There will be a few new names in the Saskatchewan Roughriders wide receiver’s room when the team begins the 2023 season, but one player who has become a fixture with the team is local product, Mitch Picton.
Picton enjoyed his best season as a member of the Roughriders in 2022. He ended up with 220 receiving yards and had a pair of touchdowns.
During the offseason, the Regina product was rewarded with a two-year contract extension with the Roughriders.
With Picton entering his fourth season in Saskatchewan, he has become the longest-tenured member of the group, but like the other receivers, he is learning a brand-new offensive scheme with Kelly Jeffrey taking over the offensive coordinator position.
The 27-year-old said the plan from Jeffrey presents some challenges but is excited to see it unfold.
“A bit of a learning curve, but I feel like I’m getting a grasp of it.”
Picton was a versatile member of the receiving core, playing at different positions which is something that he’s looking forward to doing again in 2023.
“That is a place I like to get to again, to be able to be thrown anywhere in the offence.”
One of the differences in the Riders offensive scheme this season is the communication according to Picton.
“Every offensive coordinator is going to have different nuances in their offence right. Between terminology, concepts, everything like that with the way they called plays.”
As the Roughriders progress through the second week of training camp in Saskatoon, the former University of Regina Ram believes the offence is starting to come together.
“It seems like we’re gelling, and we got a good room with guys that’s fun to work with, so we’re having a fun time out here.”
Nothing is set in stone with the Roughriders opening-day roster, especially with the Canadian ratio, but it does appear the team will start a pair of Canadians at the receiver. Picton noted there is plenty of Canadian talent in the Riders receiving group.
“I feel like we got guys who can make plays and some real ballers, that’s always a good thing to have right, competition always makes us better.”
With regards to his goals for the upcoming season, it’s simple for Picton.
“First goal every year is to make the team.”
He added: “Other than that, I would like to stay healthy for the season and the ultimate goal to bring that Grey Cup back to Saskatchewan.”
