The Saskatchewan Roughriders played their first CFL pre-season contest of 2026 on Monday, falling 20-15 to the Calgary Stampeders. While some questions were answered, others remain as the team prepares for its final exhibition game on Saturday against Winnipeg in Saskatoon.
Quarterback Competition
Jack Coan solidified his status as the frontrunner for the backup quarterback job behind Trevor Harris. The third-year pivot played the entire first half, showing flashes with both his arm and legs, but also made some questionable decisions. An early interception on a dump pass and several forced throws highlighted areas for improvement, particularly pocket awareness and patience.
Behind Coan, rookie Brayden Schager had an up-and-down performance in the second half. He led Saskatchewan on an impressive touchdown drive in the final minute, showcasing his dual-threat ability. With the release of Jordan McCloud, Schager is firmly in the mix for a roster spot.
Receiver Standouts
Mathew Sexton, a late addition to camp, emerged as Saskatchewan's top receiver with five catches for 78 yards. His 4.4-second 40-yard dash speed was evident, making him a strong candidate for the vacant starting receiver spot. However, decisions will also consider CFL experience, with Siaosi Mariner (no catches), Abdul Janneh (three catches, 44 yards), and Juwann Winfree (three catches, 35 yards) also in contention.
At the Canadian receiver position, clarity remains elusive. Dhel Duncan-Busby had one catch for nine yards, while Daniel Wiebe, a standout in training camp, saw action primarily on special teams. The final pre-season game will be crucial for these players.
Other Takeaways
The Roughriders' defense showed promise but allowed too many big plays. Special teams were solid, with good coverage and return work. The offensive line struggled at times with pass protection, especially in the first half. Running backs had limited opportunities, making it difficult to evaluate that position. Overall, head coach Corey Mace will have plenty to review as the team makes final roster decisions.
