Argos: What’s next for five key free agents?
Here are some of the prominent impending free agents on the Toronto Argonauts, and what the future might be for them:
RICKY RAY, QUARTERBACK
He will be 37 next October and in his 14th CFL season. He missed almost all of 2015 after having off-season shoulder surgery, but he wants to return to the Argos and believes he has plenty of football left. In a salarycap league, however, it is unlikely the Argos will be able to keep Ray and Trevor Harris, who is also going to be an free agent.
Outlook: Ray could wind up in another CFL city if the Argos decide to pin their future on the younger Trevor Harris, who is 29. Saskatchewan and Montreal could be possible destinations.
TREVOR HARRIS, QUARTERBACK
Harris finally got his chance to show what he can do as a starter, at least for 16 games. He led the league with 33 touchdown passes, even though he was unseated by Ray for the final two regular-season games and the East semifinal. He was also the team’s nominee as the outstanding player.
Outlook: Harris is getting married in December and won’t consider his options until then. If he doesn’t get a reasonable raise and assurances that he will get the chance to start next season, he could bolt to either Saskatchewan or Montreal, who could use a durable and proven starter.
CHAD OWENS, SLOTBACK
The five-foot-eight veteran slotback had a tough season statistically — his 570 receiving yards were the fewest he has had in the last six seasons — as he battled injuries and had to share the ball with a new group of receivers. Owens is still a great asset on punt returns and wants to come back to Toronto next season.
Outlook: Owens’ poor season won’t give him much leverage in contract negotiations. At 33, there are those who think he may have slowed a step. But he has put down roots in the area and won’t be looking elsewhere.
RICKY FOLEY, DEFENSIVE END
This was a disappointing year for Foley, who was traded from Saskatchewan to Toronto in the offseason and had some personal issues before coming to camp. He was hurt for much of the season, but, at 33 and a veteran of 11 CFL seasons, he still hasn’t lost his passion for the game.
Outlook: Foley grew up in the area and played at York University. His family lives in the area and he wants to return next season. A team leader in the dressing room, he is looking for a fresh start at BMO Field next season.
SWAYZE WATERS, KICKER
This was a trying season for Waters, who missed much of the year to groin and leg issues suffered in the opening game of the regular season. Waters was coming off a career year in which he was named the CFL’s outstanding special teams player.
Outlook: Waters wasn’t sharp in the playoff loss to Hamilton, missing two of four field-goal attempts. The Argos realize how talented he is, however, and want him back. His health could be a concern. He is the rare kicker who can perform all three kicking functions well: field-goal kicking, punting and kickoffs.