Chad Kelly Returns to Toronto Argonauts After Suspension
Chad Kelly made a notable return to the Toronto Argonauts on Sunday, reinstated by the Canadian Football League (CFL) after serving a suspension since May 7. The quarterback, who had been sidelined due to a violation of the CFL's gender-based violence policy, rejoined his team amid cautious optimism and forward-looking plans.
Kelly’s suspension came in the wake of an independent investigation into a lawsuit filed by a former strength-and-conditioning coach who accused him of sexual harassment. As part of the settlement reached in June through mediation, Kelly's suspension required him to undergo confidential assessments by an independent expert and attend counseling sessions with a gender-based violence expert, conditions he satisfactorily met before being considered for reinstatement.
"I am sorry for my actions and the impact it has had on many people personally, the Toronto Argonauts, and the CFL," Kelly said in a statement. "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."
Upon receiving Kelly's psychological assessment, the CFL reviewed the results with the assistance of experts. It was only after this rigorous process and a conversation between Kelly and CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie that the decision to reinstate him was finalized.
Back on the Field
In Sunday’s practice, Kelly took approximately 70% of the starting offense snaps, signaling his active reintegration into the team. Head coach Ryan Dinwiddie noted that Kelly’s workload would see an increase during Monday’s practice sessions as the team prepares for its upcoming game against Saskatchewan on Thursday night.
"It was good to have him back. His teammates were excited to see him back in the building," Dinwiddie said, reflecting the generally positive reception from the Argonauts squad.
However, Dinwiddie expressed caution about Kelly starting the game on Thursday, given his limited practice time and absence from training camp. There is a possibility that Kelly may split reps with the Argonauts' other quarterbacks, Cameron Dukes and veteran Nick Arbuckle, as he works his way back into peak form.
The Path Ahead
Kelly’s reinstatement marks a pivotal moment for both him and the Argonauts. Toronto, holding a 5-4 record, aims to bolster its campaign as it welcomes back a quarterback who led the team to a league-best and franchise-record 16-2 record last season. Their previous run ended with a 38-17 home loss to eventual Grey Cup champions, Montreal, in the East Division final.
Argonauts General Manager Mike Clemons emphasized the collective responsibility and opportunity that Kelly's return presents. "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," Clemons asserted. "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."
A Look Back
Kelly's football journey has been tumultuous with peaks of promise and valleys of personal challenges. His college career saw stints at Clemson, East Mississippi Community College, and Mississippi. Transitioning to the professional arena, Kelly was the last pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, selected by the Denver Broncos. However, his time in the NFL was cut short when the Broncos released him in 2018 following an arrest for criminal trespassing.
His path, marked by both professional achievements and personal setbacks, underscores the complexity of an athlete's career—a narrative that continues to unfold as Kelly works to reestablish his standing in the CFL.
Moving Forward
Kelly has maintained his distance from the team during his suspension, abstaining from speaking to the media upon his return. Yet, his presence back on the field represents not just a return to action but a renewed commitment to his team and personal growth.
As the Argonauts prepare to host Saskatchewan, all eyes will be on Kelly to see how he navigates this critical juncture in his career. For the Argonauts, the potential rekindling of last season's success hinges not only on Kelly’s performance but also on the enduring lesson of accountability and growth that his journey exemplifies.