The Saskatchewan Roughriders are aiming for a second consecutive first-place finish in the CFL's West Division in 2026, but they face stiff competition from the high-flying B.C. Lions and other contenders. With the league's playoff structure remaining unchanged this season—six of nine teams qualify—the race for the top spot is wide open.
2025 Recap: Roughriders Break the Mold
For the first time since 2019, a team other than the Winnipeg Blue Bombers topped the West Division standings in 2025. The Saskatchewan Roughriders achieved this feat with a 12-6 record and went on to win the Grey Cup, defeating the Montreal Alouettes in Winnipeg. Last year's predictions accurately forecasted Saskatchewan's first-place finish, with B.C. taking second, Calgary third, Winnipeg fourth, and Edmonton fifth. Four of those five teams made the playoffs, with Winnipeg securing an Eastern crossover spot.
Key Factors for 2026
Solid starting quarterbacks across all five West Division teams ensure fierce competition. The Roughriders retained quarterback Trevor Harris, running back A.J. Ouellette, receivers KeeSean Johnson, Samuel Emilus, and Kian Schaffer-Baker, along with their entire offensive line. However, they lost key defenders Malik Carney, A.J. Allen, and C.J. Reavis in free agency. Despite these losses, the team is expected to remain strong.
The B.C. Lions, who finished second last season with an 11-7 record, are led by the league's Most Outstanding Player, quarterback Nathan Rourke. They retained playmakers James Butler, Keon Hatcher, and Justin McInnis, and boasted the league's most potent offense last year, with potential for improvement.
Other Contenders
The Calgary Stampeders surprised many last season with a 5-1 start before a mid-season slowdown. They finished 11-7 and in third place, but lost to the Lions in the playoffs. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Edmonton Elks round out the division, each capable of making a playoff push.
Given the parity in the CFL, predicting the final standings is challenging. The Roughriders are favorites to repeat, but the Lions, Stampeders, and others will push them hard. The 2026 season promises excitement and unpredictability.
