The B.C. Lions saw an opportunity to present a tempting offer to Canadian running back Brady Oliveira during the CFL’s negotiation period in February, without foreseeing any drawbacks.
Co-general managers Neil McEvoy and Rick Campbell, who also serves as the head coach of the Lions, proposed a financial package totaling $770,000 for the reigning Most Outstanding Canadian player in the league.
“We believed he might be a good fit for us. Even if not, it could potentially raise his market value. We engaged in discussions with Brady, and while he initially expressed a strong desire to remain in Winnipeg, we proceeded with the negotiations, ultimately increasing his value in the market for our team, which I’m content with,” McEvoy remarked with a grin during the CFL Combine in Manitoba.
The Lions presented a three-year deal, with the first-year salary set at $250,800, followed by $256,800 and $262,800 in the subsequent seasons. Despite Oliveira’s girlfriend, Alex Blumberg, having connections to the West Coast, the couple decided to stay loyal to Winnipeg, where the star running back was born and raised.
After weighing his options, Oliveira opted to sign a contract with the Blue Bombers, offering $230,000 in the first year and $240,000 in the second year, inclusive of a $100,000 signing bonus. This commitment binds the five-foot-ten, 222-pound player to the blue and gold team until the end of the 2025 season, coinciding with Winnipeg’s hosting of the Grey Cup that year.
“It’s a common scenario with players, not just Brady, where you take calculated risks to gauge outcomes. While we would have liked to secure his services, I’m pleased for the league when players remain in their current markets. Similarly, I hope our B.C. Lions players opt to stay with us. It’s beneficial for all parties involved,” Campbell expressed.
The 26-year-old successfully met all the performance targets outlined in his contract, resulting in him earning $120,000 in the previous season. Oliveira demonstrated his prowess by rushing 260 times for 1,534 yards and securing nine touchdowns. Additionally, he caught 38 passes for 482 yards and four touchdowns, earning him recognition as a CFL all-star. His objective was to highlight the genuine value of top-tier running backs.
“Brady, may he be blessed, has consistently played with great intensity, and unless he’s facing us, I hope he continues to display his aggressive style. It’s not that people doubt the value of running backs. The unfortunate truth is that the position is prone to injuries and takes a significant toll,” remarked McEvoy.
“All running backs, whether in this league, other leagues, or even at the minor level, endure a tremendous amount of physical punishment. Regrettably, due to the demanding nature of the position, it’s essential to be prepared to find replacements, as these players often struggle with injuries. It’s a tough position, and we certainly recognize its importance. However, due to the injury risk, we must always be on the lookout for the next talent.”
Oliveira has achieved consecutive seasons of rushing for over 1,000 yards and is determined to showcase that his greatest asset is his consistent availability. In the West Final victories against B.C. in 2022 and 2023, he amassed 41 rushes for 239 yards and one touchdown, along with six receptions for 52 yards.
Be the first to comment