Chad Kelly Reinstated by CFL, Returns to Toronto Argonauts
After a controversial suspension, Chad Kelly made his much-anticipated return to the Toronto Argonauts on Sunday. This follows his reinstatement by the Canadian Football League (CFL), marking a significant step in both his career and personal journey.
Kelly's suspension on May 7 stemmed from violating the CFL's gender-based violence policy, sidelining him for two exhibition games and the first nine regular-season contests. The suspension was the result of an independent investigation related to a lawsuit filed by a former strength-and-conditioning coach, accusing Kelly of sexual harassment and the Argonauts of wrongful dismissal. The lawsuit was settled in June through mediation.
As part of his suspension terms, Kelly was required to undergo confidential assessments by an independent expert and attend counseling sessions focused on gender-based violence. His reinstatement hinged on the satisfactory completion of these requirements.
"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," Kelly stated, acknowledging his missteps publicly for the first time.
Before finalizing his return, Kelly had a crucial conversation with CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie. Additionally, the league confirmed it had received Kelly's confidential psychological assessment and reviewed the results with the assistance of experts.
Upon his return, Kelly participated in Sunday's practice, taking about 70% of the starting offense snaps, a positive sign of his reintegration into the team. Head coach Ryan Dinwiddie was notably optimistic about Kelly's return.
"It was good to have him back. His teammates were excited to see him back in the building," Dinwiddie noted. However, he expressed caution regarding Kelly starting in Thursday night's game against Saskatchewan, given Kelly's limited practice time and absence from training camp.
The Argonauts, standing at 5-4, are set to host the Saskatchewan team, which holds a 5-4-1 record. Despite Kelly's inspiring league-best and franchise-record 16-2 showing last season, which ended with a defeat to Montreal in the East Division final, Dinwiddie plans to be measured in ramping up Kelly’s involvement. Kelly will potentially share reps with fellow quarterbacks Cameron Dukes and seasoned pro Nick Arbuckle.
General Manager Mike Clemons emphasized the significance of this return not only for Kelly but for the team's overall culture. "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," Clemons remarked.
Kelly’s football career has seen its share of ups and downs, from his collegiate years at Clemson, East Mississippi Community College, and Mississippi, to being the last pick in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. His tenure with the Broncos ended abruptly in 2018 after an arrest for criminal trespassing.
Since his suspension, Kelly has maintained a low profile, abstaining from media interactions and staying away from the team environment. His return marks a new chapter as he takes steps towards personal and professional redemption.
As Toronto prepares for the pivotal game against Saskatchewan, all eyes will be on both Kelly and the broader dynamic within the Argonauts' roster. The journey ahead is about more than just football; it's about transformation, accountability, and the intricate balance of personal growth and professional duty.