Born and raised in Regina, Saskatchewan, Getzlaf grew up playing ice hockey in addition to football with his younger brother, Ryan,[1] an NHL All-Star, two-time Olympic gold medalist and Stanley Cup champion for the Anaheim Ducks.

[2] While he was on the practice roster during the Roughriders' 2007 Grey Cup victory, he still shared in the win, meaning that both he and his brother, Ryan, ended up 2007 champions with their respective teams.

Getzlaf started the 2008 season on the practice roster, but with a rash of injuries at the receiver position, he was pressed into action, making his Riders debut on Oct 3, 2008.

Once Fantuz came back from injury in the Banjo Bowl, Getzlaf retained his starter's position, with Jason Clermont being relegated to a backup role; hence, he started 14 games during the regular season.

Getzlaf finished with a team-leading six touchdown receptions and was tied with Andy Fantuz for the team lead in two-point conversions with two.

In the 2009 West Final, Getzlaf had three catches for 21 yards and a touchdown, which was part of the 27-17 win over the Stampeders that featured all Roughrider scoring by Canadian players.