Tip of the Tower
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Toronto Argonauts Bring Back Brandon Whitaker

By David Morassutti

May 14, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; A general view from east upper deck of the newly renovated BMO Field before the start of the Toronto FC match against the Vancouver Whitecaps at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
May 14, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; A general view from east upper deck of the newly renovated BMO Field before the start of the Toronto FC match against the Vancouver Whitecaps at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Toronto Argonauts announced on Thursday that All-Star Brandon Whitaker will be back for another season with the Double Blue.

The Toronto Argonauts‘ roster continues to take shape under general manager Jim Popp and head coach Marc Trestman. As reported by The Globe and Mail, Brandon Whitaker has been re-signed for a third season with the team.

With limited experience in the backfield it is not surprising to see the veteran running back making a return, despite reports that they were moving on from him. Last season, Whitaker was second in the CFL in rushing with 1,009 yards, while he added another 549 in receiving with a combined seven touchdowns.

Despite the four-time CFL East All-Star’s production, the Argonauts offence struggled to score touchdowns. However, with a different approach under the new regime, it might bring about a more effective season for the Argos offence.

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Whitaker played four seasons under Trestman in Montreal, which included career highs with 1,381 rushing yards and another 638 receiving in 2011. With an improved offensive line, the 31-year old has a strong chance for another 1,000 yard rushing season and a minimum 500 yards receiving.

Where the Double Blue need to improve is rushing touchdowns, which they ranked last in during the 2016 season (with seven). There will be a tough battle in the backfield with Anthony Coombs and Ben Malena, as well as former NFlers Kendall Hunter and James Wilder Jr.

Moving forward, the Argonauts could look to make their next addition at the wide receiver position, where they lack experience. They attempted to add Ernest Jackson who signed in Montreal, while adding Jeff Fuller, and Khalil Paden through free agency.

The Argos may also consider players like John Chiles, Andy Fantuz (still recovering from a torn ACL), Chris Getzlaf or Marcus Henry. They already have young receivers Brian Jones and Llevi Noel — who showed promise near the end of last season — along with Devon Wylie, who could see increased snaps.

Ultimately though, It all comes down to the play of Ricky Ray. The veteran quarterback is looking to get over a tough recent injury history and rejuvenate his career with Trestman.

Next: J’Michael Deane Caps Off Impressive Additions

There is little denying Whitaker had an excellent season in 2016. However, do you seem him taking his play to another level under Trestman? Further, what are your early takeaways from the new regime in Toronto? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

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