http://www.cjad.com/blog/AlouettesNews/ ... D=10205608
CJAD Sports has learned the Als have signed backup runningback Brandon Whitaker, and that could signal Avon Cobourne will test the fates of CFL Free Agency.
Whitaker beats Cobourne to signing on the dotted line, in a potentially crowded competition at tailback come training camp. The Als have Emmanuel Marc and former NFL star Ahman Green already signed.
Cobourne's agent Tim Fleiszer, himself a former Alouette, has spoken confidently about his client's desire to stay in Montreal as well as of the team's interest.
But GM Jim Popp has never been shy about staring down star players to ensure they fit the harsh CFL salary cap world.
As first reported on CJAD, the Als are also close to a deal with linebacker Ramon Guzman, but he has yet to formally sign. His agent has told the Alouettes that he is coming back to the club in 2011. (Guzman is shown here flashing his Grey Cup ring from '09 alongside teammate Shea Emry when they were honoured at the Bell Centre by the Canadiens following the 2010 Grey Cup parade).
But don't expect Damon Duval back in a Montreal uniform. Sources around the league tell CJAD if there is a last minute signing by midnight it will be Cobourne, not Duval.

