Saskatchewan Roughriders Shift Focus to 2026 Season at CFL Combine
The Canadian Football League's top prospects are currently under intense scrutiny at the CFL combine in Edmonton, with the draft scheduled for next month. For the Saskatchewan Roughriders, who hosted the event last year in Regina, this represents a final opportunity to assess players in person after months of reviewing game film and live performances.
Evaluating Beyond the Field
As the Roughriders finalize their draft rankings ahead of the April 28 selection day, General Manager Jeremy O'Day is monitoring more than just on-field drills and formal interviews. He's paying close attention to how players conduct themselves when they think nobody is watching.
"In most cases, we've watched the player before we get to the combine," O'Day explained. "The combine serves as either reassurance or, in some instances, a detriment if a player doesn't test well or interview effectively. While game tape carries significant weight, if testing results fall below professional standards, that can alter our perspective."
O'Day emphasized that interviews help determine whether a player will fit into the team's culture. "Getting to know the player extends beyond the formal interview," he noted. "We observe how they behave on the field, how they carry themselves in the hotel, and various other interactions that provide deeper insight into their character."
Transitioning from Celebration to Preparation
While the Roughriders have spent the off-season celebrating their Grey Cup victory across Saskatchewan, the football operations staff has already shifted focus following a busy free agency period that brought new faces to the team while saying goodbye to others.
"It presents a unique challenge," O'Day admitted. "Everyone worked tremendously hard to earn that trophy, and our fans, community, and province deserve to celebrate it. We're navigating the balance between honoring last year's achievement while concentrating on the future. The Grey Cup has been everywhere you look, and while it never gets old seeing it at events, in this role, you must quickly turn the page and focus on 2026."
Addressing Roster Needs and Position Battles
The Roughriders enter the draft without many major roster gaps, but several training camp competitions will emerge when the team begins practices in Saskatoon on May 10. One notable battle will be for the backup quarterback position.
With Trevor Harris returning as starting quarterback after signing a one-year extension, Jack Coan appears positioned to become the primary backup following the departure of last year's backup Jake Maier in free agency. This transition highlights the team's ongoing efforts to build depth and maintain competitiveness as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The combine evaluations, character assessments, and strategic planning all contribute to Saskatchewan's comprehensive approach to building a roster capable of contending in the 2026 CFL season, demonstrating the organization's commitment to sustained success beyond their recent championship achievement.
