January 2, 2013

Bombers ink pair of Canadians to new deals

CFL.ca

CFL.ca Staff

WINNIPEG — The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have extended the contracts of non-import slotback Cory Watson and non-import offensive guard Chris Greaves.  As per team policy, terms of the deals were not disclosed. 

“We are very pleased to lock up two of our young, solid, Canadian players for the foreseeable future,” said Vice-President and General Manager Joe Mack. 

“We’ve been very pleased with Chris’ progress from the day we drafted him, and feel he is continuing his progression into a great offensive lineman in this league. Cory is a big, physical target for us that has come a long way since he joined our club out of the draft in 2010, and we are looking for him to have a breakout season in 2013.”
Watson fought through injuries in 2012 – his third season with the Blue Bombers – and finished the season with 35 receptions for 344 yards and one touchdown. His top season to date came in 2011 when he caught 69 receptions (first on the team) for 793 yards and one touchdown. Watson was originally drafted 9th overall in the 2010 CFL Draft.

“I’m very happy to get this deal done so that I can remain with an organization that I feel has great promise for many years to come,” said Watson.  “I’m very excited to get started in the new stadium and help us get back on the right track in 2013.”

Greaves started all 18 games at left guard. The third year Bomber was originally drafted as a defensive lineman out of Western (sixth round, 45th overall in the 2010 CFL Canadian Draft) but was converted to an offensive lineman before the start of the 2010 training camp. Greaves helped anchor an offensive line that steadily improved throughout the season and featured running back Chad Simpson who ran for 1,039 yards and five touchdowns

“I am very grateful to the Blue Bomber organization for originally drafting me and giving me an opportunity three years ago. I’m really excited to build off of my year personally in 2012 and also help our team improve our record in 2013,” said Greaves.