Riders’ Bagg adjusting to football life after Durant

Rob Bagg is once again dealing with the unexpected departure of a good friend from the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

In 2016, the veteran receiver watched as the Riders cut ties with defensive end John Chick and receivers Weston Dressler and Chris Getzlaf. This off-season, it’s quarterback Darian Durant, traded to the Montreal Alouettes for two CFL draft picks.

Durant joined the Riders in 2006. Bagg made his CFL debut with the Riders two years later.

“Darian is one of my best friends and he will continue to be for the rest of my life,” said Bagg. “It’s always tough to see a guy go like that, just as it was with Weston, Chick and Getzlaf last year.

“We’re just thankful that we got a quality eight years in together and we made a lot of good memories. We did a lot of good things for the franchise. It’s a new era. I’m happy to be part of it and I have full trust in the organization.”

The Riders open the 2017 season June 22 in Montreal. It will be different for Bagg to play against Durant, but the receiver’s thoughts will be on other things.

“We have a job to do,” Bagg said. “Obviously last year wasn’t good enough and the year before that wasn’t either. That’s what we have to be most focused on and I know that’s where I’m going to be putting my attention.”

The Riders have also brought back quarterback Kevin Glenn.

“I’m sure they will continue to bring in other pieces and they have a vision they are working toward,” Bagg said. “KG isn’t a bad guy to have in there.... To have him back out there is a great thing for Rider Nation.”