Mario Anderson Jr., Siaosi Mariner released as Saskatchewan Roughriders part ways with 17 more players

The Saskatchewan Roughriders have trimmed their roster ahead of the CFL’s mandatory cutdown deadline, releasing 19 players — including running back Mario Anderson Jr.

Anderson, who featured in nine games during his rookie season with Saskatchewan, departs after recording 134 rushing yards and two touchdowns from 24 carries. The 25-year-old also added four receptions for 13 yards.

A number of other players were also let go as the Roughriders finalized their squad. Those released include Canadian receiver Shemar McBean, American pass-catchers Javian Hester, Abdul Janneh Jr., Siaosi Mariner and Juwann Winfree, Canadian offensive lineman Connor Klassen, and American lineman Spencer Brown.

Defensively, Saskatchewan moved on from American defensive linemen Sundiata Anderson, Chico Bennett Jr. and Davin Vann, alongside linebacker Vi Jones. Defensive backs Trae Tomlinson, James Burgess Jr., Benny Sapp III and Steven Weston Jr. were also among the departures, while kicker Jonathan Kim, punter Jesse Mirco and long snapper Reed Hughes were released as well.

In addition, Canadian linebacker Osasere Odemwingie and defensive back Carson Sombach have been placed on the retired list as both intend to return to school.

Some of the outgoing players had featured prominently in recent campaigns. Mariner, who joined the Riders this year after previous spells with the Ottawa Redblacks, appeared in 16 games and registered 26 catches for 317 yards and two touchdowns. Bennett, meanwhile, was viewed as a contender to secure Saskatchewan’s vacant defensive end role after making two appearances last season.

Sapp also exits after six appearances in 2025, during which he recorded 19 defensive tackles, three special teams tackles and a forced fumble. Mirco, who took over punting duties late last season, averaged 47.4 yards per punt across five appearances as a rookie.

Elsewhere, the Roughriders assigned 13 players to the practice roster for the start of the campaign, while veteran defensive lineman Benoit Marion will open the season on the one-game injured list.

Rookie draft picks Darius Bell and Dylan Djete have also been placed on the six-game injured list as Saskatchewan finalizes preparations for the new CFL season.