Roughriders Face Critical Offseason with 45 Pending Free Agents After Grey Cup Victory
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Saskatchewan Roughriders fans are still celebrating the team’s 25-17 victory over the Montreal Alouettes in the 112th Grey Cup at Princess Auto Stadium in Winnipeg – their first championship title in 12 years – but a significant challenge looms as the team navigates a massive free agency period. The Riders have a staggering 45 players set to hit the open market, potentially reshaping the roster that achieved a 12-6 record in 2025 and a first-place finish in the West Division.
A Championship Season Built on Broad Contributions
The Roughriders’ 2025 success wasn’t built on a few star players, but rather a deep roster of contributors. General manager Jeremy O’Day and his front office now face the daunting task of retaining key personnel if they intend to “run it back,” as starting quarterback Trevor Harris desires for the 2026 season. The team’s performance – ranking second in both net offence and net defence, and tied for third in turnover differential – demonstrates the breadth of talent that will be sought after by other CFL teams.
Quarterback Carousel and Offensive Concerns
The most pressing concern revolves around the quarterback position. While Harris enjoyed a successful season, going 11-5 with 4,549 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions in 16 starts, he is among the 45 pending free agents. Joining him are backups Jake Maier, Jack Coan, and Tommy Stevens, creating uncertainty under center.
Beyond the quarterback room, the Riders must address potential departures across the offense. Leading rusher A.J. Ouellette, who amassed 1,222 yards on the ground, and top receiver KeeSean Johnson, with 1,159 receiving yards, are both set to become free agents. Other offensive players facing free agency include receivers Dohnte Meyers, Joe Robustelli, Shawn Bane Jr., Samuel Emilus, Kian Schaffer-Baker, Tommy Nield, and Mitch Picton, as well as offensive linemen Jermarcus Hardrick, Jacob Brammer, Trevon Tate, Sean McEwen, Philippe Gagnon, Braydon Noll, and Noah Zerr.
Defensive Depth Also at Risk
The defensive side of the ball isn’t immune to the impending free agency wave. Key defensive linemen like Malik Carney, Mike Rose, Shane Ray, Habakkuk Baldonado, Micah Johnson, Benoit Marion, Charbel Dabire, Lake Korte-Moore, and Caleb Sanders are all potential departures. Linebackers A.J. Allen, the team’s leading tackler with 91 tackles, C.J. Avery, and Aubrey Miller Jr. also face uncertain futures. In the secondary, Tevaughn Campbell, DaMarcus Fields, C.J. Reavis, Jayden Dalke, Kerfalla Exume, Jaxon Ford, and Nelson Lokombo are all set to test the free agent market.
Practice Roster Players Add to Free Agent Pool
Adding to the complexity, players who finished the season on the practice roster automatically become free agents. This includes running back Marcus Major Jr., receivers Siaosi Mariner and D’Sean Mimbs, offensive linemen Caleb Barajas, James Lucio, and Darius Washington, defensive linemen Sylvain Yondjouen, Chico Bennett Jr., Kendy Charles, and Deshawn Stevens, linebackers Tuasivi Nomura, Alphonzo Tuputala, and Kenten Effa, kicker Michael Hughes, and punter Joe Couch.
A Critical Offseason Ahead
The Roughriders’ impressive 2025 season culminated in a Grey Cup victory, but the team’s future success hinges on O’Day’s ability to navigate this unprecedented free agency period. Retaining key players will be paramount, but the Riders will also need to identify and develop new talent to maintain their competitive edge. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Saskatchewan can build a sustainable dynasty or if the 2025 championship will remain a singular triumph.
