Neg list trade with Bombers lands Argos intriguing quarterback

The Argo quarterback currently impressing at Toronto Argonaut training camp was acquired in a neg list trade with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

Toronto announced the signing of quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson on May 22, days before training camp opened. Behind the scenes, general manager Jim Popp orchestrated a neg list swap for the 28-year-old pivot, sending Ball State defensive back Eric Patterson to Winnipeg for the rights to Bethel-Thompson.

The six-foot-four, 230-pound passer bounced around several NFL teams (49ers, Dolphins, Vikings, Patriots and Eagles) before inking a practice roster deal with Winnipeg last year. He was released by the Bombers but then re-added to the team’s neg list. He played in the start up Spring League then had had a tryout with the New York Jets in May, but did not receive a contract offer. That led to the trade and Bethel-Thompson’s signing in Toronto.

Bethel-Thompson, who spent one year at UCLA and transferred to Sacramento State (same university as veteran Argos quarterback Ricky Ray), has filled out physically. He’s looked polished, smooth and impressed in Argos training camp so far.