AJ Ouellette Inks One-Year Deal to Stay with Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Saskatchewan Roughriders have secured a vital piece of their offensive backfield for the upcoming season, announcing that running back AJ Ouellette has signed a one-year contract extension. The deal ensures that the dynamic playmaker will remain in green and white for the 2026 Canadian Football League campaign, providing stability and proven talent to the team's ground game.
Key Contributor Returns to Rider Nation
Ouellette, who wears number 45 for the Roughriders, has established himself as a formidable force in the CFL since joining the team. His powerful running style and ability to break tackles have made him a fan favorite in Regina and a consistent threat to opposing defenses. The re-signing comes as welcome news for Rider Nation, which has come to rely on his hard-nosed contributions on the field.
During the 2024 season, Ouellette demonstrated his value in a memorable October matchup against the B.C. Lions at Mosaic Stadium. In that game, he showcased his signature physicality by delivering a punishing stiff arm to Lions defensive back Ronald Kent Jr., a moment that encapsulated his aggressive approach to the running back position.
What Ouellette Brings to the 2026 Roster
The one-year extension represents a strategic move by the Roughriders' management to maintain offensive continuity while evaluating their long-term roster construction. Ouellette's return provides several advantages:
- Experience and Leadership: As a veteran presence in the locker room, Ouellette can mentor younger players while setting the standard for professional preparation.
- Consistent Production: His track record of reliable yardage and touchdown capability gives the Roughriders a known quantity in their offensive scheme.
- Versatility: Beyond traditional rushing duties, Ouellette has proven capable in pass protection and as a receiving option out of the backfield.
This signing occurs during a period of roster evaluation for the Roughriders as they prepare for training camp and the preseason. Securing Ouellette's services eliminates one significant question mark from their offseason planning and allows the coaching staff to build offensive strategies around his skill set.
The Bigger Picture for Saskatchewan Football
For the Roughriders organization, retaining core players like Ouellette is crucial as they aim to improve upon recent seasons and make a push toward Grey Cup contention. The running back position remains fundamental to success in the Canadian game, where weather conditions and field dimensions often favor a strong ground attack.
Ouellette's commitment to Saskatchewan also speaks to the positive culture within the Roughriders' facility and the appeal of playing for one of the CFL's most passionate fan bases. As the team continues to shape its roster for the challenges ahead, having a proven commodity like Ouellette in the backfield provides a solid foundation for offensive coordinator Joe Paopao to build upon.
The financial terms of the one-year extension were not immediately disclosed, as is common with many CFL contracts. However, the agreement represents a mutual commitment between player and team as both parties look toward a successful 2026 campaign in the highly competitive West Division.
