Saskatchewan Roughrider General Manager Brendan Taman announced that the team has made a trade with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
The Riders will receive import Defensive End Odell Willis and a conditional fifth round draft pick in 2013, in exchange for second (8th overall) and fourth (23rd overall) round selections in the upcoming 2012 CFL Draft, as well as a conditional draft pick in 2013.
Willis (6’2 – 255 lbs) began his CFL career with the Calgary Stampeders in 2009, where he signed as a Free Agent prior to the season. The 27-year-old Mississippi native was acquired by the Blue Bombers via trade midway through the ’09 season.
The former University of West Georgia star enjoyed a career season in 2011, piling up 27 tackles and 13 quarterback sacks (both career highs) and was named an East-Divison and CFL All-Star.
“Odell is arguably the best pass-rusher in the CFL,” noted Taman. “I’m very confident he significantly upgrades our club on the defensive side of the football.”
Since entering the league in 2009, Willis has been a pass-rushing force from his defensive end spot, his 13 sacks in 2011 tied him for the league lead with Justin Hickman, while his totals in 2010 (11) and 2009 (10) placed him third each season.
During his three seasons in the CFL, Willis has tallied 78 tackles, 34 quarterback sacks and three fumble recoveries.
9 comments:
I can't believe these idiots on the Cage cutting down this trade. Willis is the premier rush end in this league and is exactly what we need. Some Rider fans obviously need to give their head a shake.
perry
I hope Willis is worth it. Giving up two Canadian picks for someone whose head may not be in it is a risk.
GREAT TRADE!!
I agree with Perry
I agree with the first anonymous. Too much of a risk if we only have him for one year.
I thought we would end up getting a receiver with the #8 pick. I guess that won't be the case. I hope Sisco really develops this year.
Have you not been paying attention? Taman has brought in wr with pro experience. Plus we already have Dressler,Hill,Bagg,Wheelwright,Getzlaf. Harper is a stud. It's not to much to pay for a proven all-star.
Rule # 1;
You don't trade Canadian draft picks for imports.
Harper may be a stud but was so Terrence Nunn. I think the trade is great, gives us a legitimate pass rush that will be that much better if Hawkins can stay healthy and if Rowe develops as many expect he will provide us with a nice option to give those two a breather.
As for losing Canadian picks, you get those every year. Picking up a player like Willis does not happen that regularly.
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