The Saskatchewan Roughriders announced today they have released veteran fullback Chris Szarka from the roster.
“It is always difficult to have to release a veteran player, especially someone like Chris,” stated General Manager Brendan Taman. “We had a few tough decisions to make heading into training camp and unfortunately this is one of them. Chris has been a valuable component of this team his entire career and his contributions on and off the field will be missed.”
Szarka has spent the last 14 seasons with the Green and White. He originally signed with the Riders after being selected in the second round (13th overall) of the 1997 CFL Canadian College Draft.
The 36-year-old has played a total of 223 regular season games for the Riders and tallied 439 carries for 1,723 yards with 33 touchdowns as well as 98 receptions for 1,308 yards for five touchdowns.
The Eastern Illinois product established himself as a fan favourite in Riderville as he was voted the Most Popular Player by fans in 2002 and 2003. Szarka appeared in four Grey Cups and was a member of the 2007 Roughrider championship team.
Meanwhile, the team also announced Rob Bagg has re-injured his knee while working out in Ontario. He will undergo surgery this week and is getting placed on the nine game injury list.
This doesn't surprise me. Zark was making too much $$$. When Bell came on board, I knew something was up. Is Geno next?
ReplyDeleteBOOOOOOO!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteGetting rid of the best blocking fullback in the CFL on the eve of training camp. Smart move Taman!!!
ReplyDeleteRiley
$$$$$$. Thanks for the 14 years Chris. You'll be in the Plaza soon and you are the epitome of what it is to be a Rider.
ReplyDeleteLD
"Getting rid of the best blocking fullback in the CFL on the eve of training camp. Smart move Taman!!!"
ReplyDeleteA great player that had a great career and that should never be questioned ... but it was the right football move. How many snaps was he even on the field for last year? The previous two years?
Best of luck Szarks!
Taman must prefer Hughes special team blocking that injured Conji. Definately a $$$ move. You will be missed Chris and be in the plaza of honor very soon!
ReplyDeleteChris wasn't released on the eve of training camp as it was last week. It was just released publically though today
ReplyDeleteThey should have released Doug Berry instead.
ReplyDeleteNo doubt he had a great career, but his salary could be spent elsewhere like on a new deal for Dressler. That's the business of the game. Thanks for the years of service Chris!
ReplyDeleteGB
Terrible decision to make. He still had a year or two left.
ReplyDeleteShannon
I'm starting to get worried about the offence, No Fantuz and O'Day and now no Bagg or Szarka. Is it too early to start feeling this way, especially when Doug Berry is in charge.
ReplyDeleteJN
Time caught up with Chris. He still had the talent, but when you're not on the field, you can't justify the $$$$. Does anyone know if he was offered a pay cut?
ReplyDelete