Toronto Argonauts Take Aim at J’Michael Deane to Boost O-Line

The Toronto Argonauts are reportedly one of three teams who have made offers to J’Michael Deane, one of the better offensive linemen in the CFL.

As Jim Popp and Marc Trestman start their tenure with the Toronto Argonauts, there are numerous aspects which need to be looked at. This includes getting the best out of Ricky Ray.

In order to do this, Popp and Trestman will need to find a way to keep Ray healthy. In five seasons with the Argonauts, he has only started 52 out of a possible 90 regular season games.

One way to improve the 37-year old’s chances of remaining on the field, is to strengthen the offensive line. And if the latest speculation is anything to go by, the team is doing their best to rectify this situation.

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As reported by TSN’s Gary Lawless, the Argonauts are one of three teams to make an offer to J’Michael Deane. Lawless goes on to write that the other two teams are the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Saskatchewan Roughriders.

Securing the services of Deane would undoubtedly be a significant addition to the Double Blue. He is one of the top free agents still available and regarded as one of the better offensive linemen in the CFL.

The 30-year old has played six seasons in the CFL, with the Calgary Stampeders and Ottawa Redblacks. He was originally selected by Calgary in the third round of the 2010 CFL Draft, before being claimed by Ottawa as part of the expansion draft in 2013.

Deane offers big game experience after appearing in three Grey Cups, which included his first championship last season, with the Redblacks. He is also a versatile asset, capable of playing at both guard and tackle.

While it may have little influence on the Hinton, Alberta native’s decision, he has some connections with Toronto. He previously spent two summers as a lineman for the Metro Toronto Wildcats in the Ontario Varsity Football League, and his mother lives in the GTA.

Deane played his college ball at Michigan State, where he spent five years. The indications are he will likely make a decision on his new team by the end of this week.

Next: Re-Signing Owusu-Ansah Boosts Defence

Taking everything into account, how likely do you think it is for Deane to choose Toronto as his next home? Further, what do think he would bring to the Argonauts’ organization? Share your thoughts in the comments section.