The Saskatchewan Roughriders are now entering a challenging period following their preseason victory. The team defeated the Winnipeg Blue Bombers 31-27 in Saskatoon on Saturday, but they will not play again for three weeks until their season opener against the B.C. Lions on June 13.
Schedule Challenges and Roster Decisions
The Roughriders, as reigning Grey Cup champions, face an unusual schedule gap. The team must finalize its roster by June 1, yet no game occurs before that deadline. This creates uncertainty for players awaiting their first paycheques, which only come after regular-season games. Coaches are also evaluating key positions, including kicker, punter, long snapper, backup quarterback, receiver, and defensive end.
Key Position Battles
Leading candidates for various roles include Jonathan Kim, Oscar Chapman, Reed Hughes, Brayden Schager, Mathew Sexton, and Desmond Evans. Schager, a rookie quarterback, could potentially unseat third-year veteran Jack Coan as the backup to starter Trevor Harris. Head coach Corey Mace indicated that protecting an extra quarterback is a possibility, though the decision will consider the entire roster.
“We have in the past,” Mace said. “Ultimately we gotta look at totality (of the roster). We’re a completely different team. There’s a lot of great players outside of that (quarterback) position group. As always, we’ll sit down as a staff, we’ll sit with the front office and you make the right decision for the team.”
Financial and Logistical Concerns
Players receive weekly stipends during training camp but only earn paycheques after regular-season games. The bye week means no pay, adding financial strain. The team returned to Regina for final camp workouts at Mosaic Stadium. An email to media indicated that after announcing cuts on June 1, no one would be available for a week to discuss moves, though fans may desire explanations.
The Roughriders have been active in the province since winning the Grey Cup, taking the trophy to various communities. This engagement contrasts with the upcoming quiet period before the season opener.
