The Saskatchewan Roughriders may have several new faces expected to line up along the defensive front in 2026, but veteran defensive tackle Mike Rose believes the group is quickly coming together as preparations shift from training camp to the regular season.
Rose, entering his second season in Saskatchewan and his 10th year in the CFL, is expected to anchor a defensive line that could feature as many as three new starters. Alongside the veteran tackle, the Roughriders are anticipated to lean on James Vaughters, Caleb Sanders, Desmond Evans and Devin Adams as key contributors up front.
While the group may lack experience playing together, Rose liked what he saw throughout training camp in May.
"They're getting better," he said in a recent interview. "They're very efficient, they're young, but they're hungry, and they want to be great."
The veteran has become one of the leaders on Saskatchewan's defence after arriving prior to the 2025 season. Rose played an important role in helping the Roughriders capture a Grey Cup championship last year, recording six sacks during the regular season while appearing in all 18 games.
Now 10 years into his professional career, Rose understands what it takes to be prepared for a new season, even when the schedule and rhythm of training camp can create challenges.
"You've just got to be a pro," Rose explained. "The older you get, the more professional you get, is how I like to say it. Every day, you don't take it for granted."
That professional approach is something Rose is trying to pass along to Saskatchewan's younger defensive linemen. At the same time, he admits the learning process works both ways.
Building chemistry along the defensive line is crucial for a unit that often relies on communication and trust to execute stunts, twists and pressure packages effectively. Rose believes the fastest way to develop that chemistry is by working through mistakes together.
"Making mistakes," Rose said when asked how a defensive line develops cohesion. "Going out there and just making mistakes, trying and doing new stuff that you're not used to."
"Some of these young kids have taught me some stuff. I'm an old dog, I'm trying to learn some new tricks. I'm trying to teach them how to be a pro, and they're trying to teach me all these new dance moves and stuff."
The combination of youth and experience could be one of the strengths of Saskatchewan's defensive front this season. Rose brings a decorated CFL resume that includes three All-CFL selections, four West Division all-star nods and now a Grey Cup championship with the Roughriders.
Before joining Saskatchewan in 2025, the North Carolina State product spent eight seasons with the Calgary Stampeders, establishing himself as one of the league's premier interior defensive linemen. He recorded 36 sacks during his time in Calgary and posted a career-high 11 sacks in 2023.
As the Roughriders prepare to defend their Grey Cup title, Rose isn't interested in looking backward. Instead, the focus is on ensuring Saskatchewan's defensive line continues to raise its standard.
"Push each other to keep getting better, keep improving, and make a coordinated effort to be as dominant as we can be."
If Rose's leadership and production are any indication, the Roughriders' retooled defensive front appears ready for the challenge.
