as a starter. He is tough as nails and a great competitor when the game is on the line. But everyone thinks he's a stiff. I don't get it.


He really doesn't strike me as the type of guy that would try to prolong his career, if he didn't think he can compete at the absolute highest level.

Let's be real here. If he seriously believed he could compete at the highest level, he wouldn't have taken a 50% cut in his base pay, he would have tried to get the big $ out of Montreal or Sasky. Taking the huge pay cut tells me Ricky accepts he can no longer be the great player he once was.

[Scooter McCray]

Let's be real here. If he seriously believed he could compete at the highest level, he wouldn't have taken a 50% cut in his base pay, he would have tried to get the big $ out of Montreal or Sasky. Taking the huge pay cut tells me Ricky accepts he can no longer be the great player he once was.
Not necessarily. Those other teams would not have paid out that kind of money because nobody knows what he still is or can be right now. Sask has Durant and Montreal has Glenn. There is no way they would have paid out $500 K for an unknown commodity. I believe Ray understands his contract was going to have to be incentive laden. If he can still play he will make top dollar. If not he will be a highly paid back up to end his career. That is the best he can get right now, and it is a good deal. He probably doesn't want to move again, and he has as good a chance to play for one more Grey Cup within a Toronto system he understands than anywhere else. Keep in mind one more Grey Cup win puts him at 4 and the most by any CFL quarterback.

[Rich]

I believe Ray understands his contract was going to have to be incentive laden.

But would this be the case if he sincerely believed he could still compete "at the highest level", i.e. as well as he has ever played?

[Antwon]

Not even Ricky can play at Ricky level anymore. Anyone expecting Ray to duplicate his 2012 performance is dreaming in technicolour.

And i don't understand the Harris bashing. It's unfair to judge him on the 2 "home" game losses at THF. The entire team was justifiably flat as a pancake both games, Joe Montana couldn't have done much better. Take away those two games, and how many bad starts did Harris have? Yeah, he led the league in TD passes in his first season as a starter. He is tough as nails and a great competitor when the game is on the line. But everyone thinks he's a stiff. I don't get it.

I agree 100%. I want Harris back with a fair shot at being the starter.
I'm just afraid that when SM went with Ray for the eastern final he showed his loyalty. And Harris might think he wont get a fair shot to start.

[Scooter McCray]

But would this be the case if he sincerely believed he could still compete "at the highest level", i.e. as well as he has ever played?

But you would have to convince the other teams of that and there would have to be a clear opening for a number one QB which there isn't anywhere right now. He is better off staying put and trying to finish his career on a winning note.

I like Harris, and agree with you. He accomplished alot for his first season and in trying circumstances with scheduling etc... He deserves to be here too and I want to see him succeed. Again he is familiar with the scheme here and could see significant playing time on a rejuvenated team. The Argos could have the best one two combination since Holloway Barnes and Holloway Clements.

[paulwoods13]

But everyone thinks he's a stiff. I don't get it.


I don't think there is anyone on this board who has said or implied that he's a stiff.

[Rich]

But you would have to convince the other teams of that and there would have to be a clear opening for a number one QB which there isn't anywhere right now.

You don't think Saskatchewan would jump at the chance to take Ricky over Durant if they knew Ricky could still play "at the absolute highest level"?

They know what Ricky knows and what every reasonable person knows: Ricky will never play at the "absolute highest level" ever again.

[AngeloV]

You don't think Saskatchewan would jump at the chance to take Ricky over Durant if they knew Ricky could still play "at the absolute highest level"?

I don't. Durant is an excellent QB, that has taken them to 2 Grey Cups, winning 1 and should have won the other, and he's younger than Ray. Why would they want to give up on him?


They know what Ricky knows and what every reasonable person knows: Ricky will never play at the "absolute highest level" ever again.

So now you're also a mind reader?

[R.J]

Not even Ricky can play at Ricky level anymore. Anyone expecting Ray to duplicate his 2012 performance is dreaming in technicolour.

And i don't understand the Harris bashing. It's unfair to judge him on the 2 "home" game losses at THF. The entire team was justifiably flat as a pancake both games, Joe Montana couldn't have done much better. Take away those two games, and how many bad starts did Harris have? Yeah, he led the league in TD passes in his first season as a starter. He is tough as nails and a great competitor when the game is on the line. But everyone thinks he's a stiff. I don't get it.Who knows at this point if Ray can return to form or not, we'll only get that answer next season, and even that depends on whether or not he plays.
I don't recall anyone calling Harris a stiff, I just think you going overboard with the whole thing. Whether you like it or not Harris hit a wall, and Milanovich went with a less than 100% Ricky Ray over Harris, IMO that spoke volumes.


Let's be real here. If he seriously believed he could compete at the highest level, he wouldn't have taken a 50% cut in his base pay, he would have tried to get the big $ out of Montreal or Sasky. Taking the huge pay cut tells me Ricky accepts he can no longer be the great player he once was.Let me be real with you, Ray is 36 years old, coming off a shoulder injury, surgery and recovery, it's highly unlikely that anyone would have given Ray a huge base salary to start with. Actually, if Ray starts all of next season he'll make roughly around the same about as he did in his last deal. Ray has also made it very clear he likes being here in Toronto, likes the coaching staff and wants to be a part of the new era in BMO. The fact that a deal was done so quickly should be seen as a positive. What I'd like to know is how in the world you know what's going on in Ricky Ray's head ?


But would this be the case if he sincerely believed he could still compete "at the highest level", i.e. as well as he has ever played?
Ray believes that the off season will give his shoulder enough time to heal properly and that he can still be 'the guy".

You don't think Saskatchewan would jump at the chance to take Ricky over Durant if they knew Ricky could still play "at the absolute highest level"?

They know what Ricky knows and what every reasonable person knows: Ricky will never play at the "absolute highest level" ever again.
The only way I see Durant going anywhere is if Jones feels that Durant needs to take a pay cut or at least restructure his current deal and Durant in turn, doesn't budge.
How does anyone know that ? I thought Burris was done after 2014, and boy was I wrong.