The Saskatchewan Roughriders owe the Toronto Argonauts a “Thank you” card.
The winless, desperate Argonauts acquired Zach Collaros in a trade from the Roughriders, who conceivably could have been in position to cut the oft-concussed quarterback and suggest he retire. So the Roughriders have washed their hands of the whole, miserable affair and passed their problem to somebody else. The Roughriders even obtained a fourth-round draft choice, which could be upgraded to a second-rounder if Collaros is successful.
Don’t bet on that happening. Collaros was last successful in 2015, before the accumulation of knee and head injuries ensured he would never again be a productive quarterback. He was limited to 14 games last season, his first in Saskatchewan since being traded from Hamilton, and he suffered another concussion three plays into this year’s season-opener.
Because Saskatchewan gave Collaros a signing bonus, it has paid most of his salary this season and is comfortable with up-and-comer Cody Fajardo as its new starter.
Based on precedent, it won’t be long until the Argonauts need another starting quarterback.