Rider rusher: A.J. Ouellette reportedly set to sign with Saskatchewan

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are poised to add to their rushing attack with a former Toronto Argonaut.

The Green and White have reportedly agreed to a deal with running back A.J. Ouellette.

Both 3DownNation’s Justin Dunk, who is also The Green Zone’s CFL insider, and TSN’s Dave Naylor have reported the news.

Saskatchewan Roughriders agree to terms with two-time East all-star RB A.J. Ouellettehttps://t.co/he96yxPSQu#Saskatchewan #Riders #CFL pic.twitter.com/4PTtVBR4lq

— Justin Dunk (@JDunk12) February 6, 2024

The @sskroughriders have an agreement with free agent running back AJ Ouellette. #Riders

— Dave Naylor (@TSNDaveNaylor) February 6, 2024

The 28-year-old from Covington, Ohio, enjoyed a breakout season in 2023 as a member of the Argos, rushing for 1,009 yards and eight touchdowns. He has been with Toronto since 2019, winning the 2022 Grey Cup at Mosaic Stadium with the Double Blue.

Ouellette has played in 37 career regular-season games, rushing for 1,782 yards and 10 touchdowns in his CFL career.

He’ll be familiar with new Roughriders head coach Corey Mace, who was Toronto’s defensive co-ordinator last season.

If Ouellette signs with Saskatchewan, he’ll rush behind an offensive line that will feature a big piece in offensive tackle Jermarcus Hardrick, who has also reportedly agreed to a contract.

Dunk also reported Tuesday that the Roughriders have come to an agreement with linebacker Jameer Thurman.

The Riders’ agreement with Ouellette comes during the CFL free-agency negotiation window, meaning there’s still a chance Toronto can sign an extension with the running back.

Saskatchewan appears to be moving on from tailback Jamal Morrow with the apparent addition of Ouellette. Morrow, who has been with the club since 2019, is one of 15 Riders players who are set to hit the market when free agency officially opens next Tuesday.

The Roughriders have signed running back Frankie Hickson to an extension earlier this off-season.