“They’re Going to Feel Me”: Malik Carney Opens Up on Leaving Saskatchewan for Edmonton
Malik Carney didn’t hide the emotional difficulty of leaving the Saskatchewan Roughriders during the 2026 CFL free agency period to join the Edmonton Elks.
“Over the last couple of years, I built a brotherhood with some of those guys that will last a lifetime,” Carney reflected in an interview with 3DownNation. “That’s what makes this game special. It’s not just about football or money — it’s about the relationships you create along the way. I’m incredibly grateful for the guys I spent those years with in Saskatchewan. But sometimes, being comfortable isn’t always the best situation for your growth.”
Carney acknowledged that fans often wonder about the behind-the-scenes of these moves. “I know a lot of fans have questions about how things happen, and it’s not always what it looks like. I would have loved to return to Saskatchewan, but it just didn’t work out that way. When the right opportunity comes along to advance your career, chase bigger goals, and create new connections, you have to take it. Signing with Edmonton felt like the best move for me to continue my career, compete for another Grey Cup, and build another strong team bond.”
The 30-year-old defensive star, widely regarded as the best pass rusher on the market, didn’t reveal which other teams had shown interest. Carney led the CFL in 2025 with a 14.9% pressure rate, recording 62 quarterback pressures and setting a single-season career-high with eight sacks — numbers that made him highly coveted across the league.
“It honestly came down to a 50-50 decision,” Carney said. “Several teams were showing interest, and I was undecided until I had to make my choice. I ultimately focused on the coaching staff. Edmonton fit best in terms of scheme, roster, and culture. I also knew a few guys on the team already, which made the decision much easier.”
Money and career growth both factored heavily into Carney’s move. He received a $150,000 signing bonus and a contract guaranteeing $270,000 in hard salary for both 2026 and 2027 — totaling $540,000 over two seasons. Edmonton general manager Ed Hervey made him the highest-paid American defensive player in the CFL’s salary cap era.
“That’s an amazing opportunity,” Carney said. “I’m fortunate to play the game I love and provide for my family. I’m at a point in my career where I can do both. My conversations with Ed were positive, but ultimately this was a business decision. I had to consider what was best for me and my family. As a man, my priority is always to provide and protect.”
Carney also cited the presence of franchise quarterback Cody Fajardo as a major factor in his decision. Edmonton’s offensive line protected Fajardo well during a Week 17 matchup last season, helping the Elks beat Saskatchewan 27-25. Fajardo’s proven leadership and explosive playmaking made Carney confident in the team’s potential.
“Watching Cody from afar, I believe in his talent,” Carney said. “He proved himself in Montreal and continues to be a force. The offense is explosive, and I believe in what Cody can do to lead the team to points and wins. That was a big part of why I joined Edmonton.”
Saskatchewan and Edmonton are set to face each other three times during the 2026 regular season: back-to-back games in Week 8 and 9 — Thursday, July 23 at Mosaic Stadium, then Saturday, August 1 at Commonwealth Stadium — with a final matchup in Week 21 on Saturday, October 24 in Regina.
“They’re going to see me, and they’re going to feel me,” Carney said, offering a bold warning to his former team. “That’s all I’ve got to say for them.”
