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Durant, who has spent all 11 of his CFL seasons with the Riders, has said on numerous occasions that he wants to remain with the Riders. Jones left little doubt on Monday that the team shares those sentiments.

“Darian has been with this organization for a long time and he has won a Grey Cup,’’ Jones said. “He’s the guy that we feel like is our starting quarterback. That’s why we started the negotiations before the season was over, because we want him as our quarterback moving forward.’’

Neither Jones nor Vertlieb was willing to discuss the financial aspect of Durant’s contract. CKRM’s Rod Pedersen reported Monday that Durant is willing to accept a salary of $350,000, marking a cut from the $450,000 the quarterback earned in 2016.

“I want to keep the numbers out of it, if I can, today,’’ Jones said. “Anytime you have negotiations it’s about the numbers, especially with your star quarterback. We’re just trying to come to a middle ground where it’s fine for both sides.’’

Jones didn’t have any issues with Durant’s statements to the media Sunday regarding the negotiations.

“He’s certainly a guy who has earned the respect and he can say what he wants,’’ Jones said. “I’m the kind of guy who likes to keep things in-house. That’s Darian’s option to do what he needs to do.’’

Durant isn’t the only Rider with an ability to test free agency in the off-season. Jones said “six or eight” Riders can file for free agency, including linebacker Jeff Knox Jr. and defensive back/linebacker Otha Foster. A list of potential CFL free agents is usually published in December.

Knox and Foster have indicated they are interested in pursuing NFL opportunities during the off-season. Jones won’t stand in the way of Knox or Foster if they head south.

“It has been my experience when I get these guys back from the NFL they know you have been loyal to them and they will play their butts off for you,’’ Jones said.

mmccormick@postmedia.com

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