‘I’m coming home’: Ajou Ajou back in Saskatchewan Roughriders’ green

Ajou Ajou is back in Saskatchewan Roughriders green.

“It’s a great day to be alive,” said the 23-year-old pass-catcher. “It’s bittersweet but I’m coming home to some fans and people who love me so I’m all for it. I’m happy.”

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Ajou was taken in the seventh round (59th overall) of the 2024 CFL Draft by the Riders. He ended up playing in 12 games for the team last season, earning 20 receptions for 307 yards and two touchdowns.

He was able to parlay that success in the league into an NFL opportunity as he attended training camp and preseason with the Indianapolis Colts. He was placed on waivers but wasn’t offered a practice roster spot.

“It was a dream come true. You can go on Google and search up how many people make it to the NFL — 0.1 per cent or whatever. I got to be a part of that o.1 per cent,” Ajou said. “I just look at it as a blessing in disguise. I learned a lot and just keep working.”

With no calls coming from other teams, Ajou knew Saskatchewan was where he wanted to be.

“After that, I just wanted to play football at that moment,” Ajou said. “I was like, ‘Hey, Jeremy O’Day. I’m coming home.’

“Home is where the heart is. It’s the people. This is the first team to take a chance on me — a seventh-round pick. At the end of the day, I feel like I owe this organization and province so much. I’m just trying to be the best,” Ajou said.

Head coach Corey Mace is also glad to have Ajou back in the room.

“A warm welcome from the team to have him back. Just to see the kid smile and bring the energy like we walked about. It’s nice to have him back,” Mace said. “(The NFL opportunity) was well-earned and I know it didn’t turn out the way he wanted. We talked about the things he learned in the process … I’m super proud of him and I think his teammates love him and the province loves him. Super proud of him.”

Ajou joins the team ahead of the 60th Labour Day Classic in Regina as the Riders host the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Sunday. Kickoff for the game is set for 5 p.m.

While he only has one practice under his belt, Ajou admits he is asking to play.

“I’m just trying to get back in the playbook. We will see what happens but short notice like that it will be difficult. I’m not going to stop asking though,” Ajou said.

Mace admitted it would be unlikely he would suit up for this week’s game.

“He just got here yesterday so I know he has been trying to champ at the bit with (offensive co-ordinator Marc Mueller and receivers coach Marquay McDaniel) trying to get things down. Even though it was relatively fresh, it’s still a transition but (he will play) in the near future,” Mace said.

Kicker Brett Lauther was also back at practice on Friday. It has been announced on social media he and his wife have welcomed a baby into the world.

“Super cool experience for them. We’re happy for them and a part of the dad club — the girl dads. Super happy for them both — all three of them. She doesn’t know it but she is walking into a couple of good parents. The guys were happy for him, we’re happy for him. It’s awesome,” Mace said.