The Saskatchewan Roughriders have signed American quarterback James Franklin to a one-year contract extension for the 2021 season.
The six-foot-two, 235-pound Franklin will return to the Riders after signing with the green and white during CFL free agency in 2020.
He spent the previous two seasons with the Toronto Argonauts where he played 27 games for the double blue. Franklin threw for 2,836 yards with 11 touchdowns against 15 interceptions with the Argos. He added 448 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns. As the primary short yardage QB in 2018, Franklin scored 14 rushing majors, leading the CFL in that category.
Prior to his trade to Toronto, Franklin spent three seasons in Edmonton, winning the Grey Cup with the team in 2015. Over his time with the green and gold Franklin passed for 1,449 yards including 12 touchdowns and just one interception. He also rushed 18 times for 145 yards and an additional TD.
Franklin played in the NCAA at the University of Missouri for four seasons (2010-2014). In 42 games Franklin threw for 6,962 yards and 51 touchdowns against 25 interceptions. He rushed for an additional 1,729 yards and 21 touchdowns. In 2011, the Texas native was named MVP of the 2011 Independence Bowl. In 2014, Franklin led the Tigers to a win at the Cotton Bowl.
