Nelson Lokombo, just 27, is already one of the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ leaders in terms of continuous service.
He is among only four members of the Green and White who have an uninterrupted association with the team dating back to 2021 or earlier.
“It’s kind of crazy when you view it that way,” Lokombo said after the Roughriders practised at Mosaic Stadium on Tuesday.
“I’ve been on the team a long time and I’m one of the longer-tenured guys. I definitely take pride in that and try to help the younger guys get accustomed to the culture out here and everything else.
“I’m grateful to have been in the position to be with the team this long and I hope we can continue that.”
Lokombo, the Roughriders’ starting safety for most of the past two seasons, joined the team after being selected second overall in the 2021 CFL Canadian Draft. However, an Achilles’ tendon injury sustained in a pre-training camp workout sidelined the former University of Saskatchewan Huskies standout for the entire season.
Receiver Kian Schaffer-Baker and defensive back Rolan Milligan Jr. both made their CFL debuts with Saskatchewan in 2021.
The same year, offensive lineman Logan Ferland dressed for the Roughriders for the first time in a regular-season game. He had been on the practice roster in 2019 as a graduating member of the PFC’s Regina Thunder.
It should be noted, though, that fullback Albert Awachie — a rookie in 2017 — has spent most of his CFL career with Saskatchewan. But he did have a stint with the Toronto Argonauts in 2024.
Rewinding even further, offensive lineman Jermarcus Hardrick played for the Roughriders in 2015. He rejoined the team nine years later.
Cornerback Tevaughn Campbell, who played in 17 games with Saskatchewan in 2016, began Part 2 of his Roughriders career in 2025.
And if we’re really being picky, long snapper Aaron Crawford attended the Roughriders’ training camp in 2013. Now in his 14th CFL season, he re-signed with Saskatchewan on April 6.
Even if you factor in the experience of Awachie, Hardrick, Campbell and Crawford, Lokombo is still among the Roughriders’ leaders in longevity.
He is also in that sweet spot, where a player can combine experience and an ascending trajectory.
“I’ve played six years and I still have a lot more to go,” Lokombo said. “It definitely is nice to be at this point and have this experience. I’m hoping to carry that over into the next couple of years.”
The experience has been evident at Coors Light Training Camp — which continues until Friday — and during both pre-season games.
Lokombo intercepted Calgary Stampeders quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. during a pre-season contest on May 13 at McMahon Stadium. Interceptions by Lokombo have also been common during training-camp workouts.
“He’s catching the ball way better than he ever has, so that’s a good start,” Head Coach Corey Mace said.
“You’re seeing him grow as a vet. He’s more comfortable than he was last year and he’s able to command. He has been super rangy and effective at knowing where to set up and how to set people up for him to go get the ball.
“I’ve been really, really pleased with his progression.”
Lokombo has a similar take.
“I think it has been pretty smooth,” he said. “The communication has been on point at my end and I feel a lot more comfortable this year.
“I feel good. I’m ready to get going this year.”
This has already been a momentous year for Lokombo. He and his wife, Jessica, are newlyweds — having exchanged vows on April 14.
“It was a great milestone and I’m super happy to be in this chapter,” Lokombo said. “It has changed my life for the better.
“It definitely gives me a little more motivation to put my best foot forward to continue to represent myself well, represent Saskatchewan well, and represent my family well.”
