We haven't even played a preseason game yet and already we've seen the blockbuster of the year! This trade will be remembered for all history for its magnitude and impact.
Ok, so maybe not. But make no mistake, the 6 player swap between Calgary and Toronto helps everyone involved. In my mind, that classifies as a winning deal. Toronto sent WR Reggie McNeal and DL Adrian Davis to Calgary in exchange for former Argo WR PK Sam and 2005 first overall pick, DL Miguel Robede. The teams also swapped negotiation rights.
The beauty of analyzing this trade is that McNeal and Sam played on the same team, at the same time. Heck, they even ran routes together. Both players were fill-ins for the Argos when the injury bug hit a few seasons back. Who prevailed? McNeal held his own but it was Sam who shone. When now retired Andre Talbot, then Kerry Joseph's go-to guy broke his arm, Sam became the guy for Toronto. When they faced 2nd and long (and trust me, they faced it a lot!) the ball was usually going to Sam, not McNeal. Having said that, with Toronto's dwindling list of reliable receivers, McNeal has been one of the most steady. However, when I need a guy to make a catch, I don't want my consistent number grabber, I want the big play man. And that's PK Sam.
For Calgary though, let's not forget McNeal's natural position is QB. Coach John Hufnagel admitted this aspect of McNeal's game will be evaluated before his position with the team is determined. A QB with legs? The CFL was made for this kid!
As for the DL swap, the Argos are giving away a guy who was somewhat buried in their system behind Belli, Flemons, Huntley and Foley. He's a decent guy but he has minimal reps and, in turn, low numbers. They're getting back a former 1st overall pick. With Belli gone, Robede should slide in nicely. He's still young but he has some experience and will know doubt learn from the veteran defence in Toronto.
Even Jim Barker admitted this trade benefits everyone involved, both teams and players. To properly analyze it, it may come down to who the negotiation list players are, and if they sign. Sadly, we will probably never find this out.
A WR for a WR, a DL for a DL, and an import and non-import for the same. In my mind, Toronto improved with this trade and, like I said about draft day, addressed some key issues. Did they win? Because this trade benefits everyone, there are no losers.
Now, if one of these teams wins it all in November, I may be forced to change my mind.
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