REGINA – The Saskatchewan Roughriders have added depth to their linebacker corps with the signing of American defender Chris Russell Jr., the team announced Thursday.
Standing six-foot-one and weighing 235 pounds, Russell Jr. arrives in Riderville after participating in training camp with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats earlier this year. Prior to that, he signed with the UFL’s Memphis Showboats in January 2025 and spent time on the Green Bay Packers’ practice roster following his entry into the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2024.
A native of Dyersburg, Tennessee, Russell Jr. played five seasons at Texas A&M, appearing in 58 games. During his collegiate career, he recorded 112 total tackles (59 solo), 10 tackles for loss, five sacks, one interception, one forced fumble, two fumble recoveries, and a blocked kick—showcasing his versatility and impact across all phases of defense.
The Roughriders continue to build defensive depth as they prepare for the second half of the CFL season.
