REGINA — The Saskatchewan Roughriders have added depth to their backfield with the signing of international running back Shakir Bell.

The signing comes as the Riders ready for the playoffs and are without Trent Richardson who will sit out this week.

The 25-year-old Indiana native spent the first two years of his CFL career with the Edmonton Eskimos where had a combined 181 carries for 1,058 yards and two touchdowns in 15 games.

Despite being limited to four games last season, the 5-foot-8, 185-lb Bell still managed 68 carries for 425 and a touchdown. He also caught 34 passes for 312 yards over two seasons with the Eskimos.

Earlier in the year Bell signed with the Ottawa REDBLACKS as a free agent but was released in training camp.