Riders Add Two To Offensive Line

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03/05/2024 18:44

The Saskatchewan Roughriders have signed National offensive lineman Ryan Berta and American offensive lineman D'mitri Emmanuel. 

Berta (6'3-302) played 35 games over five collegiate seasons (2019-23) at Queen's University. The Hamilton, Ontario native played centre in the OUA's top rushing offence, finishing the season with 1,938 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns. He was named U Sports Second Team All-Canadian and an OUA All-Star for his senior season efforts. He was also named a OUA All-Star in 2022.

Over his career as a Golden Gael, Berta made two starts at right guard in 2019 before transitioning to centre in 2021, making another 22 starts in his new position.

Berta attended the 2024 CFL Combine and won the bench press with 30 repetitions of 225lbs. It's the second time he hit that mark, having done so once before at the East-West Bowl in 2022. He was the first player to hit 30 reps at the combine since 2021.

Emmanuel (6-2, 309) joins Roughriders from Florida State University (FSU) where he played and started in 27 games over two seasons (2022-23) with the Seminoles. Emmanuel protected 2023 ACC player of the year and ACC Offensive Player of the Year Jordan Travis, who led the conference in passing efficiency, yards per pass attempt and fewest interceptions. In his senior year, Emmanuel also helped the Seminoles offence lead the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in scoring offense, total touchdowns, and rushing touchdowns. His strong 2023 season earned him First-Team All-ACC and Fourth Team All-American honours.  

Before joining FSU, Emmanuel suited up for the University of Northern Carolina, Charlotte, where he played and started in 24 consecutive games over three seasons (2019-21). During his sophomore season, Emmanuel was part of a 49ers' offensive line that allowed just 1.62 sacks per game. While at UNC Charlotte, Emmanuel was awarded the 2019 All-Conference USA Third Team, and was part of the only C-USA offensive line unit to be placed on the 2019 Joe Moore Midseason Honor Roll. 

The versatile lineman has found success at multiple positions across the offensive line during his college career including guard and tackle on both sides of the line.  