Rookie receiver Dhel Duncan-Busby had his first extended playing time in the CFL during the Saskatchewan Roughriders Week 16 win over the Calgary Stampeders.
After fellow first-year Canadian pass catcher Ajou Ajou went down with a knee injury in the first quarter, the Vancouver, B.C. native was thrust into action.
"I don't like how it happened. I'm appreciative that I was able to get the opportunity. I had a lot of fun out there," Duncan-Busby said.
The 24-year-old caught two passes from Trevor Harris for 34 yards, including a 27-yard reception that setup a Brett Lauther field goal. General manager Jeremy O'Day selected the six-foot-three, 210-pound pass catcher in the third round, 23rd overall during the 2024 CFL Draft.
"Looking back at his college film, one of the things that you starred next to his name, his ability to block on the perimeter," head coach Corey Mace said.
"The game doesn't look too big for him and neither do the defensive backs. He's willing to mix it up for the greater good of the team. That's exactly the mindset and type of player that you want in the building."
Duncan-Busby did his best to help Ryquell Armstead rush for 207 yards on 25 carries against the Stamps. He's willing to do whatever it takes as a blocker to help the Riders win football games.
"I've definitely been able to relish in that opportunity to be more physical," Duncan-Busy said.
The Bemidji State University graduate feels like he's had an up and down rookie season with the Green and White. He suffered a hand injury during training camp, though No. 18 has returned to full health and flashed his ability to contribute.
"I would describe it like a football game, ebbs and flows. At the beginning, it was a little bit of a low, but we're on our way up right now," Duncan-Busby said when describing his first year as a pro.
"Dhel's been biding his time. He's gotten an opportunity and he's making the most of it. I'm really pleased with his play to this point," Mace said.
His 38-year-old veteran quarterback has noticed Duncan-Busby's work ethic on the field preparing for games and behind the scenes. He's dressed for three games this season and should be in line for more playing time with Ajou out of the lineup.
"He's got all the physical tools and he's got the want-to. The want-to is the main thing. A lot of people say they do, they talk the big game, but he backs it up with his preparation, the things that he's doing throughout the week," Harris said.
"He's got a great future. He's got great hands, really good contact balance, good after the catch. I'm excited to get him to a full game. Get him some footballs out in the open field and let him go work."
Duncan-Busy holds himself to a high standard and he's appreciative his teammates have noticed.
The Roughriders host the Redblacks on Saturday afternoon at Mosaic Stadium. Countdown to Kick-off begins with a chance to watch Justin Dunk and Wes Cates at 10 a.m. on YouTube. Luc Mullinder and I will join at 12 p.m. with the kick-off to follow at 1 p.m. on the Co-operators Roughrider Radio Network.
