Saskatchewan Roughriders Face Critical Roster Gaps Ahead of CFL Free Agency
The Saskatchewan Roughriders, fresh off their 2025 Grey Cup championship victory, are entering a pivotal period as they prepare for the Canadian Football League's free agency window opening on February 10. With the salary cap increasing to $6.28 million for the 2026 season, the team must strategically address several significant holes in their roster to defend their title effectively.
Current Roster Landscape and Off-Season Moves
Following their championship win, the Roughriders faced a substantial challenge with 44 pending free agents. The organization has already taken proactive steps by re-signing more than 15 of these players. However, notable departures have created vacancies that demand attention. The team released receivers Dohnte Meyers and Shawn Bane Jr., while defensive lineman Micah Johnson and running back Ka'Deem Carey announced their retirements.
The seven-day free agency communication window, beginning Sunday, allows potential free agents to negotiate with interested CFL teams before official deals are signed on February 10. This period is crucial for the Roughriders as they seek to bolster their lineup.
Quarterback Position Analysis
Under Contract: Trevor Harris (American), Tommy Stevens (American), Jack Coan (American), Jordan McCloud (American)
Need: Potential backup quarterback
Potential Free Agents: Jake Maier (American)
Available Options: Taylor Powell (Tiger-Cats), Dustin Crum (Redblacks), Tre Ford (free agent), Matt Shiltz (Redblacks), McLeod Bethel-Thompson (Alouettes), Caleb Evans (Alouettes), Tyrie Adams (Redblacks), Chris Streveler (Blue Bombers)
Analysis: Trevor Harris returns as the undisputed starter after signing a one-year extension in December. Tommy Stevens, a short-yardage specialist, is also back on a two-year deal. The Roughriders re-signed Jack Coan this off-season and added rookie Jordan McCloud. Unless the team is comfortable with Coan as the primary backup, they might pursue Taylor Powell from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, who showed promise but appears available. Re-signing Jake Maier remains a viable option as the Roughriders aim to maintain continuity.
Running Back Position Analysis
Under Contract: Thomas Bertrand-Hudon, Marcus Major Jr. (American), Morgen Runge (fullback), Albert Awachie (fullback)
Need: Starting tailback
Potential Free Agents: A.J. Ouellette (American)
Available Options: Greg Bell (Tiger-Cats), William Stanback (Redblacks), Sean Thomas-Erlington (Alouettes)
Analysis: Bringing back A.J. Ouellette makes the most sense for the Roughriders, but until a deal is finalized, a significant hole exists in Saskatchewan's starting offence. If negotiations with Ouellette fall through, veterans like Greg Bell or William Stanback could provide alternatives. The team is also expected to add American rookies before training camp to deepen the position.
Receiver Position Analysis
Under Contract: KeeSean Johnson (American), Samuel Emilus, Kian Schaffer-Baker, Ajou Ajou, Daniel Wiebe, Dhel Duncan-Busby, D'Sean Mimbs, Collin Brunstein (American), Siaosi Mariner (American), Malik Knowles (American), Ali Jennings III (American)
The receiver corps appears relatively stable with multiple players under contract, but the releases of Meyers and Bane Jr. indicate potential for strategic additions to enhance depth and performance.
As the Roughriders navigate free agency, their ability to fill these critical gaps will be essential for maintaining their championship-calibre team. The coming weeks will reveal whether they can secure key players to complement their existing talent and build a roster capable of another Grey Cup run.
