Just watch’: Riders’ QB Trevor Harris sends strong message to doubters following major injury
The Saskatchewan Roughriders’ quarterback, Trevor Harris, made a triumphant return to the field on Monday, May 20, 2024, marking his first game since July 15, 2023. In a preseason matchup against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Harris led his team to a 25-12 victory, showcasing resilience and skill following a major injury that sidelined him for ten months.
Harris suffered a tibial plateau fracture in his right leg and knee, a significant injury that had many questioning whether the veteran quarterback would ever return to form. As he stepped onto the Mosaic Stadium turf, Harris reflected on his arduous recovery journey.
“I came to grips with it as I walked out on the field, thinking about what had happened and the work that had gone into coming back. I said, ‘If something were to happen again, I’m at peace with it because I grew so much from it,’” Harris shared. “As soon as I come to grips with whatever happens, it lets you let go of anything that could happen in the future.”
Despite the long hiatus, Harris displayed impressive accuracy and composure, completing seven of nine pass attempts for 123 yards. Although he didn’t throw for any touchdowns or interceptions, his performance was a statement to those who doubted his ability to return to professional football.
“I hope they think that—just watch. It’s not about proving X, Y, or Z wrong. It’s about proving the people who have believed in me and been with me all along,” said Harris. His determination was evident, and he received strong support from Saskatchewan’s new head coach, Corey Mace.
“His knowledge of being able to process the defence and what was happening—I thought we moved the ball fairly efficiently,” Mace commented. “I gave him an extra drive, and I think it worked out, marching us down the field.”
Standing at six-foot-three and weighing 212 pounds, the soon-to-be 38-year-old Harris showed he could still move the ball effectively. He emphasized the importance of rhythm and precision, aiming for a “clean” performance to help the Green and Whites secure the win.
“It’s a preseason game, it doesn’t matter for the regular season, but if you’re keeping score, you might as well try and win the games. I think winning is a habit,” Harris stated. “You gotta try and win games, no matter what. If we think this means anything, I think we’re dead wrong.”
The game also saw contributions from other quarterbacks on the Roughriders’ roster. Shea Patterson completed three of three pass attempts for 52 yards, including a touchdown to Canadian rookie Ajou Ajou, who made a remarkable catch-and-run for the score. First-year QB Jack Coan completed six of eight passes for 40 yards, while veteran Antonio Pipkin went zero for three. Mason Fine did not attempt a pass due to strategic caution from the coaching staff.
“(Fine)’s gotta be smart with his body, there was a situation with him. We had to be smart with him so he can continue to compete at a high level. We didn’t want to risk it, that was my call,” Mace explained. “We tried to get an equal amount of reps. I was pleased with how efficiently our offence moved the ball.”
Harris’s return and strong preseason performance have set a positive tone for the Roughriders as they prepare for the upcoming CFL season. His ability to lead the team down the field and manage the game efficiently offers a promising glimpse into what fans can expect. While it is still early, and this was only a preseason game, Harris’s comeback is an inspiring narrative of resilience and determination, embodying the spirit of a true competitor.