The Saskatchewan Roughriders are bringing back their championship-winning formula! In a strategic move, the team has extended the contract of American running back A.J. Ouellette, securing his talent for another year.
Ouellette, standing at 5'8" and weighing 208 lbs, was an instrumental player in the Roughriders' 2025 Grey Cup triumph. His impressive statistics speak for themselves: 1,222 rushing yards, ranking second in the CFL's regular season, and leading the team with nine touchdowns. But here's where it gets even more impressive: he achieved eight rushing touchdowns, including a remarkable 47-yarder, and showcased his versatility by catching 35 passes for 250 yards and another touchdown, earning him the prestigious Wireless Age Player of the Year award.
The star player's performance didn't stop there. In the Western Final, Ouellette dominated with 17 rushes for 113 yards, securing a home-field victory against the B.C. Lions. And in the Grey Cup win over the Montreal Alouettes on November 16, he rushed 17 times for 83 yards and a crucial touchdown, contributing to a 50-yard march. Ouellette's impact wasn't limited to offense; he also played a key role in protecting the quarterback, helping the team prevent any sacks in both the Western Final and the Grey Cup Game.
Ouellette joined the Roughriders in 2024, after a successful four-year stint with the Toronto Argonauts. In his first year as a Roughrider, he rushed for 558 yards in just eight games, projecting to an impressive 1,256-yard season over a full 18-game schedule. He also scored three touchdowns in two playoff games, two of which helped secure a victory against the B.C. Lions in the 2024 Western Semi-Final.
Originally from Covington, Ohio, Ouellette earned his spot on the Roughriders as a free agent, having been an East Division All-CFL selection in 2022 and 2023. In his final season with Toronto, he rushed for over 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns. But it was his performance in the 2022 Grey Cup that truly stood out, as he scored two rushing touchdowns in the Argonauts' victory over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Throughout his career, spanning 62 regular-season games, Ouellette has rushed for an astonishing 3,562 yards, averaging 5.1 yards per carry, and scoring 21 touchdowns. He has also proven his versatility as a receiver, catching 110 passes for 949 yards and five touchdowns.
And this is the part most people miss: the Roughriders' decision to retain Ouellette isn't just about his on-field performance. It's a statement of intent, a commitment to building a dynasty. By securing a key player from their championship-winning team, the Roughriders are signaling their determination to dominate the league for years to come.
Is this a wise move by the Roughriders, or should they be focusing on new talent? Will Ouellette's performance continue to shine, or is he past his prime? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
