The Saskatchewan Roughriders have released American strongside linebacker Derrick Moncrief.
The 30-year-old veteran was scheduled to hit free agency on February 13 but will now get to test the open market early.
Moncrief began his CFL career with Saskatchewan in 2017, playing three seasons with the organization that culminated in a West Division all-star selection in 2019. The Oklahoma State product leveraged that success into NFL opportunities with the Las Vegas Raiders and Los Angeles Rams, before returning to the CFL with the Edmonton Elks midway through the 2021 campaign.
The native of Prattville, Al. re-joined the Riders the following offseason, expressing his desire to stay with the team long-term. He enjoyed another West Division all-star season in 2022 but saw his role reduced in 2023, recording 50 defensive tackles in 14 games.
“Derrick represented the Saskatchewan Roughriders with pride for five seasons and we were fortunate to have someone of his character as part of our organization,” general manager Jeremy O’Day said in a statement. “Not only was he a two-time all-star, but he was a strong community role model through his work with the Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation. We wish him all the best in the future.”
In 75 career CFL games, Moncrief has amassed 248 defensive tackles, nine special teams tackles, eight sacks, nine interceptions and a forced fumble.
The six-year CFL veteran has also been one of the Riders’ most active players off the field in recent years. As a Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation Player Ambassador, he travelled the province giving 40 presentations about mental health and wellness over four months and reached more than 1,700 youth. He also participated in the Rider Reading program, took part in Grow the Game football camps and was named the 2023 Mosaic Community Player of the Year.
Saskatchewan will open their 2024 season on Saturday, June 8 when they travel to Edmonton to face the Elks.
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