The CFL has reinstated Toronto Argonauts QB Chad Kelly on a “last chance agreement.”
Kelly, who has found trouble every stop on his football career from college to the NFL to the CFL, must abide by the agreement … or else.
Per the league:
On May 7, the CFL levied a suspension for a minimum of nine games against Mr. Kelly, based on the findings of a thorough third-party investigation into allegations made against him. Over the course of his suspension, Mr. Kelly was required to attend psychological assessments and mandatory counselling sessions conducted by an independent expert in the field of gender-based violence. Mr. Kelly served the ninth game of his suspension on August 9.
The CFL received Mr. Kelly’s final assessment on August 10, and the league immediately began a thorough review process of its findings. The CFL sought guidance from an expert who specializes in gender-based violence and met with the psychologist and counsellor who worked with Mr. Kelly. He then took part in an in-person discussion with Commissioner Randy Ambrosie.
The ongoing mandatory conditions surrounding Mr. Kelly’s reinstatement reflect the need for him to demonstrate a continued commitment to upholding league standards. These conditions are confidential and will not be disclosed.
Update: Chad Kelly reinstated with conditions on last chance agreement. pic.twitter.com/VX7hqSaHyq
— CFL Communications (@CFL_PR) August 18, 2024
The Argonauts, who are currently 5-4 and in third place in the CFL East, weighed in with a statement:
Toronto Argonauts update on Chad Kelly status pic.twitter.com/a2zp4oBHR3
— Toronto Argonauts Media Relations (@ArgonautsMR) August 18, 2024
Kelly released a statement:
“I am sorry for my actions and the impact it has had on many people personally, the Toronto Argonauts and the CFL,” Kelly said in a statement issued by the Argos. “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.
“With that commitment in mind, I have accepted the League’s conditions of reinstatement, including its ‘Last Chance Agreement.’ ”
This sounds like an idea the NFL and NFLPA should get think about knocking off from the CFL.
