Roughriders have proven offensive lines don’t need to be built through the draft-Taylor Shire

In the upcoming CFL Draft, Roughriders GM Jeremy O’Day aims to acquire Canadian talent, though not specifically focusing on bolstering the offensive line, contrary to the traditional strategy of many teams in the league.

Since assuming his role in 2019, O’Day, himself a former offensive lineman, has prioritized other positions over offensive linemen in the early rounds of the draft, with only one such selection in the first round during his tenure. This trend is likely to continue in the 2024 draft.

However, this approach isn’t necessarily negative. Instead of relying solely on draft picks to build their offensive line, the Roughriders have secured two Canadian starters through free agency and developed another through a territorial junior program. With only two drafted offensive linemen in the past five years, Saskatchewan still maintains solid national depth in this position, which will serve them well as they approach training camp.

While there are vacancies to fill, including the retirement of Logan Bandy and the departure of Evan Johnson, the team is in a decent position with seven Canadian offensive linemen on the roster heading into the draft. Typically, the team starts three Canadians in the interior offensive line, with Americans occupying the tackle spots.

The addition of Jermarcus Hardrick in free agency solidifies one tackle position, with the other likely to be contested during training camp among a group of American players.

There’s also the possibility of Philip Blake starting at tackle, which would not only enhance the team’s ratio of starting Canadians but also provide opportunities for younger players on the depth chart. With key players like Peter Godber and Logan Ferland expected to start, others like Ryan Sceviour, Noah Zerr, Zack Fry, and Evan Floren will compete for backup positions.

Although there will be talented offensive linemen available when the Roughriders make their pick at No. 3, addressing this position isn’t necessarily their top priority this year.

They have a pipeline of talent and could opt to add depth elsewhere to support former first-round picks. This aligns with O’Day’s past draft strategies, where he focused on positions other than offensive line in the early rounds.