Darrell Henderson to the CFL: Super Bowl Champ Signs with Saskatchewan Roughriders

The Saskatchewan Roughriders just made a massive splash in the CFL offseason, and fans in Regina have every reason to be buzzing. The team has officially signed former Los Angeles Rams running back Darrell Henderson Jr., bringing a genuine NFL pedigree and a Super Bowl ring to the prairies. But as with any high-profile crossover from the NFL to the CFL, the big question remains: how quickly can Henderson adapt to the Canadian game?

A Look at Henderson’s Football Resume

To understand the hype, you have to look at the numbers. Henderson was a standout at the University of Memphis before the Rams selected him 70th overall in the 2019 NFL Draft. He didn’t just ride the bench in Los Angeles—he was a contributor.

Over five seasons, primarily with the Rams, Henderson started 32 games. He racked up 1,854 rushing yards and found the end zone 15 times on the ground. Perhaps even more appealing for the CFL style of play is his ability to catch the ball. He snagged 76 receptions for 577 yards during his NFL tenure.

His crowning achievement came during the 2021 season when he helped the Rams secure a victory in Super Bowl LVI. Injuries and roster changes limited his playing time which resulted in him being out of the league in 2023. However, he is making a comeback and starting it in the CFL.

Why This Fit Makes Sense for Saskatchewan

The Roughriders needed versatility and a spark in the backfield, and Henderson fits that bill.

The Dual-Threat Advantage

The CFL game is faster and covers a wider field than the American version. This environment favors running backs who aren’t just bruisers between the tackles but can also operate in space. Henderson’s history of catching passes out of the backfield suggests he could be a nightmare for linebackers in coverage. If he can turn short check-downs into big gains using the extra width of the field, the Riders’ offense becomes immediately more dangerous.

Easing Pressure on the Quarterback

A reliable run game is a quarterback’s best friend. If Henderson can establish himself as a threat on early downs, it opens up the playbook for play-action passing. Defenses will have to respect the run, preventing them from teeing off on the quarterback on every snap.

The Road To The 2026 Season

The signing was made public on February 13, 2026, giving Henderson plenty of time to prepare before pads start popping. However, nothing is guaranteed. If he stays healthy and digests the playbook quickly, he has the inside track to become the focal point of the offense. If he struggles to adapt, he still provides incredible competition and depth for the running back room.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Signing

How much NFL experience does Darrell Henderson actually have?

He brings significant experience. Henderson played five seasons, mostly with the LA Rams, appearing in 54 games with 32 starts. He is also a Super Bowl LVI champion.

Why did the Roughriders target him specifically?

Saskatchewan’s front office saw an opportunity to add a player with elite production history. They are betting that his rushing and receiving skills will translate well to the CFL and upgrade their offensive output.

When will fans see him on the field?

Henderson is expected to join the team for training camp. Pending health checks and roster decisions, he should be available for the CFL season opener on June 13.

What To Watch For In Training Camp

For Henderson, this is a chance to reboot a career that stalled in the NFL. For the Roughriders, it’s a calculated risk with a potentially massive payout.

This is the classic “low-risk, high-reward” scenario that championship teams are built on. If Henderson can recapture the magic he showed at Memphis and during his Super Bowl run with the Rams, the Roughriders won’t just have a new starter—they might have the league’s most dynamic weapon. As we inch closer to the June opener, all eyes will be on how this NFL veteran handles his new life in the CFL.