Chad Kelly Returns to Toronto Argonauts After Suspension
Chad Kelly made a notable return to the Toronto Argonauts on Sunday, following his reinstatement by the Canadian Football League (CFL). Earlier this year, Kelly had been suspended for violating the CFL's gender-based violence policy, a suspension that included missing two exhibition games and the first nine regular-season contests.
The CFL's action came in response to an independent investigation into a lawsuit filed by a former strength-and-conditioning coach, which accused Kelly of sexual harassment and the Argonauts of wrongful dismissal. This lawsuit was settled through mediation in June. As part of his suspension terms, Kelly was required to undergo confidential assessments by an independent expert and participate in counseling sessions with a gender-based violence expert. Compliance with these conditions was necessary for his consideration for reinstatement.
After fulfilling these mandates, the CFL received Kelly's confidential psychological assessment. The league reviewed the results with expert assistance before deciding on his return. One of the final steps in the reinstatement process included a conversation between Kelly and CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie. Upon completion, Kelly rejoined his team.
Toronto Argonauts Head Coach Ryan Dinwiddie expressed optimism about Kelly's return. "It was good to have him back. His teammates were excited to see him back in the building," Dinwiddie said. During Sunday's practice, Kelly took about 70% of the starting offense snaps, with plans to increase his workload during Monday's practice sessions.
Despite his return, there is a measured approach towards Kelly starting the upcoming game against Saskatchewan. Toronto (5-4) is set to host Saskatchewan (5-4-1) on Thursday night. Dinwiddie conveyed caution regarding Kelly's participation in the game, given his limited practice time and absence from training camp. It is likely that Kelly will split reps with the Argos' other quarterbacks, Cameron Dukes and veteran Nick Arbuckle.
Kelly's football journey has been tumultuous, spanning several college stints at Clemson, East Mississippi Community College, and Mississippi, before being the final pick in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. However, his stint with the Broncos ended in 2018 following an arrest for criminal trespassing.
Despite his troubled past, Kelly managed to lead the Argonauts to a league-best and franchise-record 16-2 record last season. Unfortunately, their impressive run concluded with a 38-17 home loss to the eventual Grey Cup champions, Montreal, in the East Division final. Throughout his suspension, Kelly kept his distance from the team and refrained from speaking to the media upon his return.
Expressing remorse, Kelly stated, "I am sorry for my actions and the impact it has had on many people personally, the Toronto Argonauts, and the CFL. I recognize that this is just one step in the process of bettering myself, but it is an important one, and I am committed to doing what is needed to be a better teammate, colleague, and person."
His return also prompted an official statement from Argonauts General Manager Mike Clemons. "This is an important step for Chad, who has taken full accountability for his actions and represents just the beginning of his ongoing commitment to bettering himself and learning from this experience. There continues to be much work to do to strengthen our team culture, and we are all committed with Chad's return, to work on this together, as a team."
As Kelly works to reintegrate himself with his team, his journey remains a significant chapter in the Argonauts' ongoing season. His performance in upcoming practices and potential game time will be closely watched as the team seeks to build on its promising record.