‘It’s not a good look’: Jefferson

So, what does Brady Oliveira — a Winnipegger and one of the faces of the CFL — think about the leagues newly announced rule changes?

“I am a very passionate Canadian and grew up watching this amazing league,” said Oliveira after Wednesday’s closed practice. “I just want this league to continue to grow. And if that’s what they think is going to happen by making these decisions, then, I’m on board.”

The Blue Bombers running back is putting his trust in commissioner Stewart Johnston and the board of governors. While he didn’t see this coming, he’s willing to give it a few years to see how it all unfolds.

“They think it’s going to be a more entertaining and exciting game, even though I think it already is a very entertaining game,” said Oliveira.

“But I guess we just have to wait and see.”

To summarize, starting in 2026, a single point (a rouge) will no longer be awarded for a missed field goal or a punt that goes through the back of the end zone, an automatic 35-second play clock to eliminate inconsistent timing will be introduced, and all teams will be required to have their benches on opposite sides of the field on game day. The more substantial changes occur in 2027 when the CFL will move goal posts from the front of the end zone to the back of the end zone. Plus, the field will shorten from 110 yards to 100 yards — effectively eliminating the 55-yard line — and end zones will be trimmed down from 20 yards to 15. The 65-yard width will remain the same.

“Hopefully this isn’t small changes that will continue to get bigger as the years go on because this is a unique game, and we got to keep the uniqueness,” said Oliveira.

The CFL believes moving the goal posts and shortening the field will lead to more points scored which, in theory, will bring in more fans.

“It’s crazy because my girlfriend didn’t really know about football, she just got into it this year in depth and she said, ‘This isn’t really fair for defenders,’” said Bombers dime back Redha Kramdi, a Montreal native.

“But at the end of the day, it’s beyond being a sport, it’s now a business. Like I told her, I don’t agree with it, but I understand it. What’s posted on social media and what brings attention to the league is touchdowns, and catches by guys like Kenny (Lawler) and (Nic) Demski and that kind of stuff.”

Kramdi added: “I’m not oblivious, I know change needed to happen with the (league’s) financial situation.”

Defensive end Willie Jefferson isn’t throwing a fit over Monday’s announcement, but fully believes the league was in the wrong for not consulting with players first.

“It was wild to me — if I could say that — just to not have a say so in the changes to the league, especially when it’s a player driven league,” said Jefferson.

“Just talking to the guys in the locker room and talking to guys around the league, it’s not a good look.”

As an American, Jefferson believes it’s easier to roll with the new vision since he didn’t grow up with the three-down game. He fully understands the frustration of all Canadian players and coaches, though.

“Most definitely the Canadians should’ve had a say,” said Jefferson. “Especially the guys that’s been in the league, and then the young guys in the league, I feel like they could’ve had somewhat of a say so in how they wanted the game to develop in the future.”

taylor.allen@freepress.mb.ca

Taylor Allen
Reporter

Taylor Allen is a sports reporter for the Winnipeg Free Press. Taylor was the Vince Leah intern in the Free Press newsroom twice while earning his joint communications degree/diploma at the University of Winnipeg and Red River College Polytechnic. He signed on full-time in 2019 and mainly covers the Blue Bombers, curling, and basketball. Read more about Taylor.

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