The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are using their final pre-season game as an opportunity to evaluate younger and less experienced players rather than relying on their established starters.

In Friday’s exhibition matchup against the BC Lions at Princess Auto Stadium, the Bombers will rest most of their veteran core, including quarterback Zach Collaros and key offensive and defensive contributors such as Brady Oliveira, Nic Demski, Willie Jefferson, and Jake Ceresna.

The decision reflects a broader focus on managing player workload following a demanding training camp and ensuring key starters are rested and ready for the regular season opener.

Head coach Mike O’Shea explained that the approach is intended both to prevent fatigue and to allow players who are competing for roster spots to receive meaningful game action.

On offence, only a small number of returning starters will dress, including offensive linemen Gabe Wallace and Kendall Randolph, as well as receiver Joey Corcoran.Veteran kicker Sergio Castillo will also see action on special teams.

Defensively, the lineup is expected to be heavily composed of rookies and depth players, with athletes such as Warren Burrell, Major Williams, Jaiden Woodbey, Cam Allen, Nick Hallett, and Jake Kelly getting extended opportunities.At quarterback, the absence of Collaros opens the door for Taylor Elgersma and Bryce Perkins to continue their competition for the backup role.Elgersma, who showed flashes but also threw interceptions in his first pre-season outing, emphasized growth and learning as his priorities.

The game serves as the final chance for several players to make an impression before final roster cuts are made over the weekend ahead of the CFL regular season.