The Saskatchewan Roughriders have opted not to extend Shea Patterson’s contract following the conclusion of the 2024 CFL season. The 28-year-old quarterback expressed uncertainty about the team’s decision. Despite enjoying his time in Regina and appreciating the community’s football culture, he understands that the organization chose a different path.
Shea Patterson’s Performance with the Roughriders
Patterson’s season saw him start seven games, achieving a completion rate of 60% on 1,655 passing yards. He recorded six touchdowns and five interceptions while also making 38 rush attempts for 134 yards and seven rushing touchdowns. Despite his contributions, he ended the season with a record of 2 wins, 4 losses, and 1 tie.
Communication Issues
The decision to move on from Patterson came without clear communication from head coach Corey Mace or general manager Jeremy O’Day. Patterson noted that he would have appreciated having more stability, stating that continuity with the coaching staff and teammates could have enhanced team chemistry.
Future Moves and New Opportunities
During the CFL free agency in February, Patterson signed with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. However, he was released early in training camp, with head coach Mike O’Shea indicating he did not fit the team’s expectations. Four months later, while on vacation with his newborn son, Patterson received an opportunity from the Montreal Alouettes.
Joining the Montreal Alouettes
Patterson joined the Alouettes during the 2025 season, appearing in eight regular-season games. He specialized in short-yardage situations, successfully rushing 20 times for 45 yards and contributing six touchdowns. Alouettes head coach Jason Maas praised Patterson’s adaptability to the team’s offensive strategies and his valuable skills in crucial game situations.
Looking Ahead to the Grey Cup
The Saskatchewan Roughriders, boasting a regular-season record of 13-6, will face off against the Montreal Alouettes, who finished at 12-8, in the 112th Grey Cup. This matchup is set for November 16, at Princess Auto Stadium in Winnipeg, with kickoff scheduled for 6:00 p.m. EST.
- Roughriders vs. Alouettes Grey Cup Date: November 16
- Location: Princess Auto Stadium, Winnipeg
- Broadcast: TSN, CTV, RDS (Canada); CBS Sports Network (U.S.); CFL+ (International)
In their previous encounters, the teams split their two regular-season meetings, with both games played without key Alouettes quarterback Davis Alexander due to injury. The weather forecast suggests a high of two degrees with a mix of sun and cloud, potentially impacting game conditions.
This marks the fifth instance that the Grey Cup will take place in Winnipeg, and the second at Princess Auto Stadium since its establishment. The previous Grey Cup hosted at this venue occurred in 2015 when the Edmonton Football Team defeated the Ottawa Redblacks.
