Saskatchewan Roughriders colour commentator Luc Mullinder believes the Green and White are trending up in 2025.
"I don't see why the Saskatchewan Roughriders aren't the favourites to represent the West in the Grey Cup at the moment. You saw their ability to navigate massive adversity last year, not just in terms of getting guys ready to play, but also playing in tough spots. There's so many factors that go into it; you gotta stay healthy," Mullinder told The SportsCage.
"They're going to be a really good team in the West. That offence can get sustainable and really catch their groove. I think [Ryquell] Armstead is going to have a great year, if he's healthy. I'm going to remind people of KeeSean Johnson. This is a guy that's going into his second year in the Canadian Football League and I think can potentially be the guy for the Green and White this year."
Armstead came to the Riders after he was released by the Ottawa Redblacks on September 3, 2024. He played 13 games last season, rushing for 862 yards on 160 carries and scored three touchdowns. Prior to the CFL, Armstead played in the NFL from 2019-2021. He had a stint in the United Football League in the 2023 season with the DC Defenders.
Like Armstead, 2024 was Johnson's first year in the CFL. He played 12 games with Saskatchewan, recording 56 receptions for 746 yards and five touchdowns. Prior to Johnson coming to the CFL, he spent time in the NFL from 2019 to 2023.
According to Mullinder, he likes the Riders' defence's consistency and how GM Jeremy O'Day is bringing guys back before the free agent market hits on February 11.
"When we were going to Grey Cups, teams had an established core, a great locker room vibe and you only get that by keeping guys together," Mullinder said. "Marcus Sayles, what a great signing. That was outside of [Rolan] Milligan. He was our best defensive back last year. You still have [C.J.] Reavis, [Jameer] Thurman and C.J. Avery at linebacker. That is a monster defence."
Mullinder played in the CFL from 2005-2012 and won a Grey Cup with the Green and White in 2007 when Saskatchewan beat the Winnipeg Blue Bombers 23-19.
