Four Roughriders players picked for CFL all-star team
The Saskatchewan Roughriders have four representatives on the 2018 CFL all-star team, which was announced Tuesday.
Offensive lineman Brendon Labatte, defensive ends Willie Jefferson and Charleston Hughes and defensive back Ed Gainey were named to the dream team.
Members of the Football Reporters of Canada and the CFL head coaches selected the all-stars.
Labatte was named a CFL allstar for the sixth time in his 11-year CFL career. He started 18 games during the 2018 regular season at guard and centre. Labatte, 32, was the Riders’ nominee for the 2018 most outstanding offensive lineman.
Hughes, 34, was selected an allstar after leading the CFL in sacks for the third consecutive season with 15. He chipped in 35 defensive tackles and returned a fumble 57 yards for a touchdown.
It’s the fifth time that Hughes was selected a CFL all-star. The previous four selections took place when Hughes was with the Calgary Stampeders.
It’s the second consecutive year that Jefferson and Gainey were named CFL all-stars.
In 2018, the 27-year-old Jefferson recorded a career-high 10 sacks and added 34 defensive tackles while starting 18 games. He also returned two interceptions for touchdowns.
Jefferson was named the Riders’ most outstanding player and most outstanding defensive player for 2018. Gainey started all 18 games in 2018, recording three interceptions and returning one pick for a touchdown. He also had 51 defensive tackles and a sack.