‘Playing it smart’: Trevor Harris’ availability uncertain after QB misses 2 straight practices

Saskatchewan Roughriders quarterback Trevor Harris (7) takes the snap during second half CFL football action against the Toronto Argonauts in Toronto Friday, June 20, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jon Blacker

Saskatchewan Roughriders’ quarterback Trevor Harris’s availability is uncertain after he missed both practices to begin Week 4.

“We’re playing it smart,” head coach Corey Mace told reporters Wednesday. “[Thursday], we’ll have some decisions on that.”

Harris took a hard hit to the head in the final minute of the first quarter of Friday night’s game in Toronto against the Argonauts. There was a 15-yard roughing the passer penalty called on the play and Harris remained under centre to finish the game.

Through two practices this week, the team has listed Harris with a head injury and an illness.

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Mace says it is concussion related.

“It was a big hit,” he said. “We did keep our eyes on that and protecting the players is what we’re about.”

“But also he’s dealing with some sort of infection,” Mace added.

The Riders do have a Week 5 bye and a long season still ahead. While Mace believes there is time to be cautious, he would rather have his starters in the lineup.

“You do look at timelines like that with bye weeks around the corner,” he said. “But if we can put out the people we pencil in: we’re going to do that.”

In the meantime, back-up Jake Maier has been taking snaps with the first team offence in Harris’ absence.

“I’m prepared,” Maier said after Wednesday’s practice. “I have another day to get right and focus on some redzone stuff and different situations.”

“I feel really good,” he added.

Maier, now in his fifth CFL season, did make one start in the preseason against Winnipeg at home.

His last regular season start was in 2024 during Week 21 against the Roughriders as a member of the Calgary Stampeders when he went 19/26, 293 yards passing and three touchdowns.

“It’s still early in the year, so you’re not going to be at your best. [We’re] not perfect yet,” he said. “But I will say we’re continuing to grow and we’re continuing to apply the things we’re taking from one game to the next.”

“Whoever goes out there needs to put their best foot forward,” Maier added.

Mace believes his back-up’s resume speaks for itself.

“[He] is getting comfortable again,” he said. “Repetition is what has solidified belief. More reps will help him, certainly. He’s Jake Maier and that’s why you bring him in there.”

The Riders say Harris’ status for Saturday’s game against the B.C. Lions will be finalized after Thursday’s closed practice.