Bombers commence offensive line makeover with signings of Stanley Bryant and Marc Dile

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are having a busy Tuesday. They kicked off the CFL's free agency period by signing Canadian linebacker Sam Hurl from Saskatchewan, then made two big (literally!) additions on the offensive line later in the day, bringing in tackle Stanley Bryant (from Calgary) and Marc Dile (from Hamilton). What do these newest signings mean for their offensive line this coming season?

Bryant is perhaps the key figure here, and he certainly comes in with the highest profile. Following Brett Jones' departure for the NFL, Bryant was the only one of the nine league all-stars initially slated for CFL free agency who actually hit it. That, plus his role starting at left tackle on a Calgary team that allowed a league-low 26 sacks this year, made him perhaps the most-coveted target heading into this year's free agency. There were plenty of suitors for him, and Winnipeg's signing of Dile might have suggested that they had chosen a cheaper option. Soon afterwards, though, they announced that they'd brought in Bryant as well, for a reported $160,000 a year. That could be a hefty price tag, but it may be a gamble worth taking. Bryant's a five-year CFL veteran, and at 28, he should have plenty of good years left. If he can continue to play at the league all-star level he performed at this past season, he could be a foundational presence for the Bombers, and well worth the money.

Dile is a lower-cost addition, but one with other obvious risks. He's been a capable player at times for Hamilton, but injuries have been a big problem for him. That kept him on the outside looking in for the Ticats for most of 2014. He does have some versatility, though; he's played both tackle and guard at times over his three years in the CFL, and if he can stay healthy, he might be a solid addition for Winnipeg.

One element that will hang over these moves is the Bombers' apparent decision to move on from tackle Glenn January, though. January hadn't signed anywhere as of Tuesday afternoon, but it seems highly unlikely he'll return to Winnipeg after these signings, and the Bombers appeared ready to move on from him moving into free agency. That's a little curious; yes, January's had health struggles at times (including a back injury in October that knocked him out for the year), but he's been a very good player when healthy, holding down the left tackle slot for Winnipeg and earning three consecutive league all-star nods from 2011-13. Bryant is replacing him, but he comes at a higher cost. January is a little older (31), but he should still have some good seasons left. It's going to be interesting to see where he lands and if he's still able to play at a high level. If he does, and if Bryant struggles thanks to injuries or otherwise, Bomber fans may regret what they lost in this transition.