I don't think so. In fact, I think Chris might have two years (11 and 12) in him yet. However, Scott Schmidt with CanadianFootballTalk.com (the same guy that got under the skin of the Rider Nation when it came to the salary cap) believes Szarka's days are perhaps numbered. Take a read and comment away.
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Chris Szarka has been a fixture with the Saskatchewan Roughriders since 1997. But will a declining role in the offense along with recent acquisitions by the Riders spell the end for one of the best fullbacks in the CFL for the past decade?
At age 36, Szarka’s production with the Riders has decreased to a minimal level over the past 5 seasons. While still a valuable blocker and a strong locker room presence, the Riders may be looking to get younger, and more of an impact on what was a dismal special teams, out of their fullback position.
The biggest sign may have come on draft day. General Manager Brendan Taman ended his draft by getting his hands on two fullbacks, Graeme Bell through a trade with Edmonton and by drafting Kyle Exume. Both play the same position as Szarka and were both likely acquired for their strength on special teams. Neither are likely to have the same impact on offense as Szarka had throughout his career but over the past few years the Riders haven’t gotten that type of production at fullback anyways. Bell is a strong blocker and could fill that role in the backfield.
There is a logjam at running back in Saskatchewan as Wes Cates and Hugh Charles are the top two at tailback and rookie Brandon West was signed to compete for a spot as kick returner and backup running back. Stu Foord may be on the bubble as well. Neil Hughes is also a good special teams player and can have an impact at fullback.
The Riders are likely to go with whichever players can add the most to the special teams game and can help in backfield blocking. Right now that looks like Hughes, Bell and possibly Exume, leaving Szarka on the outside looking in.
With Szarka being elected to Regina City Council in 2009, he would more than likely return than look for a new city to play in. The only question that remains is whether or not the decision comes before training camp, or Szarka becomes a training camp casualty.
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6 comments:
Is this guy serious?
Szarka is in his final days, but I think he still has some game in him. I really can't see him being a training camp cut unless he comes in fat and out of shape(like some blogger I know). Seeing he has probably met with the coaches a few times, I'm guessing they would see that he is and cut him before camp.
The Canuck truck isn't being put into park anytime soon. He is the best blocking FB in the game and losing him would be bad for DD and the offence.
peter dalla riva
Can Bell do what Szarka does at a much cheaper price. This may not be as illogical as some of you think. In this day of the salary cap, count nothing out.
2011 will be make it a 15 yr career.
Out of curiosity what did you and these posters say when he was proven right???
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