Saskatchewan Roughriders fan-favourite running back AJ Oullette is ready to run-it-back for another year in Regina.

The team announced a one-year extension for Oullette on Sunday just before the CFL’s unofficial start to free agency, securing a key piece on the field, in the locker room, and in the community for the Roughriders who are looking to defend their Grey Cup win in 2026.

The place to be 💚 pic.twitter.com/DugoNtF2W9


— Saskatchewan Roughriders (@sskroughriders) February 2, 2026

Oullette was a force all season for the champion Roughriders, finishing second in league rushing at 1,222 yards, while leading the Roughriders in touchdowns scored with nine. His strong season was encapsulated in the Grey Cup against Montreal, Oullette carrying the ball 17 times for 83 yards and a touchdown in the 25-17 win. 

The Covington, Ohio, native Oullette has been in the CFL since 2019 when he signed with Toronto. He came to Saskatchewan as a free agent in 2024 and has loved every minute of it, his goose-hunting partner and Roughriders centre Logan Ferland sharing a tidbit with the newsroom that Oullette, “didn’t know you could find Ohio” right here in the prairie province.

Speaking on his contract Monday in Regina, Oullette’s connection to Saskatchewan was ultimately a big reason for him coming back.

“Just the way everything is ran here. The front office, supporting staff, you guys,” said Oullette gesturing to the media room. “It’s a true professional feel.”

The front office did their work to sell Oullette on another season in Saskatchewan, but perhaps even more valuable was the pitch from the people.

“Being able to just go out in the community and feel like you’re impacting someone’s life. I get stopped at Walmart and all that, and that five-minute conversation I would have with someone would make their whole month or year. It makes you feel good.”

Being able to just go out in the community and feel like you’re impacting someones life.

Hear more from AJ Ouellette as he spoke to the media earlier today.

📺 https://t.co/5GWdRrfBiz pic.twitter.com/7PUHlIPofR


— Saskatchewan Roughriders (@sskroughriders) February 3, 2026

Oulette was the Roughriders final signing before free agency, a re-signing list that also includes Mike Rose, and Demarcus Field as recent players putting pen to paper. On Monday the Roughriders also re-signed defenders Aubrey Miller Jr., and Benoit Marion, Saskatchewan also reportedly adding a pair of free agents in kick returner James Letcher Jr. and defensive end James Vaughters.

Just like any championship roster the Roughriders lost a few important players from their roster, especially on defense with linebacker A.J Allen and defensive back C.J Reavis signing with Ottawa, and defensive lineman Malik Carney inking a deal with Edmonton. On offense the Roughriders lost a pair of receivers, Joe Robustelli to Edmonton, and Tommy Nield to the rival Winnipeg Blue Bombers. 

Another player that won’t be returning for the Roughriders next season is longtime kicker Brett Lauther who was released to the free agent pool on Monday.

Lauther’s time with the Roughriders may be over, but he will be remembered as a fan-favourite for his clutch kicks over the years mixed in with community work, something he did just this past weekend competing alongside teammates and taking the win at the Roughrider Foundation Winter Classic.