Jayden Dalke has died at the age of 30.
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The Canadian Football League linebacker was killed in a car crash on Saturday, July 18. The New York Post reported his death. Also killed in the incident was 22-year-old Bhishma Rajyaguru.
Jayden Dalke Helped Win a Championship
Dalke was a sixth-round draft pick in the 2022 CFL Canadian Draft. The University of Alberta linebacker was selected 54th overall by the Saskatchewan Roughriders. He then helped lead the team to its fifth championship in 2025.
At the time of the crash that took his life, he was returning to Regina, the capital of Saskatchewan. He had spent time in his hometown of Leduc during the Roughriders' bye week.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said they received a report around 8:30 p.m. local time on the night of the incident of a silver SUV leaving a gas station without paying for gas. Nearly half an hour later, the same vehicle was involved in the crash.
Dalke was driving the wrong way down the highway before the crash. Both alcohol and cannabis were discovered in his vehicle.
The Saskatchewan Roughriders Shared a Statement
The CFL paid tribute to Dalke in a statement on Monday, July 20.
"It is with tremendous sadness that we share the tragic news of Jayden's passing," it read. "He was a passionate competitor who played with incredible heart. Off the field, he will be remembered for his leadership in the locker room and his dedication to the community. The CFL has lost a teammate, a Canadian brother and a friend. On behalf of the Board of Governors, our CFL family and the entire Canadian football community, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Jayden's family, friends, the Saskatchewan Roughriders organization, and all those whose lives were bettered through knowing him."
The Saskatchewan Roughriders also made a similar statement of its own.
"A relentless warrior on the field, Jayden's determination, toughness, and work ethic inspired his teammates, who cared deeply for him and are heartbroken by his passing," it read. "On and off the field, he was the true definition of what it means to be a Saskatchewan Roughrider.
"Our hearts go out to the entire Dalke family, who traveled the country to watch Jayden live his dream. We will miss him terribly and will never forget the impact he had on our lives and our team."
