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Stafford got off to a fast start in Edmonton this season with 30 receptions for 366 yards and two touchdowns in seven games.

However, he hasn’t caught a pass since.

The 29-year-old wideout has been scratched for all eight games since he joined the Riders, who have an abundance of quality international receivers. Their depth improved even more with the return of Jordan Williams-Lambert from the NFL, pushing Stafford and fellow veteran Manny Arceneaux further down the pecking order.

“This is the most challenging season I’ve ever had in my life,” admitted Stafford, a seven-year CFL veteran. “I started off super strong. I was on a tear and I was just getting started, (only) to take a back seat.”

That said, Stafford remains firmly behind the wheel in terms of setting a positive example with his new club.

The rest is beyond his control.

“It’s about the team; it’s not all about me,” he explained. “I have to earn their respect. I want to let these coaches know that I will be ready whenever my name is called. At this moment it’s just (about) staying ready, giving my receiver group an extra set of eyes, being the voice between the players and the coaches. That’s what my role is right now. I have no problem doing it. We’re winning so to switch anything up would be stupid.

“If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.”

Although he understands why he’s not on the field, the competitor in Stafford still wants to contribute.

He remains as confident as ever in his ability and would love to show it in Saskatchewan after previous stops with the Calgary Stampeders, Eskimos, Montreal Alouettes and Winnipeg Blue Bombers.