The Saskatchewan Roughriders are mourning the sudden loss of team captain Jayden Dalke, who died in a car accident Saturday evening. The Canadian Football League team confirmed the tragic news in a statement released Sunday.
Dalke, who was 30 years old and originally from Leduc, Alberta, had been drafted by Saskatchewan in the sixth round of the 2022 CFL Draft. He went on to be part of the team’s 2025 Grey Cup championship victory.
The organization expressed deep grief over his passing, describing him as a driven and inspiring presence. “A relentless warrior on the field, Jayden’s determination, toughness and work ethic inspired his teammates, who cared deeply for him and are heartbroken by his passing,” the Roughriders said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to the entire Dalke family, who traveled the country to watch Jayden live his dream.”
Over the course of his CFL career, Dalke appeared in 68 regular-season games, recording 69 tackles, 31 special-teams tackles, three forced fumbles, one interception, and one sack.
CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston also released a statement honoring Dalke, calling him a “passionate competitor who played with incredible heart.” Johnston added, “The CFL has lost a teammate, a Canadian brother and a friend.”
