With their second round pick in the 2023 CFL Draft, the Saskatchewan Roughriders have picked up former University Regina Ram defensive back Jaxon Ford  with the 11th overall selection.

The grandson of legendary Roughrider player and executive Al Ford, the Rams defensive back will have the chance to play for the same team as his grandfather.

This past season, Ford was named a U Sports Second-team All-Canadian and was also named a Canada West All-Star.

Over a four-year career with the Rams, Ford had five career interceptions and 130 tackles. He also returned a fumble for a touchdown after a blocked punt against the University of Manitoba Bisons.

Roughriders General Manager Jeremy O’Day was happy to see Ford available when they set to pick in the second round.

“Special for me, his grandpa actually brought me to Saskatchewan.”

O’Day said the pick was based on Ford’s talent and not his last name.

“We didn’t pick him because he was Al’s grandson, we picked him cause he’s a heck of a football player.”

The Riders general manager was glad to have Ford as a member of the green and white with his stock rising during the off-season.

“He only climbed as the time went on of evaluating, he just kept climbing, his name just kept popping up for us.”

Ford spoke to the media shortly after his being selected by the Riders and was beyond ecstatic with the news.

“I’m so happy I can’t stop smiling.”

The local product was at home watching the draft party at home with family and friends when Ford heard the news.

The former Ram wasn’t surprised that he was taken by the Roughriders and believed that his showing at the CFL Combine helped his draft stock.

He added that becoming a member of the Roughriders means the world to him.

“Especially my grandpa being here,  GM, player, just crazy that I am here and able to continue the Ford family legacy.”

Jaxon added that one trait that he shares with his grandfather is that they’re both versatile players, which was Al Ford was known for when he was a player with Saskatchewan.

Ford will be in Saskatoon next week when the Roughriders open up rookie camp at the University of Saskatchewan.

Heading into the upcoming season, he is hoping to make an impact on both special teams as well on defence.

“I think I’ll come into camp with a positive mindset contributing on the backend for sure.”