The Saskatchewan Roughriders' Big Move: Securing Kian Schaffer-Baker Through 2027
In a move that has thrilled fans and sparked debate, the Saskatchewan Roughriders have locked in Canadian receiver Kian Schaffer-Baker for the long haul. But here's where it gets controversial: how did they manage to retain him despite already signing fellow receiver Samuel Emilus to a lucrative contract extension?
Schaffer-Baker, a 27-year-old native of Mississauga, Ontario, has been a key part of the Roughriders' success. In the 2025 season, he made an impact with 15 catches for 177 yards in regular-season games and added crucial receptions in the West Final and Grey Cup matches. His size, at six-foot-four and 195 pounds, makes him a formidable target on the field.
Originally drafted in the fourth round of the 2020 CFL Draft from the University of Guelph, Schaffer-Baker has since become a consistent performer. In 57 regular-season games with Saskatchewan, he's caught an impressive 220 passes for 2,865 yards and 14 touchdowns. These numbers speak to his reliability and skill.
The recent signing of Samuel Emilus to a two-year extension worth $285,000 in hard money for 2026 led many to speculate that the Roughriders might not be able to keep both Canadian receivers. However, General Manager Jeremy O'Day assured fans that it was a challenge they were willing to take on, stating it would be difficult but not impossible.
And they've delivered! The Roughriders' success in the 2025 season was notable. They finished first in the West Division with a 12-6 record, a feat they hadn't achieved since 2019. They went on to win the 112th Grey Cup in Winnipeg, defeating the Montreal Alouettes. Trevor Harris, the starting quarterback, had an outstanding season, throwing for 4,549 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions.
On the field, the Roughriders ranked second in net offense and net defense, and they tied for third with a turnover differential of plus-eight. Off the field, they drew impressive crowds, finishing second in attendance with an average of 28,427 fans per game, a 2.7% increase from the previous year.
So, how did the Roughriders manage to retain both Schaffer-Baker and Emilus? It's a question that has many fans and analysts intrigued. Did they make some creative financial moves? Or did they have an ace up their sleeve in contract negotiations? Share your thoughts in the comments! Is this a smart move for the Roughriders, or a risky one? We want to hear your opinions!
