Milligan Jr. leaves Riders’ opener with upper body injury

Rolan Milligan Saskatchewan Roughriders

Former CFL Most Outstanding Defensive Player of the Year, Rolan Milligan Jr. has exited Saskatchewan’s season opener against the B.C. Lions

With about four minutes remaining, Milligan attempted a tackle on Lions’ receiver Justin McInnis.

While Milligan made the play, he appeared to favour his right shoulder and remained on the turf for a few moments. He walked off the field on his own power.

After the defensive back was checked by team staff on the sidelines in a medical tent, he walked alone to the locker room - alone - just before halftime.

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Milligan Jr. was seen on the sideline at the start of the second half out of his uniform and his right shoulder wrapped.

No injury update was immediately available from the team.

Milligan won the MODP award in 2024. As part of last season’s Grey Cup team, the halfback made 52 defensive tackles in 15 games, adding four interceptions.

In 2023, Milligan suffered a season-ending foot injury in Week 4.

Saskatchewan led the Lions 17-10 at the break.