Two days of Saskatchewan Roughriders’ training camp are over and done with at Griffiths Stadium, with Monday’s session including a newcomer!

The Green and White announced the signing of defensive lineman Ali Saad, their first-round pick from the 2025 C-F-L Canadian Draft, to his rookie contract. The Windsor product was selected fourth overall after playing 44 games over four seasons at Bowling Green State. Following is the news release from the Riders, plus media scrum audio with Saad and Saskatchewan head coach Corey Mace…..

DATE:                         May 12, 2025

RELEASE TIME:          IMMEDIATELY

RELEASE:                 SR25-064

RIDERS 1st  ROUND SELECTION ALI SAAD ARRIVES IN RIDERVILLE

The Saskatchewan Roughriders have signed National defensive lineman Ali Saad.

Saad (6’3-280) was selected by the Riders in the first round, fourth overall, of the 2025 CFL Draft. He played four seasons (2021-24) at Bowling Green, suiting up for 44 games for the Falcons. The Windsor, Ontario born lineman had a strong 2024 season, starting in all 13 games as a senior and setting collegiate career highs in tackles (40), tackles for loss (9) and sacks (5), while also posting 16 quarterback hurries, two forced fumbles and blocking one kick. Saad totaled 78 defensive tackles, 14 tackles for a loss of 72 yards, six sacks, four forced fumbles and one blocked kick over his time at Bowling Green. He also earned 2024 Academic All-MAC. Prior to Bowling Green, Saad spent his redshirt freshman season at the University of Minnesota. He attended rookie minicamp with the San Francisco 49ers earlier this month.