The potential for Brayden Schager’s CFL debut is so close that he can almost see it now.
“I’d just try to go out there and have fun and just do everything I can to perform,” he said. “It’s awesome to be out there on that field. If I get the chance, I’m just going to go out there and have fun.”
The Saskatchewan Roughriders have activated the 24-year-old quarterback from the reserve roster for the first time this season for Saturday’s tilt with the Edmonton Elks.
Though Jack Coan is getting the starter’s assignment for the last regular season game so veteran Trevor Harris can get some extra rest for the playoffs, Schager is next in line. Riders coach Corey Mace said earlier this week that Schager might be called into action after getting some practice reps.
That possibility was enough for his parents, Scott and Ginger, to make the long trip north from Texas. They’ll at least see him in uniform on the sidelines. He’s optimistic they’ll see him behind centre.
“I’ve been working hard all year, just trying to pick up everything I can, and learn from the older guys,” Schager said. “It’s been a great experience this year. Excited for the opportunity. If I get my chance out there, I’m just going to be looking forward to it and try to go have fun.”
Schager signed with the Riders last September after a collegiate career at the University of Hawaii.
There, he was known for his “Schager Bombs,” long tosses downfield that led to him throwing for 9,096 yards and 62 touchdowns while starting 37 of 42 games from 2021 to 2024. Fans would even wear T-shirts with the words printed on them.
“That’s my favourite thing to do, to throw the deep ball,” Schager said. “Whenever I’d get to see that on social media, it’s pretty cool. People adopted that. Guys on the team at Hawaii would love it as well.
“Hopefully, I can get one of those (on Saturday). That’d be great.”
Schager hasn’t had much of a chance to launch throws while with the Riders as he’s largely had to bide his time. His last action was during the exhibition schedule.
He went 10-for-18 for 139 yards in the first game at Calgary on May 18. He also rushed five times for 41 yards, including a 20-yard touchdown. He then went 14-for-19 for 179 yards against Winnipeg on May 23 in Saskatoon. The high mark was a three-yard, game-winning touchdown pass to Daniel Wiebe with 42.9 seconds left.
Schager’s play earned him a spot on the reserve roster.
Now, the guy who tries to emulate Tom Brady’s approach and Josh Allen’s skill set is hoping he’ll be able to do something memorable in a real CFL game.
“I love playing football. That’s one of my favourite things to do,” Schager said. “Just being out there with all the guys and having fun and being able to perform a little bit was awesome. I’ve missed that. If I get my chance to play, I’ll be ready for it.”
