July 19 (Reuters) – Jayden Dalke, a Canadian linebacker and captain of the Saskatchewan Roughriders, died in a car accident on Saturday evening, the Canadian Football League team announced on Sunday.
A native of Leduc, Alberta, Dalke, 30, was selected by Saskatchewan in the sixth round of the 2022 CFL Draft and won the 2025 Grey Cup with the team.
“A relentless warrior on the field, Jayden’s determination, toughness and work ethic inspired his teammates, who cared deeply for him and are heartbroken by his passing,” the Roughriders said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to the entire Dalke family, who traveled the country to watch Jayden live his dream.”
Dalke appeared in 68 career regular-season CFL games, registering 69 tackles, 31 special-teams tackles, three forced fumbles, one interception and one sack.
“The CFL has lost a teammate, a Canadian brother and a friend,” CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston said in a statement, calling the defensive back a “passionate competitor who played with incredible heart.”
(Reporting by Nicole Fernandes in Toronto; Editing by Jacqueline Wong)
