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SASKATOON, Sask. – Tonight (June 4), the Canadian Football League (CFL) officially returns with the Ottawa REDBLACKS and Saskatchewan Roughriders set to kickoff the 2025 campaign at Mosaic Stadium in Regina. For hundreds of athletes, coaches, and operations staff, Thursday’s game marks the beginning of another quest for the Grey Cup, with 12 Huskie alumni represented among those making a living at the next level. Of the 12 University of Saskatchewan (USask) alumni in the CFL, 10 appear on active rosters and two have taken their passion for the game into football operations.
The 2025 Huskie Football team will also feature two future stars in Seth Hundeby and Daniel Wiebe, who after being drafted to the Saskatchewan Roughriders, will each return to USask for their final year of eligibility.
In total 174 former U SPORTS student-athletes and 27 different programs are represented on Week 1 rosters. With 10 active alumni, the Huskies rank 8th, trailing Montreal and Laval with 14, Calgary with 12, and Alberta, Guelph, Laurier and UBC with 11.
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats lead the way when it comes to Canadian talent with 23 U SPORTS alumni featured in the Hammer. The Edmonton Elk and Saskatchewan Roughriders rank second with 22 followed by the Calgary Stampeders (21), Montreal Allouettes (19), Ottawa REDBLACKS (18), Winnipeg Blue Bombers (18), BC Lions (16), and Toronto Argonauts (15).
FULL U SPORTS/CFL ROSTER LIST
*** Stats courtesy of McGill Sports Information
The next generation of CFL stars can be seen for the first time on August 20, when the Saskatchewan Huskies take the field at Griffiths Stadium for an exhibition game against the UBC Thunderbirds. The Dogs will then officially open up the 2025 regular season on the road in Edmonton, where they will look to pick up a Week 1 win against the Alberta Golden Bears. Regular season home action then opens up with the T-Birds returning to Saskatoon in Week 2 for Huskie Homecoming on Friday, September 4, 2025. Season tickets are on sale now at HuskieTickets.com.
See below for details on each of the 13 Huskie alumni and a breakdown of the former U SPORTS athletes currently in the CFL.
Former Huskies currently listed on 2025 CFL rosters (10)
Nelson Lokombo
Saskatchewan Roughriders
Nick Wiebe
Saskatchewan Roughriders
Noah Zerr
Saskatchewan Roughriders
Nathan Cherry
BC Lions
Riley Pickett
BC Lions
George Idoko
Calgary Stampeders
Charlie Ringland
Ottawa REDBLACKS
Josh Hagerty
Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Pat Neufeld
Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Lane Novak
Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Former Huskies Working in the CFL (2)
Nathan Schellenberg
Saskatchewan Roughriders (Video & Analytics)
Mike Woytowich
Saskatchewan Roughriders (Video & Analytics)
#21 Nelson Lokombo, Defensive Back, Saskatchewan Roughriders
As a Huskie (2017-19)
In his three seasons at USask, Nelson Lokombo emerged as a leader for the Huskie defence. After a standout rookie campaign which saw the defensive back appear in every contest, Lokombo continued his stellar play in 2018, totaling 33 tackles, four interceptions, and 10 passes defended while helping the Huskies to a Hardy Cup victory. In 2019 the product of Abbotsford, BC established himself as one of the best players in the nation, recording 34 tackles, three sacks, five interceptions, nine passes defended, and a forced fumble on his way to being named the Canada West and U SPORTS Defensive Player of the Year. Following of his career in green and white, Lokombo finished among the Top 10 in program history for passes defended and interception return yards.
In the CFL
In the 2021 CFL draft, Nelson Lokombo was selected 2nd overall by the Saskatchewan Roughriders, becoming the highest-drafted Huskie since 2012 when Ben Heenan was selected with the 1st overall pick. Just days after being drafted Lokombo’s CFL career was put on hold after he suffered a torn Achilles which sidelined him for his entire rookie season. Since then he has played in 41 games, and recorded 62 defensive tackles, six special teams tackles, two forced fumbles, and a sack. In January 2025 he signed a extension to return to the Riders.
#43 Nick Wiebe, Linebacker, Saskatchewan Roughriders
As a Huskie (2021-23)
The second former Canada West Defensive Player of the Year on this list, Nick Wiebe closed out an impressive career with the Huskies in 2023. The linebacker from Calgary, Alberta was a dominant force in the middle of the green and white defence, totaling 61.5 tackles to lead the conference and become the 9th Defensive Player of the Year in program history. He was also named a unanimous conference All-Star and earned a U SPORTS First Team All-Canadian nod. In his three seasons with the Huskies, Wiebe recorded six tackles for a loss, five sacks, three forced fumbles, and 162 total tackles, the 6th most in program history.
Prior to his career with the Huskies, Wiebe spent three seasons with the University of Oregon, utilizing a redshirt in 2018 and 2019. During the 2020 season, Wiebe played in three games for the Ducks, which included appearances in the Pac-12 Championship game and the Fiesta Bowl, and recorded eight total tackles. He was also named the 2020 Oregon Special Teams Player of the Year.
In the CFL
Nick Wiebe was selected 12th overall in the 2024 draft by the Saskatchewan Roughriders, becoming the 25th Huskie selected by the Riders in the modern draft era. Similairly to his Rider teammate Nelson Lokombo, the start of Wiebe’s CFL career was also delayed due to injury. The linebacker spent the majority of the 2024 season on the six game injured list, appearing in just one contest.
#68 Noah Zerr, Offensive Line, Saskatchewan Roughriders
As a Huskie (2016-21)
Noah Zerr spent four seasons with the Huskies, proving to be one of the most reliable offensive linemen in the conference throughout his career. Joining the Huskies from Langenberg, Saskatchewan, Zerr started every season he played and finished his career on a high, earning a 2021 Canada West All-Star nod and being named a First Team All-Canadian after an exceptional season. Lining up at left tackle, Zerr played a key role in a unit that was consistently one of the most dominant groups in the nation. In 2019, the Huskies averaged a conference-best 32.1 points per game before returning to the top in 2021 averaging 36.2 points. On their way to a Vanier Cup appearance in 2021, Zerr and the Huskie offensive line allowed just 4 sacks during the regular season.
In the CFL
Selected 12th overall by the BC Lions in the 2022 CFL draft, Zerr suited up for four games in his rookie season before joining the Hamilton Tiger-Cats for the 2023 season. After appearing in three games for the Tiger-Cats the 6-foot-7 330 lbs lineman was on the move again, returning to his home province to sign with the Roughriders in December of 2023. After appearing in 10 games with the Riders in 2024, Zerr returned to the team after an initial release and is now features on the Riders practice roster to begin the season.
#91 Nathan Cherry, Defensive Line, BC Lions
As a Huskie (2016-21)
Suiting up for the Huskies for four seasons, Nathan Cherry was a key member of a dominant defensive line that produced several future CFL players. A local athlete who joined the Huskies from Aden Bowman Collegiate in Saskatoon, Cherry totaled 45 tackles, 12.5 tackles for a loss, and 10 sacks in 38 games in green and white. His best season came in 2021, when the 6-foot-3 245 lbs defensive lineman brought down opponents behind the line of scrimmage on eight occasions, six of which were sacks. Cherry contributed to a sensational season defensively for the Huskies which saw 17 sacks and a conference-best 113 rushing yards allowed per game on the way to Hardy Cup and Uteck Bowl victories.
In the CFL
In the 2022 CFL draft Cherry was one of three Huskies selected by the BC Lions, and the first to come off the board at 3rd overall. Appearing in all but one game in his rookie season, Cherry recorded seven defensive tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble while helping the Lions to a 12-6 record and 2nd-place in the West. Looking to build off a successful rookie campaign, Cherry was off to a fantastic start in 2023 as part of a historic BC defensive line with seven tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble in 10 games before suffering an ACL injury in Week 11 at Saskatchewan. Despite an offseason of rehab the defensive lineman was unable to return in 2024, appearing in just one game and spending the majority of the season on the six game injured list.
#45 Riley Pickett, Long Snapper, BC Lions
As a Huskie (2018-21)
Another defensive lineman who excelled in green and white, Riley Pickett spent three seasons with the Huskies, earning a Canada West All-Star nod in 2021. In 30 career games, the local product from Centennial Collegiate recorded 85 total tackles, 21 tackles for a loss, 14 sacks, six passes defended, and a pair of forced fumbles in a sensational career. Another member of the dominant 2021 defensive line, Pickett had arguably his best season to close out his career amassing 9.5 tackles for a loss and six sacks in nine games. In the 2021 Uteck Bowl, the 6-foot-4 250 lbs lineman recorded a pair of sacks and six tackles in a 14-10 Huskie victory.
Before Pickett wore green and white he was a member of the Saskatoon Hilltops of the CJFL for three seasons where he recorded 31.5 total tackles, 10 sacks, and two forced fumbles as part of three consecutive national championship teams.
In the CFL
The third Huskie to be selected by the BC Lions in the 2022 CFL draft, Riley Pickett was taken in the 5th round, 41st overall. After appearing in 10 games his rookie season, 2023 marked a new experience for Pickett in his CFL career as he transitioned to long snapper after being drafted as a defensive lineman. Pickett was a part of one of the league’s best special teams units in 2023, with kicker Sean Whyte finishing the season first in field goal percentage (94.3) while punter Stefan Flintoft averaged 47.8 yards per punt.
#72 George Idoko, Defensive Line, Calgary Stampeders
As a Huskie (2019-23)
A dynamic rusher for the Huskies, George Idoko experienced a fantastic four years in green and white. Appearing in 40 career games, the product of Calgary improved every season he took the field, totaling 43 tackles, four tackles for a loss, four sacks, two forced fumbles, a defended pass, and a blocked kick. The 6-foot-3 245 lbs defensive lineman’s time with the Huskies culminated in the most productive season of his career in 2023 where he recorded 17 tackles, three tackles for a loss, and three sacks in nine games earning a Canada West All-Star nod and being honoured as a U SPORTS Second Team All-Canadian.
In the CFL
Idoko returned home for for his CFL career after being selected by the Calgary Stampeders in the 3rd round, 28th overall in the 2024 CFL draft. After beginning his pro career on the practice squad, the defensive lineman would go on to appear in 16 games, recording one defensive tackle and four on special teams.
#39 Charlie Ringland, Defensive Back, Ottawa REDBLACKS
As a Huskie (2018-22)
A four-year starter at defensive back for the Huskies, Charlie Ringland made an immediate impact in green and white and produced a fantastic career. A product of Winnipeg, Ringland was at home against Canada Wet competition from the beginning of his career, recording 21 tackles, three passes defended, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery while appearing in all 11 games his freshman season and being named the team rookie of the year. He would return with two impressive seasons before earning the first conference All-Star selection of his career and being named a U SPORTS Second Team All-Canadian in 2022. Ringland finished his Huskie career as a two-time Hardy Cup and Uteck Bowl champion with 97 total tackles, 15 passes defended, four interceptions, three forced fumbles, two TFLs, and a sack.
In the CFL
In the 2023 CFL Draft Ringland became the third Huskie to be taken after he was selected 43rd overall in the 5th round by the BC Lions. Prior to the draft Ringland had been a standout player at the CFL Combine before an ACL injury cut his showcase short and forced him to miss his rookie season. After beginning the 2024 season on the Lion’s practice squad, Ringland appeared in nine games recording a special teams tackle. Last month, after being released from the BC Lions, Ringland signed with the Ottawa REDBLACKS.
#26 Josh Hagerty, Defensive Back, Winnipeg Blue Bombers
As a Huskie (2018-19)
Hagerty experienced a highly successful career with the Huskies despite playing just two seasons in green & white. The product of Regina took the field for 19 games, totaling 53 total tackles, 4 interceptions, nine passes defended, and a forced fumble. His best season came his rookie year, where the Campbell Collegiate graduate helped the Huskies earn a Hardy Cup Title and Mitchell Bowl appearance after appearing in 11 games and recording 31 tackles and three interceptions. Unfourtuantely, Hagerty was unable to compete his senior season due to COVID-19 and would opt to enter the 2021 CFL draft.
In the CFL
A sixth round pick in the 2021 draft, Hagerty was selected by the Toronto Argonauts 47th overall. After making his debut in 2021 Hagertuystarted 14 games is rookie season, recording 8 defensive tackles and six on special teams. The following year, Hagerty became the latest Huskie to claim a CFL ring as the Argos captured the 109th Grey Cup. After appearing in three games 2023, Hagerty made the move to Edmonton where he say action in 15 contests, recording 10 special teams tackles. In February 2025, he then joined his third club, signing a one-year contract with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
#52 Patrick Neufeld, Offensive Line, Winnipeg Blue Bombers
As a Huskie (2006-10)
A former Canada West All-Star and First Team All-Canadian, Patrick Neufeld spent five seasons with the Huskies. During his career in green and white, the product of Regina helped the Huskies to the Hardy Cup and Mitchell Bowl in 2006 followed by four straight playoff appearances which included a second Canada West Championship appearance in 2009.
In the CFL
Neufeld was selected in the 5th round, 33rd overall by his hometown team, the Saskatchewan Roughriders, in the 2010 draft. Since being drafted, Neufeld has spent 12 seasons in the CFL and appeared in over 150 games. After being selected by the Riders, he spent three seasons in Regina before being sent to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers with a fourth-round pick in exchange for Alex Hall and a second-round selection. Neufeld has been a staple on the Blue Bombers offensive line ever since. A two-time Grey Cup Champion (2020, 2021), Neufeld has experienced the best years of his career recently. The right guard failed to miss a game betrween 2021 and 2023, leading to three consecutive CFL All-Star selections. In 2024, Neufeld once again helped the Bombers to the top of the CFL’s West Division after making way for Zach Collaros to finish the season second in passing yards (4,336) and Brady Oliveira to once again first in rushing yards (1,353).
Neufeld has also made an impact off the field and in 2021 was honoured with Winnipeg’s ‘Heart of a Legend Award’ which is presented to the player who shows ‘outstanding sportsmanship and dedication to the CFL and the community.’
#59 Lane Novak, Linebacker, Winnipeg Blue Bombers
As a Huskie (2021-24)
A four year starter in green & white, Lane Novak made an immediate impact upon joining the Huskies. A product of Balgonie, Saskatchewan, the linebacker out of Greenall High school starterd10 games his rookie season, recording 41 total and 37 solo tackles in addition to two interceptions, a sack, and fumble recovery while helping the Huskies to both Hardy Cup and Uteck Bowl Titles. The following season he would help the Dogs to a second consecutive Vanier Cup appearance with a 12 games, 64 total tackle season. Novak closed the book on his Huskie career after making one more trip to the Hardy Cup in 2024, and will head to the CFL with one of the more impressive USask resumes in program history. Appearing several times in the Huskie record books, Novak is 4th all-time in total tackles (187), 6th in solo tackles (147), and 4th in assisted tackles (80).
In the CFL
Lane Novak was selected 45th overall in the 2025 CFL draft by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, becoming just the 5th Huskie selected by the Bombers in the modern draft era. Novak also becomes one of the few U SPORTS athletes drafted to begin his professional career on an active roster.
Nathan Schellenberg, Video & Analytics, Saskatchewan Roughriders
As a Huskie (1995-96)
Nathan Schellenberg joined the Huskies in 1995 after briefly attending Idaho State. Initially a member of both the Huskie football and basketball teams, Schellenberg moved exclusively to football in 1996 as a receiver. That season he was part of a dominant Huskie team which went 7-1 in the regular season before claiming a Hardy Cup and the program’s second Vanier Cup Championship. Schellenberg would later serve as an Assistant Coach for the Huskie men’s basketball team from 2002 to 2014, helping the program capture it’s lone national championship in 2010.
In the CFL
Schellenberg’s time with the Roughriders began in 2015 when he served as a Training Camp Assistant. After holding this role for four seasons he remained with the organization as a Football Research and Development Assistant on a seasonal basis. Shortly after the 2021 season, he was hired as a full-time Video and Analytics Co-Coordinator.
Mike Woytowich, Video & Analytics, Saskatchewan Roughriders
As a Huskie (2018-21)
Mike Woytowich, a current student at USask completing a degree in Kinesiology, started his video and analytics career with the Huskies in 2018 serving as the Head Video Coordinator. In his first season with the Huskies, Woytowich was part of the 2018 Hardy Cup Championship team. He would serve as the Head Video Coordinator for three seasons.
In the CFL
Woytowich’s time with the Roughriders began in 2019 when he interned with the team during training camp. Two years later he returned to the CFL, this time with the Edmonton Elks, serving as the team’s Head Video Coordinator. Now, the 2024 season will mark Woytowich’s third season back with the Roughriders after returning to the team in 2022.
Craig Reynolds, President & CEO, Saskatchewan Roughriders
Craig Reynolds is a graduate of the Edwards School of Business, having received a Bachelor of Commerce and Masters in Professional Accounting from USask. In 2009 he joined the Roughriders as the organization’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) before being promoted to Senior Vice-President and CFO three years later. In 2015, he was named President and CEO and currently represents the Riders on the CFL’s Board of Governors as an Alternate Governor. Reynolds is a devoted member of the Saskatchewan community and an avid fan of Huskie Football.
U SPORTS Alumni Breakdown by Program
14 – Montreal Carabins
14 – Laval Rouge et Or
12 – Calgary Dinos
11 – Alberta Golden Bears
11 – Guelph Gryphons
11 – Laurier Golden Hawks
11 – UBC Thunderbirds
10 – Saskatchewan Huskies
9 – Western Mustangs
8 – Regina Rams
6 – Carleton Ravens
5 – McMaster Marauders
5 – Ottawa Gee-Gees
5 – Queen’s Gaels
5 – Saint Mary’s Huskies
5 – Waterloo Warriors
4 – Concordia Stingers
4 – Manitoba Bisons
4 – Sherbrooke Vert et Or
4 – Windsor Lancers
3 – Acadia Axemen
3 – McGill Redbirds
3 – StFX X-Men
2 – Mount Allison Mounties
2 – UofT Varsity Blues
2 – York Lions
1 – Bishop’s Gaiters
Breakdown by CFL Team
23 – Hamilton Tiger-Cats
22 – Edmonton Elk
22 – Saskatchewan Roughriders
21 – Calgary Stampeders
19 – Montreal Allouettes
18 – Ottawa REDBLACKS
18 – Winnipeg Blue Bombers
16 – BC Lions
15 – Toronto Argonauts
Breakdown by Position
36 – Defensive Backs
35 – Offensive Linemen
27 – Linebackers
25 – Defensive Linemen
23 – Receivers
10 – Running Backs
7 – Long Snappers
5 – Kickers/Punters
3 – Fullbacks
2 – Tight Ends
1 – Quarterback