10 Pending Free Agents the Saskatchewan Roughriders Should Bring Back

As the Saskatchewan Roughriders look ahead to the upcoming CFL season, general manager Jeremy O’Day faces a critical stretch of roster decisions. With a sizeable group of players approaching free agency, the club must choose which core pieces are essential to retain as they continue building toward a more consistent and competitive identity.

Here are 10 pending free agents the Riders should make a priority to bring back, based on performance, positional value, and long-term fit.

1. A.J. Ouellette — Running Back

Ouellette gave the Riders’ offence a punishing identity with his downhill style and relentless competitiveness. Beyond the yardage, his leadership and toughness set the tone in the locker room. Keeping him ensures stability at one of the most physically demanding positions

2. Regina-born Brett Lauther — Kicker

Lauther remains one of the CFL’s most reliable legs. His clutch gene, community presence, and long-range consistency make him difficult to replace. Special teams continuity is essential, and Lauther continuously proves his value in tight games.

3. Anthony Lanier II — Defensive Lineman

Lanier is one of the CFL’s most disruptive interior linemen when healthy. His ability to generate pressure up the middle and command double teams makes the entire defence better. Re-signing him is a must if Saskatchewan wants to maintain its defensive identity.

4. Larry Dean — Linebacker

Even in the latter stages of his career, Dean remains a tackling machine and locker-room stabilizer. His football IQ and consistency elevated the Riders’ defence throughout the season. Bringing him back provides leadership and depth at a key position.

5. Shawn Bane Jr. — Wide Receiver

Bane’s breakout season put him among the league’s elite playmakers. His chemistry with the Riders’ quarterbacks, ability to stretch the field, and knack for making contested catches make him a foundational piece of the offence. He should be a top priority.

6. Godfrey Onyeka — Defensive Back

Onyeka quietly became one of the team’s most versatile defenders, capable of playing multiple positions in the secondary. His athleticism and improving coverage skills give defensive coordinator Corey Mace flexibility on the back end.

7. Evan Johnson — Offensive Lineman

Continuity on the offensive line is critical, and Johnson brings experience, versatility, and Saskatchewan roots. While the unit faced challenges this season, Johnson remained steady. Retaining him keeps a solid veteran presence in the trenches.

8. Mario Alford — Return Specialist

One of the CFL’s most dangerous returners, Alford can flip field position in a heartbeat. His speed and vision make him invaluable in tight games. Losing him would force the Riders to rely on an unproven return game — a risk not worth taking.

9. Charbel Dabire — Defensive Tackle

Dabire continues to grow into an underrated contributor on the defensive line. His strength and ability to clog the interior give Saskatchewan important rotational depth. He’s young, Canadian, and trending upward — exactly the type of player to retain.

10. Samuel Emilus — Wide Receiver

Emilus has developed into one of the league’s best young pass-catchers. His size, athleticism, and catch radius make him a matchup problem for defences. Pairing him long-term with Bane gives the Riders a dynamic receiving core for years to come.

Final Thoughts

The Riders have a promising mix of veterans, emerging stars, and homegrown talent nearing free agency. While not every player will return, prioritizing these ten would keep the team competitive and maintain continuity in key areas. With the West Division becoming increasingly competitive, Saskatchewan must act decisively — and bringing these players back would be a strong step toward a successful campaign.