The CFL has suspended Toronto Argonauts quarterback Chad Kelly for a minimum of 9 regular season games for violating the CFLs Gender-based Violence Policy. The suspension prevents Kelly from playing in pre-season games as well.

According to a statement released the afternoon of May 7^th Kelly is required to undergo “confidential assessment by an independent expert and attend mandatory counseling conducted by a gender-based violence expert” in order to become eligible for re-entry into the league. If Kelly is unable to complete these in a satisfactory manor the league retains the ability to “modify” his suspension. The decision from the league comes after a comprehensive third party investigation into allegations made against Kelly earlier this year.

“Players are the ambassadors of our great game,” CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie said in the release. “They are expected to be leaders in the locker room and role models in the community. It was important that we performed our due diligence to properly review this matter from all points of view. That in-depth investigation found that Mr. Kelly unequivocally violated the CFL’s Gender-based Violence Policy.

“Mr. Kelly’s suspension is the direct result of his behaviour. The addition of mandatory counselling focuses on his need for self-reflection and understanding of his actions. He must take full advantage of this opportunity for personal betterment in order to return to the CFL.”

Reigning MOP

Kelly, the 2023 Most Outstanding Player, has been in the league since 2022 when he clinched a comeback victory for the Argonauts against the Blue Bombers in the Grey Cup. He has since become the Argonauts starting quarterback. His new 3-year contract is valued at $1.8 million making him the highest paid player in the league.

The Lawsuit

After several incidents between Kelly and the former coach were mostly ignored by higher staff members within the Argonauts organization a lawsuit was launched against Kelly for his actions and the Argonauts organization for their lack of response. The lawsuit, launched in February, seeks $50,000 from Kelly for violations of the Ontario Human Rights code and includes a joint lawsuit against Kelly and the Argonauts for $85,714 for wrongful dismissal.