On November 28, 2016, the Roughriders announced the signings of Bryan Bennett, Terrance Campbell, Kenny Horsley, and Thomas Mayo.

On December 1, 2016, Roughriders running back Joe McKnight was fatally shot in Terrytown, Louisiana in a road rage incident.

On December 19, 2016, Roughriders linebacker Marvin Golding was suspended two games for violating the CFL's drug policy.

On January 6, 2017, the Roughriders announced the extensions of kicker Tyler Crapigna and defensive back Ed Gainey through the 2019 season.

On January 14, 2017, the Roughriders released linebacker Jeff Knox, Jr. so he could sign a deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League.

On February 15, 2017, the Roughriders signed Canadian safety Marc-Olivier Brouillette, running back Aaron Milton, offensive lineman Ryan White and 2012 CFL Most Outstanding player, international wide receiver Chad Owens.

The next day, the Roughriders signed running back Cameron Marshall and released offensive lineman Andrew Jones.