The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have made a strategic move in the 2021 CFL Draft, trading down to select a receiver in the second round.
The Blue Bombers, who held the 18th overall pick, traded down to the 23rd spot in a deal with the Ottawa Redblacks. In exchange, the Blue Bombers received the 23rd and 36th overall picks.
With their new pick, the Blue Bombers selected receiver Brendan O’Leary-Orange from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
O’Leary-Orange, a 6-foot-4, 220-pound receiver, had an impressive college career with the Rebels, recording 1,301 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns in 33 games.
Blue Bombers general manager Kyle Walters expressed his excitement for the team’s new addition, stating, “We are thrilled to have Brendan join our organization. He is a talented receiver with great size and athleticism, and we believe he will be a valuable asset to our team.”
The trade down also allowed the Blue Bombers to acquire an additional pick in the second round, which they used to select defensive back Noah Hallett from McMaster University.
Hallett, a 5-foot-11, 190-pound defensive back, was a standout player for the Marauders, recording 71 tackles, four interceptions, and two forced fumbles in 24 games.
Walters praised Hallett’s versatility and playmaking abilities, stating, “Noah is a dynamic player who can make an impact on both defense and special teams. We are excited to see him in a Blue Bombers uniform.”
The Blue Bombers’ trade down and selection of O’Leary-Orange and Hallett demonstrate their commitment to building a strong and well-rounded team for the upcoming season.
With the CFL Draft now complete, the Blue Bombers will continue to evaluate and add talent to their roster as they prepare for the 2021 season.
