The offseason is finally over for the Saskatchewan Roughriders as they begin their pursuit of history, looking to become the first team in franchise history to win back-to-back Grey Cup championships.

Offence Brings Back Championship Foundation

There have been few changes on offence for the Green and White. Shortly after the Grey Cup victory, quarterback Trevor Harris announced he would return to Saskatchewan in hopes of adding another championship ring to his resume.

Not long after, receivers Samuel Emilus, Kian Schaffer-Baker, and KeeSean Johnson all agreed to new contracts to remain with the club. Running back AJ Ouellette also signed a new deal on the eve of free agency.

Up front, Saskatchewan brings back the offensive line that helped deliver a Grey Cup championship, led by right tackle Jermarcus Hardrick and centre Logan Ferland.

The lone new starter on offence is wide receiver Jaylen Johnson, who signed with Saskatchewan after spending last season with the Los Angeles Chargers, splitting time between the practice squad and active roster.

At quarterback, Jack Coan replaces Jake Maier as the team’s backup, while Tommy Stevens returns in his short-yardage role.

Defence Adjusts to Key Departures

There will be more turnover on the defensive side of the ball, particularly among the front seven.

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One key piece that remains is middle linebacker Jameer Thurman, who was Saskatchewan’s top defensive player in 2025 and earned All-CFL honours.

With Micah Johnson retiring, the Roughriders will look to players such as Caleb Sanders and 2025 first-round pick Ali Saad to take on larger roles along the defensive line. Former All-CFL selection Mike Rose also returns to the lineup.

The edge rush will have a different look in 2026. Following Malik Carney’s departure to Edmonton, Saskatchewan signed former Winnipeg Blue Bomber James Vaughters to help fill the void. Vaughters matched a career-high with six sacks last season and has recorded 27 sacks over five seasons with Winnipeg and the Calgary Stampeders.

On the opposite side, Desmond Evans is expected to make his first start for Saskatchewan. The former North Carolina Tar Heel joined the Green and White after spending training camp last year with the Tennessee Titans.

Although Thurman remains in the middle, the Roughriders will have new faces at outside linebacker.

After a breakout season, AJ Allen left Saskatchewan to sign with the Ottawa Redblacks. Stepping into his spot is Josh Woods, who joined the Roughriders after recording a career-high 62 defensive tackles with the BC Lions last season.

The secondary will also feature a change at strongside linebacker. Following CJ Reavis’ departure to Ottawa, Antoine Brooks Jr. takes over the starting role. Brooks Jr. recorded two interceptions and two sacks in nine games during the 2025 season.

The rest of Saskatchewan’s defensive backfield remains intact, with Rolan Milligan, Tevaughn Campbell, Marcus Sayles, Demarcus Fields, and Nelson Lokombo all returning.

Special Teams Welcomes New Contributors

Special teams will also feature several new faces following the departure of some longtime members of the organization.

Alex Hale will begin the season as Saskatchewan’s kicker, replacing Brett Lauther. The Australian played collegiately at Oklahoma State before spending time with the Green Bay Packers.

The Roughriders will also have another Australian on the roster, as Oscar Chapman takes over punting duties.

At returner, James Letcher Jr. replaces Mario Alford. Letcher Jr. helped the Montreal Alouettes capture the Grey Cup in 2023 and returned a kickoff for a touchdown in the East Final during that championship run.

Meanwhile, longtime Roughrider Jorgen Hus was able to end his career with a Grey Cup victory. Aaron Crawford, who spent the previous five seasons with Calgary, will take over long-snapping duties.

The Roughriders open the 2026 season Saturday with a home matchup against the BC Lions.

Prior to kickoff, the club will unveil its 2025 Grey Cup championship banner.