The Saskatchewan Roughriders have added to their secondary, signing American defensive back James Burgess Jr.
The 6-foot-3, 190-pound Burgess Jr. signed with the New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent in 2025 before making the move north to the CFL.
The 23-year-old spent four collegiate seasons at Alabama State University from 2021 to 2024, developing into one of the top defensive backs in HBCU football.
During his senior season in 2024, Burgess Jr. recorded four interceptions while playing cornerback. In 12 games, he posted 53 tackles — including four for loss — along with 10 pass deflections, one sack, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
His standout campaign earned him the Aeneas Williams Award as the top HBCU defensive back in the nation. He was also named a First-Team All-American and First-Team All-SWAC selection.
In 2023, Burgess Jr. tallied two interceptions — both returned for touchdowns — while adding 32 tackles and 11 pass deflections in 11 games.
The Roughriders continue to reshape their defensive backfield ahead of the upcoming season.
