Quarterback Kelly officially announces his withdrawal from the Toronto Argonauts camp

GUELPH, Ont. – Toronto Argonauts quarterback Chad Kelly has officially withdrawn from the CFL club's training camp.

Kelly made the announcement in a statement to The Canadian Press on Thursday. The CFL's standout player last year wants to digest the results of the league-ordered investigation, which played a major role in his suspension from both Toronto's exhibition games and at least nine regular-season contests.

Kelly said he wants to “work to gain both readmission to the CFL and the trust of everyone.”

“I had to take time to process the results of the CFL investigation that were released last week as they were not consistent with who I am or the team and community leader I want to be “Kelly said in the statement. “I want to be the leader that brings people together and I strongly believe that all workplaces should be safe and healthy for every team member.”

“As my legal team awaits the legal findings for review, considers options to clarify some of the report’s conclusions, and considers next steps, I will take full advantage of this advisory opportunity to learn, develop, and improve.” At the same time “I want to help the Argonauts organization prepare for the season and have decided to withdraw from training camp to minimize distractions for the team.”

Last week, the CFL suspended Kelly for violating its gender-based violence policy. It followed an independent investigation into a lawsuit filed by a former strength and conditioning coach against Kelly for sexual harassment and the Argos for wrongful dismissal.

Two days later, Kelly was on the field during rookie camp at the University of Guelph in Toronto. He was not in the gear or practicing, but afterward, Argos GM Mike (Pinball) Clemons said that Kelly's presence was within the CFL's disciplinary terms.

A league spokesman said Kelly was on the field at Toronto's discretion.

Like all CFL clubs, Toronto opened training camp on Sunday, but also announced Kelly would not take part in team activities. Despite the release of his statement, Kelly had not been seen at the University of Guelph since rookie camp.

Under the suspension, Kelly must undergo a confidential evaluation by an independent expert and attend mandatory counseling sessions conducted by a gender-based violence expert. Both must be completed satisfactorily before the CFL will consider Kelly's reinstatement and reserve the right to change his discipline.

“Chad just didn’t want to be a distraction,” Toronto head coach Ryan Dinwiddie said. “It’s good for him to do his counseling and all the courses.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 16, 2024.

The Canadian Press