Toronto Argonauts quarterback Chad Kelly issued a public apology on Tuesday for behavior that resulted in a suspension due to a breach of the Canadian Football League’s gender-based violence policy.
Kelly’s apology came shortly after his reinstatement by the league under certain conditions. He had been suspended on May 7 from Toronto’s two exhibition games and at least the first nine regular-season games for his infraction.
“I’m sorry for my actions and what I did,” Kelly said after practice at Lamport Stadium. “I’ve impacted many people—my teammates, coaches, women, and my family. I regret the situation that occurred.”
“I’ve grown and learned not just from the past few months but from every day. I’m constantly working to improve myself, to be a better person, teammate, and man. I want everyone to know I’m sorry and that I am committed to being a better teammate and person moving forward.”
The CFL stated on Sunday that the terms of Kelly’s reinstatement are confidential and will not be made public.
Kelly, nephew of NFL Hall of Famer Jim Kelly, did not provide specifics about the actions that led to his suspension. The suspension followed an independent investigation into a lawsuit filed by a former Argos strength and conditioning coach against Kelly for sexual harassment, and against the team for wrongful dismissal. This lawsuit was settled in June through mediation.
“I understand what needs to be done and what’s at stake each day,” Kelly said. “I’m grateful for the support I have around me, and I am committed to doing what it takes to stay on the football field and improve myself as a person.”
Initially, Kelly publicly refuted the harassment claims and stated his intention to defend himself and seek a dismissal. The CFL’s most outstanding player from last season mentioned that reflecting on the situation made him realize the extent of his actions.
“Over these months, I’ve come to understand the impact of what I’ve done,” he said. “The person who brought the complaint deserves respect, regardless of gender. Everyone puts in significant effort to perfect their craft, and no one should endure the emotional pain caused by such issues. … I’m focused on being there for my teammates and sharing what’s right and wrong.”
Kelly, 30, plans to resume his community work and reconnect with the Argos’ younger and female fans.
“You can choose to believe me or not, but I consider myself honest, genuine, and sincere,” he said. “I’m committed to improving, becoming better, and proving that to everyone.”
Kelly is set to start for the Toronto Argonauts (5-4) on Thursday night against the Saskatchewan Roughriders (5-4-1).
He played college football at Clemson, East Mississippi Community College, and Mississippi. Kelly was the final pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, chosen by the Denver Broncos, but was released by the team in 2018 following an arrest for criminal trespassing.
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