With Montreal Alouettes head coach Marc Trestman staying on-board for now with a contract extension. For general manager Jim Popp what is the next task on his to do list? From reading the tea leaves, it seems that Jamel Richardson is due up for new contract.
As mentioned in my previous articles about this situation, with the season well underway could Richardson's camp proceed to initiate some contract dialogue with team management?
There is no denying that Richardson has become the Alouettes most popular player among the team's fans as there is an increase of number 18 jerseys in the stands at home games.
Richardson had a fantastic 2011 season as he led all receivers with 1,777 yards. Entering this year, there was talk of a potential 2,000 receiving yards season. Historically, with the exception of last year, the man they call Optimus Prime is usually a slow starter out of the blocks. As is the case this year Richardson sits in 17th place in receiving yards. But by the midpoint of the season he is back to his way of dominating opposing secondaries.
In-terms of comparison dollars that could be used as a measuring stick during these talks. Richardson could look at Hamilton Tiger-Cats star signing Andy Fantuz. According to the various reports, Fantuz's base salary is $180,000 plus bonus incentives.
In the last four years, statistically, Richardson has had a better output than Fantuz. But could this translate into big dollar contract from the Alouettes towards him? The Alouettes have already locked up Brian Bratton, S.J. Green, and Brandon London.
But what could be their next move with Richardson? In the past they have allowed the likes of Chris Armstrong and Jermaine Copeland who were in the prime of their careers to leave for bigger offers. Could this happen again?
Richardson loves the city of Montreal, and has won over the fans heart with his great play. If the unthinkable were to happen of Richardson leaving the organization, there could be ramifications on and off the field.
The Alouettes tend to keep negotiations very quiet, but as the weeks progress it would fascinating to see how this plays out.
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