Saskatchewan Roughriders linebacker Ryder Varga could make his 2026 debut this week against the Edmonton Elks. (Britton Gray/980 CJME)

‘It felt like it was destined’: Varga embraces Riders opportunity

By Britton Gray Jul 30, 2026 | 4:58 PM

Ryder Varga grew up watching the Saskatchewan Roughriders — he could soon, finally, be suiting up for them.

The linebacker suffered a torn ACL with the Toronto Argonauts last September and was released on May 1, ahead of their training camp. The Riders announced his signing just days later.

“Toronto let me go around the end of April and then the agent was talking to some teams. I was like, it would be nice if the Riders would call me,” Varga said.

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“They did and worked out a deal and it was good for both sides. We couldn’t be happier,” Varga added.

He admitted the rehab process was long and monotonous.

“You’re by yourself long days and just, the light at the end of the tunnel has got to be worth it for you. For me, the chance to play in the CFL for the home team made it all worth it,” Varga said.

Varga grew up in the Queen City and went to a lot of Rider games at Taylor Field as a kid.

“So many (memories). The first one that comes to mind is a sad memory — it’s S.J. Green getting the one-handed catch in the back of the end zone. Just so many big moments. You watched Weston Dressler and Andy Fantuz. Those guys are legends to you,” Varga said. “So many core memories I have as a child and now it’s like people you were looking up to, you’re in their shoes now.”

The University of Regina Ram was selected in the third round (29th overall) by the B.C. Lions in the 2022 CFL Draft. He spent the 2023-24 seasons with the Lions before he was traded to the Argos for the 2025 campaign. He has appeared in 49 CFL games, recording 82 tackles, 28 special teams tackles and two sacks.

He admitted it’s not ideal to have to relocate, but that’s part of the business. Now he and his family are glad he’s back home in Regina.

“My mom started crying. I was really excited. Everyone was really happy for me. They all selfishly wanted me to stay here, but (you) can’t be a beggar when you’re going through the draft process. You’re just happy to be taken. I’m happy it finally happened. It felt like it was destined.”

After missing the first six games while injured, Varga appears set to make his Roughriders debut Saturday against the Edmonton Elks at Commonwealth Stadium. He is listed as available on the team’s injury report.

Kickoff is set for 5 p.m. The Green Zone pregame show begins at 3 p.m.

“It means everything. I haven’t played since September of last year. It feels like forever ago that I got hurt. To do it for the hometown team is really exciting,” Varga said.

Saskatchewan will be without defensive back Rolan Milligan after he suffered a knee injury in practice on Wednesday. Saskatchewan has also ruled out offensive lineman Zack Fry (knee), running back A.J. Ouellette (knee) and defensive back Nelson Lokombo (ankle).

Wide receiver Sam Emilus (foot) is questionable.