On the opening day of training camp, the Toronto Argonauts have announced that franchise quarterback Chad Kelly will not be participating in team activities.
“Chad Kelly is currently not participating in team activities,” the team wrote in a statement. “The team’s focus is on training camp activities with the players available. Future updates will be provided as warranted.”
The league’s reigning Most Outstanding Player was recently suspended for a minimum of nine games after a CFL investigation found “unequivocal evidence” that he broke their gender-based violence policy. According to an executive summary of the league’s investigation, Kelly made persistent advances on Toronto’s former strength and conditioning coach, acted aggressively towards her, and yelled derogatory remarks at her.
The investigation occurred after the subject of the alleged harassment filed a lawsuit against Kelly and the Argonauts. None of the allegations have been tested in court.
Kelly attended the team’s rookie camp last week, which prompted criticism from multiple female employees around the league. Under league rules, it is up to the discretion of the team whether or not a suspended player is present at practice.
General manager Michael ‘Pinball’ Clemons addressed the media following practice and defended Kelly’s presence, stating the team was adhering to the terms of the league’s ruling. He also took responsibility for his team’s alleged mishandling of the harassment claims and stressed the importance of organizational growth going forward.
The 30-year-old will have to attend mandatory counselling sessions conducted by a gender-based violence expert and undergo assessments by an independent expert to be reinstated by the league. If he doesn’t complete the sessions and assessments to the league’s satisfaction, discipline against him could be modified.
Kelly’s agent, Chris Lambiris, told 3DownNation this week that his client was “looking into” his options for appeal. The Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) has since filed an appeal to obtain the full 87-page report completed following the investigation into the allegations made against Kelly.
The Argonauts open the 2024 regular season on Sunday, June 9 hosting the B.C. Lions at BMO Field.
