The Saskatchewan Roughriders announced today international defensive end John Chick and international receiver Weston Dressler have been released by the team.

“Decisions like these are never easy but we felt it was necessary in order for us to move forward and better position ourselves as a football team,” stated Roughriders vice president of football operations, general manager and head coach, Chris Jones. “We spoke with each player and their respective agents at length in an attempt to negotiate more cap friendly contracts but unfortunately could not reach satisfactory agreements.”

Chick spent six seasons with the Riders after originally joining the team in 2007. After winning the CFL’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player in 2009, Chick embarked on a three year NFL career. He returned to the Green and White in 2013 where he spent the next three seasons. Chick ranks fourth in Riders all-time quarterback sacks with 53. He is a two-time Grey Cup champion having won in 2007 and 2013.

Dressler joined the Riders in 2008 and went on to win the CFL’s Most Outstanding Rookie award. Through eight seasons Dressler surpassed the 1,000 yard receiving mark five times. He sits third in Riders all-time receiving yards with 7,797 and fifth in all-time receiving touchdowns with 50. He won his first career Grey Cup in 2013.

“We want to thank John and Weston for all that they have done for the Roughriders and the province of Saskatchewan,” added Jones. “We wish them both the best of luck.”