2026 Saskatchewan Roughriders Season Preview: Defending the Grey Cup Title with a New Look Roster
The Saskatchewan Roughriders recently received their Grey Cup rings, with some players still on the team and others now playing for different teams. The team has seen significant roster changes since winning the CFL championship, with 16 of the Grey Cup players no longer with the Roughriders. Despite the turnover, the team has a strong core of impact players returning for the 2026 season, giving them hope of defending their title.
As the Roughriders gear up to start the season on June 13 at Mosaic Stadium against the B.C. Lions, they will raise the championship banner. The team has undergone several roster changes this off-season, with key players like Trevor Harris, A.J. Ouellette, and Thomas Bertrand-Hudon returning for another season. The receiving corps has seen some turnover, with new faces like Kian Schaffer-Baker and Samuel Emilus stepping up.
On the offensive line, there have been some changes, with Zack Fry expected to start at left guard and Erik Andersen joining as the sixth offensive lineman. The defensive line sees Mike Rose returning at defensive tackle, with new additions like Caleb Sanders and Ali Saad expected to make an impact. The linebacking corps has also seen some changes, with Antoine Brooks taking over at strongside linebacker and newcomer Josh Woods joining the team.
The secondary remains largely intact, with all five starters from the Grey Cup returning. The special teams unit, however, has undergone a complete overhaul with new players in the kicker, punter, long snapper, and returner positions. The coaching staff has also seen some changes, with Joshua Bell taking over as defensive coordinator and Micah Johnson retiring to become the new defensive line coach.
Overall, the Saskatchewan Roughriders are gearing up for the 2026 season with a mix of returning veterans and new faces, hoping to build on their championship success. With a strong core of players and a revamped special teams unit, the team is looking to make another run at the Grey Cup this season.