The Saskatchewan Roughriders have made strides to strengthen their quarterback lineup by acquiring Jake Maier from the Calgary Stampeders. This trade, which was made official on December 23, 2024, involved the Roughriders sending their eighth-round selection for the 2025 CFL Draft to Calgary for Maier's negotiation rights.
Maier, 27, has had notable success during his four seasons with the Stampeders, where he played 65 games and started 45 of them. Over this period, he amassed impressive statistics, completing 1,022 passes for 11,685 yards and tossing 60 touchdowns. His performance peaked last season when he ranked third among CFL quarterbacks with 3,841 passing yards and 22 touchdowns, coupled with a commendable 72.3% completion rate.
Particularly remarkable was Maier's ability to deliver standout performances, registering four games with over 300 yards passing, including exceptional outings of 373 yards and three touchdowns. He also surpassed significant career milestones last season, becoming one of the few Stampeders to throw for over 4,000 yards and exceeding 10,000 career passing yards.
The timing of this trade is pivotal for both the Roughriders and Maier, as he is set to become a free agent come February. The Roughriders currently have Maier joining fellow quarterbacks Trevor Harris, Jack Coan, and Michael Hiers on their roster, creating what could be a competitive environment as they seek to define their starting lineup for the upcoming season.
This trade reflects the Roughriders’ strategy to fortify their offensive capabilities as they head toward the future. Maier, who has demonstrated both resilience and talent, offers the Roughriders not just depth in their quarterback position but also the potential for dynamic leadership on the field.
Looking back at Maier's collegiate career at the University of California, Davis, it’s evident he was always destined for significant performances. There, he played 36 games and threw for 11,163 yards and 88 touchdowns, earning numerous accolades including the Big Sky Conference's Newcomer of the Year.
Maier's historical accomplishment of being the first player to record over 300 yards passing in each of his first three starts also highlights his capability under pressure, showcasing his readiness to take on the responsibilities of leading the Roughriders as they aim for greater achievements.
Fans of the Roughriders can expect to see how Maier’s addition to the roster plays out, as he brings not only experience but also fresh energy to the team. With expectations set high for the upcoming season, Maier’s performance will be closely watched to see if he can be the key to unlocking the championship potential within the Roughriders.
