Chad Kelly's Return to Toronto Argonauts: A Second Chance Amidst Controversy
Chad Kelly rejoined the Toronto Argonauts on Sunday, marking his return to the team after the Canadian Football League (CFL) reinstated him. Kelly's comeback follows a suspension initiated on May 7 for violating the CFL's gender-based violence policy, which kept him out of action for two exhibition games and the season's first nine regular-season matches. His return heralds a new chapter in a career marred by controversy but punctuated by significant achievements on the field.
Suspension and Aftermath
Kelly's suspension followed an independent investigation into a lawsuit filed by a former strength-and-conditioning coach. The lawsuit alleged sexual harassment against Kelly and wrongful dismissal against the Argonauts. The case was settled in June through mediation, mandating several conditions for Kelly's reinstatement. Under the terms, Kelly had to undergo confidential assessments by an independent expert and attend counseling sessions with a gender-based violence specialist. These steps were prerequisites for his return to professional football.
The CFL confirmed receipt of Kelly's confidential psychological assessment. Consequently, the league consulted with experts to review the results before finalizing his reinstatement. Kelly also engaged in a conversation with CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie ahead of the decision, signaling the league's thorough approach to addressing the issue.
First Steps Back
Upon his reinstatement, Kelly was promptly back at practice, taking about 70% of the starting offense snaps on Sunday. Argonauts' head coach Ryan Dinwiddie noted plans to increase Kelly's workload during Monday's practice sessions. “It was good to have him back. His teammates were excited to see him back in the building,” remarked Dinwiddie.
Despite Kelly's return, Dinwiddie expressed caution about starting him in Thursday night's game against Saskatchewan. Due to Kelly's limited practice time and absence from training camp, the coaching staff prefers a cautious approach. The Argonauts (5-4) might potentially split reps between Kelly and other quarterbacks, Cameron Dukes and veteran Nick Arbuckle, as they face Saskatchewan (5-4-1).
Rebuilding Trust
General Manager Mike Clemons emphasized the importance of Kelly taking full accountability for his actions. “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 stated.
Kelly himself acknowledged the weight of his actions and expressed a commitment to personal growth. “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 said.
Path of Redemption
Kelly's football journey has been rocky. After a stellar college career with stints at Clemson, East Mississippi Community College, and Mississippi, he was picked last in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. However, his tenure with the Broncos was short-lived, culminating in his release following an arrest for criminal trespassing in 2018.
His initial spell with the Argonauts was more promising. Kelly led the team to a league-best and franchise-record 16-2 record last season, though their impressive run ended with a 38-17 loss to Montreal in the East Division final. Kelly has maintained his distance from the team during his suspension and refrained from speaking to the media upon his return.
As Kelly re-enters the competitive fray, both the player and the franchise face significant challenges. His journey back will be watched closely, not just for his on-field performance, but the steps he takes to restore his reputation and contribute positively to his team and the wider CFL community.