Saskatchewan Roughriders Finalize Contract with A.J. Ouellette After Extended Talks
In a move that concludes weeks of anticipation, the Saskatchewan Roughriders have officially re-signed running back A.J. Ouellette to a one-year contract extension. The agreement was announced on Sunday, mere hours before the Canadian Football League's free agent communication window opened, preventing Ouellette from fielding offers from other teams.
Negotiation Process Reveals Business Realities of Professional Sports
Ouellette, who addressed media in Regina on Monday, acknowledged that he contemplated entering the free agent window to gain leverage but ultimately chose to remain with the Roughriders. "We worked into a respectful offer," Ouellette stated. "And I felt like I was happy last year from what I made, and we're pretty much at the same number."
The 30-year-old running back received an initial offer from the Roughriders following their Grey Cup victory in November over the Montreal Alouettes, but found the terms unsatisfactory. "It's a business, right," Ouellette explained, reflecting on the negotiation dynamics. "The first number is never going to work for anyone."
Emotional and Strategic Considerations in Contract Discussions
Ouellette described the emotional rollercoaster of contract talks, noting his immediate reaction to the initial offer. "I do have a lot of emotions when it comes to playing and it comes out quick when business is involved too," he said. "So you get that first offer and you kind of just go hit a 20-minute workout session to kind of get your anger out."
The veteran player emphasized the importance of perspective during negotiations, consulting with teammates like quarterback Trevor Harris and community members to determine fair value. "But then you have to sit down and be like, 'It is a business. He's trying to get a running back for as cheap as he can.'"
Career Performance and Personal Factors Influence Decision
Ouellette's decision to re-sign comes after a standout 2025 season where he recorded 1,222 rushing yards and led the Roughriders with nine touchdowns. His contributions were particularly crucial in the playoffs, adding 113 rushing yards in the West final and 83 yards plus a touchdown in the Grey Cup victory.
Personal considerations also played a role in the negotiation timeline. Ouellette is expecting a child in March with his girlfriend, adding family planning to his contract deliberations. "Wanting to be back, I could have taken the first offer and just said, 'Yep, we're here. No more stress,'" he noted. "But trying to think about how it impacts the family."
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Forward
The running back's journey with Saskatchewan has seen both challenges and triumphs. After signing a two-year deal in 2024 free agency, Ouellette battled injuries during his first season before undergoing a remarkable transformation in 2025. His dedication was evident when he shared photos showing a 25-pound weight loss, generating significant online buzz among fans.
"You don't get to play that long and I feel like for my career, this is where it needs to be right now," Ouellette concluded, expressing satisfaction with the finalized agreement that took several months to reach.
The contract extension ensures continuity for the Roughriders' backfield as they prepare for the upcoming CFL season, retaining a key offensive weapon who proved instrumental in their championship run.
