SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDERS: 5 THINGS TO KNOW FOR 2024

As the 2024 CFL season draws near, CFL.ca is here to bring you up to speed with its 5 Things To Know series. Each installment delves into the key narratives surrounding every team this season, assessing offseason changes and providing insight into where each team may stand in 2024.

Amidst my immersion in preparations for the CFL Draft, I find myself reflecting on the recent drafting history of the Riders and the significant success stories that could spark their resurgence this summer and autumn.

While we anticipate the development of players like Nelson Lokombo and acknowledge the departures of notable names such as Cameron Judge and Dakoda Shepley due to the perpetual motion of CFL roster adjustments, there’s no denying the impact players like Samuel Emilus, Lake Korte-Moore, Brayden Lenius, and potentially 2023 second-round pick Jaxon Ford could have.

With Craig Dickenson moving on to new opportunities alongside his brother Dave in Calgary, and a fresh batch of draft picks poised to steer the Rider resurgence in less than a month, it’s essential to explore five key aspects you should know about Saskatchewan as they head into this season.

MACE SETS THE TONE

The acquisition of Corey Mace by the Riders stands out as a pivotal moment for the organization, potentially shaping its identity. With his recent leadership role in bolstering the Toronto Argonauts’ defense, Mace embodies the qualities I deem essential: a background as a former player and a temperament suitable for the high-pressure demands of leading in Regina. Furthermore, he’s reputed to possess excellent game management instincts, a sentiment echoed by numerous sources I’ve consulted during this off-season.

Given this backdrop, Mace is poised to imprint his beliefs onto the Riders’ culture, which, if successful, promises increased victories for Saskatchewan. Coupled with the presence of promising young coaches like Marc Mueller and J.C. Sherritt, there’s ample cause for optimism and confidence in the team’s immediate prospects.

NO MORE LARRY

Larry Dean, a four-time CFL All-Star and a personal favorite of mine for his relentless sideline-to-sideline runs, has transitioned to a new role within the organization, leaving a notable gap in the team’s lineup. It’s important to remember Dean’s remarkable comeback from a preseason Achilles injury in 2021, where he reclaimed his status as one of the CFL’s top players in reading plays and reaching the football.

While the addition of Jameer Thurman from Hamilton in free agency should facilitate a smooth transition, there’s simply no replacing Dean’s iconic head towel, “champ juice,” and infectious energy that he brought to the Canadian Football League.

HARRIS HAS TO LEAD THE WAY

“After joining Saskatchewan as a free agent in 2023, Trevor Harris made a significant impact by leading the Roughriders to victory in three out of his initial four games as the team’s starting quarterback. Unfortunately, his promising start was cut short by a season-ending injury, prompting the Riders to experiment with different strategies to revive their playoff hopes in the West Division.

However, without Harris, their late-season resurgence lacked momentum. While I recognize the potential in Mason Fine and Shea Patterson, I strongly believe that for the Riders to achieve any meaningful success, Harris must regain his health and maintain his trademark accuracy and efficiency.”

IT’S ON US… EMILUS & LENIUS

Excuse the pun, but the truth is, these two exceptional Canadian receivers must uphold this mindset consistently throughout the year. They’ve navigated through NFL opportunities and endured losing seasons with changing coaching teams. It’s crucial now to witness Samuel Emilus and Brayden Lenius stepping up to lead the CFL as a dynamic Canadian receiver duo.

HERE COMES AJ

One of the most unexpected moves in CFL Free Agency this spring was AJ Ouellette’s decision to depart Toronto for Saskatchewan, opting for what can figuratively be called better opportunities. Upon closer examination, it becomes apparent why AJ made this choice.

His former defensive coordinator likely assured him of a commitment to a robust running game, supplemented by the addition of offensive tackle Jermarcus Hardrick from rival team Bombers. Hardrick’s adeptness at protecting the passer and creating running lanes complements Ouellette’s aggressive rushing style.

The Riders’ blueprint for success this year revolves around a dominant defense, controlling possession time, and quarterback Trevor Harris dissecting opponents with his astute decision-making. Ouellette’s physical presence adds a crucial element in pivotal moments.

If everything aligns and the team stays focused, Riders supporters are poised for a memorable season.