Argonauts head coach Ryan Dinwiddie confirmed that quarterback Chad Kelly will be the starting player for Thursday's game against the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Kelly, who was recently cleared to play, is set to take the field after his performance in the CFL Eastern Division final against the Montreal Alouettes in Toronto on November 11, 2023.
Chad Kelly, quarterback for the Toronto Argonauts, publicly apologized on Tuesday after being suspended by the CFL for violating its gender-based violence policy. His apology came shortly after his reinstatement by the league, following a suspension that lasted two exhibition games and at least the first nine regular-season matches.
Speaking to the media at Toronto's Lamport Stadium, Kelly expressed regret over his actions, acknowledging the impact they had on various people in his life, including teammates, coaches, and women. "I'm sorry for what I did," Kelly said. "I affected a lot of people—my teammates, my coaches, women, my family. I feel bad for the situation that happened."
While Kelly did not specify the actions that led to his suspension, the issue stemmed from an independent investigation into a sexual harassment lawsuit filed against him by a former Argos strength-and-conditioning coach. The lawsuit, which also involved the team for wrongful dismissal, was settled in June through mediation. Kelly stated that he has learned and grown from the experience, emphasizing his commitment to becoming a better person and teammate moving forward.
Although the CFL reinstated Kelly, it imposed conditions that remain confidential. During his suspension, Kelly was required to undergo mandatory assessments by an independent expert and attend counselling sessions with a gender-based violence specialist. These sessions had to be completed to the CFL's satisfaction before Kelly could return to the field.
Reflecting on his past behavior, Kelly acknowledged the damage caused and expressed his intent to change. "For these months, you come to realize what had been done and who was affected," Kelly said. "Everyone deserves respect, regardless of gender."
The quarterback declined to disclose whether he had reached out to the complainant personally. However, he expressed determination to improve and continue learning from the situation. Kelly said he planned to resume community work and reconnect with younger fans and female supporters. "It's about being comfortable again, not only for me but for everyone else around me," Kelly added.
Kelly also met with CFL commissioner Randy Ambrosie, who was involved in the decision to reinstate him. Kelly expressed confidence in his ability to avoid repeating his mistakes, stating that he and Ambrosie had a mutual understanding about his future. "I know this mistake won't happen again," Kelly affirmed. "I'm committed to doing better."
The CFL's decision to reinstate Kelly came after receiving his confidential psychological assessment. The league completed an examination of the results with the help of experts before allowing him to return to the field.
As Kelly rejoined the team, Toronto head coach Ryan Dinwiddie expressed support for his quarterback, acknowledging Kelly's efforts to learn from the situation. Kelly is set to start in Thursday night's game against the Saskatchewan Roughriders, marking his return to the field. The Argonauts also released sophomore quarterback Bryan Scott to make room for Kelly in the lineup.
