Chad Kelly Reinstated by CFL, Returns to Toronto Argonauts
Chad Kelly made a significant return to the Toronto Argonauts on Sunday, reinstated by the Canadian Football League (CFL) after serving a suspension for violating the league's gender-based violence policy. Kelly had been out of action since May 7, missing two exhibition games and the first nine regular-season contests.
The suspension followed an independent investigation stemming from a lawsuit filed by a former strength-and-conditioning coach, accusing Kelly of sexual harassment and the Argonauts of wrongful dismissal. The case was settled through mediation in June, but not before stipulations were put in place for Kelly's return.
As part of his suspension terms, Kelly was mandated to undergo confidential assessments and attend counseling sessions with a gender-based violence expert. Only after satisfactorily completing these requirements was he considered for reinstatement. The CFL confirmed they had received Kelly’s psychological assessment and involved experts in reviewing the results before finalizing his return.
Before officially being reinstated, Kelly had a conversation with CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie. This marked an essential step in his journey back to the field.
First Day Back
On Sunday, Kelly rejoined his teammates and participated in practice, taking about 70% of the starting offense snaps. Head coach Ryan Dinwiddie noted the positive atmosphere his return brought to the team. "It was good to have him back. His teammates were excited to see him back in the building," said Dinwiddie.
However, Dinwiddie expressed caution about Kelly starting Thursday’s game against Saskatchewan, citing his limited practice time and absence from training camp. Instead, Kelly is expected to share reps with Cameron Dukes and veteran Nick Arbuckle, ensuring a gradual reintroduction to competitive play.
A Rocky Path to Redemption
Kelly’s return follows a tumultuous period that saw him distanced from the team and abstaining from media interactions. Despite his off-field issues, his on-field performance last season was nothing short of stellar. Leading Toronto to a league-best and franchise-record 16-2 record, Kelly’s efforts were key until their season ended with a 38-17 loss to Montreal in the East Division final.
Kelly’s football journey has been marked by both promise and controversy. His college years included stints at Clemson, East Mississippi Community College, and Mississippi, before being drafted last overall in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. His NFL career was short-lived, as he was released by the Broncos in 2018 following an arrest for criminal trespassing.
Addressing the impact of the recent events, Kelly said, "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."
Team Response and Future Prospects
Argonauts General Manager Mike Clemons emphasized the broader implications of Kelly’s return, focusing on team culture and ongoing personal growth. "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."
With both Toronto and Saskatchewan holding 5-4 records heading into Thursday night’s game, the match's outcome could influence the standings significantly. For Kelly, it represents another step in a larger process of rehabilitation and a return to form, both as a player and as an individual.
Kelly’s limited practice time means he will need to split reps with Dukes and Arbuckle, a strategic move intended to ensure his smooth transition back into the starting lineup. Toronto’s coaching staff remains cautious yet hopeful, balancing the immediate needs of the team with long-term goals.
As the CFL season progresses, all eyes will be on Kelly to not only deliver on the field but also to demonstrate his ongoing commitment to personal growth and team integrity. The journey ahead will undoubtedly require a concerted effort from Kelly and the Argonauts, ensuring that past mistakes are not forgotten but used as a foundation for building a more resilient and united team.