The Saskatchewan Roughriders have announced Offensive Lineman Dakoda Shepley has been released to pursue NFL opportunities.

Shepley was the Riders nominee for the CFL’s Most Outstanding Rookie. After the cancellation of the 2020 season, Shepley opted out of his CFL contract as per the agreement between the CFL and the Players’ Association.

Should Shepley return to the CFL for the 2021, the Roughriders would retain his rights.

As well, Punter Jon Ryan is also opting out:

Talked to @JonRyan9. He is opting out of his CFL deal for 2 reasons;1 He is a free agent in Feb anyway so it allows him to get an NFL deal should that arise. 2nd he doesn't feel right taking CDN taxpayers money when he doesn't need it!

— michael ball (@ballsy72) August 25, 2020

Ryan and Shepley join Linebacker Deon Lacey and Kicker Brett Lauther as Rider players who have opted out of their CFL contracts.