The Canadian Football League's Most Outstanding Player for 2023 could soon be back in the fold. Toronto Argonauts quarterback Chad Kelly, the nephew of Jim Kelly and a former NFL player with the Broncos and Colts, will meet Friday with CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie, according to Farhan Lalji of TSN. Ambrosie suspended Kelly for a minimum of nine games. The suspension resulted from an investigation sparked by a lawsuit from the team's former strength and conditioning coach. The Argonauts have generated a 5-4 record through nine games in 2024. Cameron Dukes and Nick Arbuckle have started at quarterback, in Kelly's absence. The Argonauts have a bye this weekend. They play again on Wednesday, August 22. With nine games left, the Argonauts can still climb from third place in the East Division — especially if Kelly is reinstated and if he can perform like he did last year. Kelly was the last pick of the 2017 draft. He spent time with the Broncos in 2017 and 2018 and the Colts in 2019 and 2020. After not playing at all in 2021, he joined the Argonauts in 2022. He came off the bench to lead the team to a Grey Cup win during his first year, and he was the CFL's equivalent of NFL MVP in his second.
Kelly’s Reinstatement and Conditions
Former Ole Miss Rebels and current Toronto Argonauts quarterback Chad Kelly was reinstated by the Canadian Football League on Sunday on what the league called a "last-chance agreement," according to reports from ESPN. Kelly was suspended from the CFL on May 7 for Toronto's two exhibition games and the first nine games of the regular season following violations of the league's gender-based violence policy. That suspension came after a lawsuit filed by a former strength and conditioning coach against Kelly for sexual harassment and the Argonauts for wrongful dismissal. The lawsuit was settled in June, and the league stated on Sunday that it had reinstated Kelly on this last-chance agreement "provided that he continues to meet a number of ongoing conditions," although those conditions are confidential and will not be revealed to the public. According to a statement from the league, those conditions "reflect the need for [Kelly] to demonstrate a continued commitment to upholding league standards." The Argos captured a 39-25 win over Calgary on Aug. 9 in its ninth regular season game of the season, and they currently hold a 5-4 overall record. Kelly has not suited up for his team since it lost to Montreal in last season's East Division final. Kelly was named the CFL's most outstanding player last season after throwing for over 4,100 yards and 23 touchdowns in a 16-2 campaign for the Argos. While at Ole Miss in the 2015-16 seasons, Kelly threw for 6,800 yards and 50 touchdowns alongside 21 interceptions. He was also key in leading the Rebels to a Sugar Bowl win to conclude the 2015 season.
A Return to the Field
Kelly's return to the field comes after a lengthy process of introspection and accountability. The league suspended Kelly following an independent investigation into the lawsuit filed against him and the Argos by a former strength-and-conditioning coach. The lawsuit, which was settled in June through mediation, alleged Kelly engaged in sexual harassment.
Kelly has apologized for his actions, stating that he understands the seriousness of his conduct and its impact on others. He has emphasized his commitment to personal growth and learning from this experience. The CFL's decision to reinstate Kelly on a last-chance agreement signals a commitment to helping him make amends and contribute to the league again.
A Long Journey Back
The journey back to the field has been a challenging one for Kelly. He was suspended for both of Toronto's exhibition games and the first nine regular-season contests, meaning he missed significant time on the field. While the Argonauts have managed a respectable record without Kelly, his return will be a welcome sight for fans who remember his performance in 2023.
Kelly's Future with the Argonauts
The terms of Kelly's reinstatement are confidential, meaning that the exact conditions he must fulfill are unknown to the public. This level of privacy suggests a focus on rehabilitation and personal growth, rather than simply a return to the field. It remains to be seen how Kelly will perform when he returns to the Argonauts' lineup, but his past success and the CFL's commitment to his rehabilitation make his comeback a story worth watching.
The Impact of Kelly's Suspension on the CFL
Kelly's suspension and subsequent reinstatement represent a pivotal moment in the CFL. It underscores the league's commitment to addressing gender-based violence and fostering a respectful and inclusive environment for all. The details of the suspension and the conditions of Kelly's reinstatement remain confidential, but the message is clear: the CFL is taking a stand against misconduct and is dedicated to supporting players in their personal growth and rehabilitation. Kelly's return to the field is a testament to the league's belief in the power of redemption and its commitment to ensuring a safe and fair playing environment for all.
A New Chapter for Kelly
The future for Kelly, both on and off the field, is uncertain. He has a long road ahead of him, both in terms of rebuilding his reputation and proving himself worthy of the CFL's trust. It is essential to note that the details of his suspension are confidential, and therefore the specifics of his actions and the terms of his reinstatement remain unknown. However, Kelly's return provides an opportunity for him to demonstrate his commitment to positive change, both for himself and the league. Whether he can successfully navigate this path and return to his former glory remains to be seen. But his story serves as a reminder that second chances are possible, even after significant setbacks.
