Toronto Argonauts quarterback Chad Kelly addressed the media Tuesday following his reinstatement to the CFL. Kelly’s return comes after a suspension for violating the league’s gender-based violence policy.
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The CFL announced Kelly’s reinstatement on Sunday, allowing him to rejoin the Argonauts after missing two preseason games and nine regular-season contests. The league stated that confidential conditions were attached to Kelly’s return.
Kelly expressed remorse for his actions, stating, “I’m sorry for my actions, I’m sorry for what I did. I affected a lot of people — my teammates, my coaches, women, my family — I feel bad for the situation that happened.”
The suspension stemmed from an independent investigation into a lawsuit filed by a former Argos strength-and-conditioning coach. The lawsuit, which alleged sexual harassment against Kelly and wrongful dismissal against the team, was settled through mediation in June.
During his suspension, Kelly underwent mandatory counseling sessions with a gender-based violence expert and completed confidential assessments by an independent expert. The quarterback met with CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie as part of the reinstatement process.
Kelly emphasized his commitment to personal growth, saying, “I know what I need to do and what’s at stake every day. I’m thankful I have a group of people around me but, yes, I am going to strive to do exactly what is needed to make sure I’m staying on the football field, I’m staying to be a better person.”
Argonauts head coach Ryan Dinwiddie confirmed that Kelly will start in the upcoming game against the Saskatchewan Roughriders. The Argonauts currently hold a 5-4 record, while the Roughriders stand at 5-4-1.
In a corresponding roster move, Toronto released quarterback Bryan Scott, who had dressed for all nine of the team’s games this season but saw limited action.
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