A roller for a mechanical fuel pump assembly includes an elongate body extending from a first axial end to a second axial end of the elongate body over an overall length of the elongate body. The elongate body defines an effective length that is less than the overall length. The elongate body defines a uniform circular cross section over a second length of the elongate body. The second length is 75 to 90 percent of the effective length and the second length extends between a first plane and a second plane. A first area of reduced cross section extends axially outward from the first plane to a third plane located axially inward of the first axial end; and a second area of reduced cross section extends axially outward from the second plane to a fourth plane located axially inward of the second axial end.