When you glance at the names of the wide receivers for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, it may be difficult to determine which one will emerge as the team’s number one target. One player on the Roughriders roster with an extensive resume as a number one receiver is Derel Walker.
During his career, the receiver surpassed 1,000 yards on three occasions.
Walker signed with the Roughriders this off-season after completing his second stint in Edmonton. The 31-year-old ended 2022 with 65 receptions for 874 yards and a touchdown, despite an unsettled quarterback situation with the Elks throughout the season.
It’s pretty clear in Saskatchewan that Trevor Harris will be the team’s starting quarterback when the Roughriders take on the Elks in the season opener on June 11 in Commonwealth Stadium.
After Thursday’s practice, Walker believed him and Harris were in sync like when the pair were wearing green and gold.
“I turn my head and the ball was there, that’s what you get with Trevor Harris.”
The Roughriders quarterback felt upbeat about the pair’s chemistry.
“You can tell his legs are getting under him that old D-Walk is pristine and clear and you can see he’s doing a good job for us.”
One of the things that Walkers appreciates about his quarterback is his accuracy.
“The thing about Trevor like I said he’s a very precise passer, on those slants I know he’s going to take care of me throwing low if the defenders are high.”
This week the wide receiver has been introduced to the Saskatchewan offensive scheme that the offensive coordinator has assembled for the squad. Walker thinks there is potential for the unit to produce some explosive numbers.
“I feel like it’s for anyone to have a big game in a week. It’s simple enough for us to go out there and play, can’t really beat that, these past few day’s we’ve been rolling.”
The former Texas A&M Aggie is no stranger to training camps. Walker is set to take part in his 8th season on the field in the Canadian Football League (CFL). With the first week of camp nearing its end, the wide receiver thinks he is hitting his stride.
“These past few days I’ve been feeling really good, believe my body is coming into that camp body shape.”
The Roughriders will compete in their annual Green and White Game on Saturday. Walker is looking forward to the live-action.
“To get the juices flowing, it’s just a different mindset when you’re really live so I’m really looking forward to it.”
The action at SMF Field will be Walker’s first introduction to the members of Rider Nation. After years of lining up on the visitors’ side in Saskatchewan, the Hillsboro, Texas product is excited to have the support of the Roughriders fans.
“I’ve been welcomed in so great, honestly I’m happy to be here, and I’m looking forward to seeing how wild these fans get and how strong the fanbase is by being part of the organization cause outside looking in, you can really tell it’s a very, very strong fanbase.”
