John Ursua Overcomes ACL Injuries, Makes Comeback with CFL’s Saskatchewan Roughriders
After facing two ACL injuries in consecutive years, John Ursua, the former University of Hawaii receiver, has managed to make a remarkable comeback in his pro-football career. Despite the setbacks, Ursua’s determination and resilience have enabled him to rise above adversity before, and he is ready to do it again.
Following a successful rehabilitation process and receiving approval from doctors, Ursua’s agent reached out to both NFL teams and Canadian Football League officials. Kyle Carson, the lead scout for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, had been tracking Ursua ever since he was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in 2019. It didn’t take long for the Roughriders to express their interest in Ursua’s talents.
Ursua and the Roughriders have agreed upon a two-year contract, which will go into effect on September 11th, pending final roster expansions in the CFL. Ursua is enthusiastic about joining the team, stating, I’ll play for Saskatchewan for the last eight games.
The contract also includes an escape clause that allows Ursua to leave at the end of this season if he receives an offer from an NFL team. While Ursua dreams of another opportunity in the NFL, as he needs a full third season for eligibility towards an NFL pension, he expressed his willingness to continue his career in Canada, should the opportunity arise. He emphasized his desire to showcase his talents and play the sport he loves.
Ursua has become synonymous with comebacks throughout his career. In 2017, during his sophomore season, he suffered a torn ACL in his right knee but returned the following year to lead the nation in touchdown catches. Prior to his second regular season with the Seahawks, Ursua sustained another ACL injury during an exhibition game against Denver. Then, in 2022, he tore his right ACL during a pickup basketball game. Despite these setbacks, Ursua remains hopeful and determined.
Ursua acknowledges that torn ACL injuries have become more common in the world of football. However, witnessing other players successfully return from these injuries and having experienced it himself, he remains undeterred. He firmly believes he has a lot left to give and is ready to showcase his skills once again.
Following last year’s injury, the New York Giants and Arizona Cardinals expressed midseason interest, but Ursua felt he wasn’t fully ready with his ACL at the time. Now, he feels prepared and eager to make an impact on the field.
Before joining the Roughriders, Ursua reached out to former University of Hawaii quarterbacks Bryant Moniz and Timmy Chang, both of whom had played in the CFL. Initially intrigued by the wider field and the 20-yard-deep end zones in Canadian football, Ursua considered playing as a quarterback. However, he ultimately decided to continue his career as a wide receiver.
Ursua also maintains outside interests to secure his financial future. Despite being credited with two NFL seasons, he remained frugal and made wise investments instead of splurging on luxury items. Over the past four years, he has focused on acquiring property and other business ventures, including a restaurant called Auntie’s Hawaiian Kitchen in Riverton, Utah, where he serves as a co-owner. With his sound financial planning, Ursua aims to make smart choices for his future.
As Ursua embarks on another chapter in his football career with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, he continues to demonstrate determination, perseverance, and resilience. He believes that he has more to offer the sport and is eager to prove himself on the field. Whether it’s in the CFL or a potential return to the NFL, Ursua is ready to make his mark and celebrate this remarkable comeback story.
