The offseason started for the Saskatchewan Roughriders following the team's 38-22 loss to Winnipeg in the West Final.
The Riders football operations team is already evaluating the current roster and plotting what it may look like in 2025. One pending free agent who would like to return is All-CFL defensive back Marcus Sayles.
“I definitely want to be here. Ever since I got here, there's been nothing but love. My teammates, these coaches, these fans, they've shown me nothing but respect and love," Sayles said.
Sayles was released by the B.C. Lions after training camp on June 2 in a salary-shedding move. Two days later, the 30-year-old signed with the Roughriders. The 30-year-old played 17 regular season games in 2024, registering 57 tackles and equalling a career-high with four interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown.
In 2019, Sayles won a Grey Cup with the Blue Bombers. He's excited about his future in Saskatchewan given his experience in the Manitoba capital.
“We’re really close. I feel like it could have been done this year. We had everything right here and the cookie didn't crumble our way," Sayles said. “Looking back on our season and seeing where we ended, I feel like we will be here again."
The six-year CFL veteran wants to weigh his options prior to deciding his future for 2025, but he reiterated his desire to be back in Green and White.
“I want to be a part of it. I want to be a part of the organization willing to work, willing to try and get the job done.”
Sayles will watch the 111th Grey Cup from Vancouver this weekend. He hopes to return to the CFL championship game in 2025, wherever he gets the opportunity to play.
The Toronto Argonauts take on the Blue Bombers in the 111th Grey Cup on Sunday. Countdown to Kickoff begins with Dave Thomas, Justin Dunk and Wes Cates at 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. That's when TSN's pre-game show takes over. Kickoff goes at 5:30 p.m. with a post-game show to follow on the Co-operators Roughrider Radio Network.
