Justin McInnis reveals how Saskatchewan Roughriders struggles nearly pushed him out of the game

The Saskatchewan Roughriders may have few lingering regrets after their recent Grey Cup success, but for some around the club, Justin McInnis remains a “what if” story.

Drafted in the first round of the 2019 CFL Draft, McInnis arrived in Saskatchewan with high expectations, but he struggled to establish himself over three seasons with the franchise. Ultimately, the Roughriders allowed him to leave in free agency without receiving a return, a decision that has since been questioned given how his career developed elsewhere.

After moving on, McInnis went on to flourish with the B.C. Lions, emerging as one of the CFL’s most dangerous receivers and a consistent offensive threat in three-down football. Reflecting on his career turnaround, he suggested that the key difference was how he was utilised in Vancouver compared to his time in Saskatchewan, implying the Lions better understood his strengths as a receiver.

His resurgence has turned him into a standout performer in the league, while his time in Regina is increasingly viewed as a missed opportunity for the Roughriders.