Riders’ Burgess Jr.’s patience pays off with first interception in first CFL start

James Burgess Jr. was told one thing when he was cut by the Saskatchewan Roughriders following training camp — stay ready.

“I knew what I did in camp so I just stayed prepared and ready for any call from anyone. I got a call early and I was ready,” the 24-year-old defensive back said.

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He had even gotten a job as a mental health associate.

“I was just grateful. I told the manager what was up and they understood,” Burgess said.

Burgess was re-signed by the team on June 23 and has been on the practice roster for the most part, seeing some action as an in-game backup.

But he made his first career CFL start last week and picked off Toronto Argonauts quarterback Chad Kelly as the Riders won 28-24 to get back into the win column.

“It meant everything. I spoke it into existence. It should have been two picks but one — I’ll take it,” Burgess said. “I saw the dig coming but then I saw the out. I tried to call the dig out … I was playing two routes honestly. I saw the dig and I waited on him to throw it. I got it and tried to score.”

Prior to joining the Riders, Burgess Jr. signed with the NFL’s New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent.

Burgess Jr. spent four collegiate seasons (2021–24) at Alabama State.

Riders head coach Corey Mace was glad to see Burgess rewarded with an impact play like that in the game.

“I’m just happy for the kid,” Mace said. “That’s just kind of who he has been during the time that he has had with us. It was just great to see him put the drills to the field for lack of a better term.”

Burgess is expected to suit up for another game this weekend as the Riders welcome the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to Mosaic Stadium for the annual Labour Day Classic.

While it will be the first time Burgess has played in the rivalry game, he’s been told what to expect on Sunday.

“It’s a big rivalry and I love a rivalry game. Ready to come and make some plays and get another pick,” Burgess said. “I’m ready to come in and it’s a great atmosphere. A rivalry game and a great atmosphere — you got to love it.”

Kickoff for the game is set for 5 p.m. The Green Zone pregame show begins at 3 p.m.

There were a number of players not participating in the team’s practice on Wednesday.

Wide receiver KeeSean Johnson (back), defensive back Kerfalla Exume (ankle), defensive back Marcus Sayles (quad), linebacker Nick Wiebe (knee) and linebacker Josh Woods (ankle) didn’t practise.

There was some good news as wide receiver Johnny Johnson III (head) and running back A.J. Ouellette (knee) both logged limited practice. Ouellette has been on the six-game injured list since suffering the injury in Week 8 against the Edmonton Elks.