Chad Kelly Withdraws from Toronto Argonauts Camp Amid Suspension and Investigation
Kelly, who was named the CFL’s most outstanding player last year, stated that he needed time to process the findings from the CFL investigation, which played a pivotal role in his suspension. “I have had to take time to process the findings from the CFL investigation released last week as they were not consistent with the person I am or the team and community leader I strive to be,” Kelly said. “I want to be the leader who brings people together, and I strongly believe that all workplaces should be safe and healthy for every member of the team.”
The suspension, which bars Kelly from participating in both of Toronto’s exhibition games and at least nine regular-season contests, stems from an independent investigation into a lawsuit filed by a former strength-and-conditioning coach. The lawsuit alleges sexual harassment by Kelly and wrongful dismissal by the Argonauts. Kelly’s presence at Toronto’s rookie camp two days after the suspension was notable, though he did not participate in practice. Argonauts GM Mike (Pinball) Clemons confirmed that Kelly’s attendance was within the conditions of the CFL’s discipline, a point echoed by a league spokesman who stated that Kelly’s presence was at Toronto’s discretion.
Despite the team opening its training camp on Sunday, Kelly was not involved in team activities, a move designed to minimize distractions as the Argonauts prepare for the season. “Chad just didn’t want to be a distraction,” said Toronto head coach Ryan Dinwiddie. “It’s good for him to do his counselling and all of the classes.”
The terms of Kelly’s suspension include undergoing confidential assessments by an independent expert and attending mandatory counselling sessions conducted by a gender-based violence expert. Both requirements must be satisfactorily completed before the CFL will consider his reinstatement. The league retains the right to modify his discipline based on the outcomes of these assessments and sessions.
In his statement, Kelly expressed a desire to earn back both his place in the CFL and the trust of those around him. “I want to support the Argonauts organization as it prepares for the season and have made the decision to withdraw from training camp to minimize distractions for the team,” he said. “While my legal team awaits the legal findings for review, explores options to clarify a number of the conclusions from the report, and considers next steps, I will take full advantage of this counselling opportunity to learn, grow, and better myself.”
Kelly’s commitment to undergoing counselling and working towards reinstatement reflects his acknowledgment of the severity of the situation and his intent to address the issues raised by the investigation. The Argonauts, meanwhile, must navigate the challenges of preparing for the season without their star quarterback, relying on the remaining roster to step up in Kelly’s absence.
The situation remains fluid as Kelly and his legal team continue to review the findings of the investigation and consider their options. The Argonauts, under the leadership of Coach Dinwiddie and GM Clemons, will need to maintain focus and cohesion as they integrate new strategies and players into their system.
As the Argonauts look ahead to their preseason and regular-season games, the team’s ability to adapt and overcome this early setback will be crucial. For Chad Kelly, the path to reinstatement will require diligence, reflection, and a commitment to personal growth, all while the legal and league processes unfold.