The Saskatchewan Roughriders are shaking things up with a surprising new addition to their roster! They've signed former Old Dominion star, Marcus Haynes, a defensive powerhouse with a promising career ahead. But his journey to the Roughriders is a tale of resilience and determination.
A Bronco's Beginnings: Marcus Haynes, standing tall at 6'4" and weighing 240 lbs, began his professional career in 2023 with the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent. He quickly made an impact in the preseason, showcasing his defensive prowess with five tackles and a pass deflection in just three games. But here's where it gets intriguing... Despite his impressive performance, Haynes found himself on the practice roster.
A Journeyman's Travels: Over the next few years, Haynes became a journeyman, moving from the Broncos to the Texans, Steelers, and Browns. In 2025, he ventured into the UFL, joining the San Antonio Brahmas. He made his mark in just two games, notching seven tackles, two tackles for loss, and a sack. This performance caught the attention of the Indianapolis Colts, who signed him for their training camp in the summer of 2026.
College Dominance: Haynes' talent was evident during his college years at Old Dominion. In 49 games, he started 21 and accumulated impressive stats: 102 total tackles, 22 tackles for loss, 15 sacks, five pass deflections, four forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. As a senior in 2022, he started every game, solidifying his status as a defensive force to be reckoned with.
And now, the Roughriders have secured his talents. This signing raises questions about the team's strategy and Haynes' potential impact. Will he be a game-changer for the defense? Only time will tell. What do you think about this move? Is Marcus Haynes the missing piece the Roughriders need?
