Brady Oliveira Weighs Future as Free Agency Looms for Blue Bombers

UPDATE: Winnipeg Blue Bombers star running back Brady Oliveira is at a crossroads as he prepares to enter free agency. Following a disappointing playoff exit, Oliveira revealed during a press conference earlier today that he is actively considering his options for the 2024 season.

The Blue Bombers finished with a 10-8 record this season, culminating in a painful 42-33 loss to the Montreal Alouettes in the East Division semifinal. This defeat marked the end of the team’s five-year streak of Grey Cup appearances, a fact that weighs heavily on Oliveira as the championship game approaches in Winnipeg on November 16, 2023. Despite the heartbreak, he expressed deep gratitude for his time with the Bombers, stating, “Playing for my hometown, it’s been incredible.”

As a pending free agent, Oliveira noted that the team’s future roster and salary cap situation will heavily influence his decision. “I think I owe it to myself to sit down with my agent and OTG Sports and to talk to my family, and kind of see what the best scenario and situation is for me,” he explained.

Oliveira, who was drafted by Winnipeg in 2019, has established himself as a prominent player in the CFL, rushing for over 1,000 yards for the fourth consecutive season. This year, he recorded 1,163 yards on 201 carries and achieved career highs with 61 catches for 546 yards. His performance earned him the title of the league’s reigning most outstanding player and back-to-back top Canadian.

Looking ahead, Oliveira acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the team’s roster, particularly the offensive line that plays a crucial role in his performance. “I’m only as good as the guys around me,” he said. “There’s a lot of core pieces that have been here for the last number of years that I think still continue to make an impact on game day.”

While Oliveira’s commitment to the Bombers has been unwavering, he is also aware of the financial opportunities that may arise from other teams. Reports indicate that both the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and the B.C. Lions have previously expressed interest, with Hamilton offering a two-year deal worth $550,000 and B.C. presenting a three-year contract totaling $770,000.

When asked about the potential for negotiations to differ this time around, Oliveira stated, “I understand that I don’t know how many more years I have to play this game. I still know I have some time, but we’ll see.” He emphasized his desire to capitalize on his success, underscoring, “I’ve earned that.”

The Bombers’ struggles this season included finishing second in the league in rushing yards, averaging 124.1 yards per game, while facing criticism for their inconsistent offensive play. Oliveira’s development under rookie offensive coordinator Jason Hogan, who previously served as the running backs coach, has been a focal point of the season’s analysis.

In a candid moment, Oliveira reflected on his conversations with Hogan, stating, “Good conversation, but also some tough conversations as well.” He affirmed his belief in Hogan’s capabilities, asserting, “He deserved an opportunity to showcase his abilities.”

As the clock ticks down to the start of free agency, Oliveira’s next move remains uncertain. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as he weighs the future of his career in Winnipeg against the allure of new opportunities elsewhere.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story as Oliveira navigates a pivotal moment in his professional journey.