The Saskatchewan Roughriders won the CFL's first game of the 2025 season, but the 31-26 victory over the Ottawa Redblacks on Thursday was costly.

The Roughriders lost four starters to injury, including three in the first 17 minutes.

Receiver Kian Schaffer-Baker appeared to injure his left ankle; tailback A.J. Ouellette suffered a suspected head injury; and defensive back Rolan Milligan left the game with an apparent neck injury.

Offensive lineman Payton Collins was injured in the third quarter of his CFL debut when an Ottawa player rolled up the back of his right leg. None of the four injured Riders returned to the game.

CFL's reigning defensive MVP ready to make his mark again this year

The Roughriders dealt with injury issues last season and focused on a next-man-up mentality. Thurs

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