Infamous ex-NFL quarterback suspended by CFL

November 3, 2019; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Chad Kelly (6) warms up before playing against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Former NFL quarterback Chad Kelly had a standout season in the Canadian Football League last year, but he won’t have a chance to repeat the success in 2024.

The CFL announced in a news release Tuesday that Kelly has been suspended for at least nine games for violating the league’s gender-based violence policy.

As Pro Football Talk’s Michael David Smith notes, the suspension stems from a complaint filed by a woman who formerly worked as an assistant strength coach for the Toronto Argonauts. The woman accused Kelly of making romantic advances toward her and using threatening language when she was not receptive.

The CFL investigated the allegations and concluded that a suspension of at least nine games was warranted. The league did not provide details about the results of the investigation. Kelly must complete a counseling program before he can apply for reinstatement.

Kelly, the nephew of Buffalo Bills legend Jim Kelly, signed a record deal with the Argonauts last fall amid a stellar season. He led Toronto to a 15-1 regular season record, throwing for 4,123 yards, 23 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

Kelly was dismissed from Clemson for a myriad of reasons, one of which was his dispute with a former beauty queen. After transferring to Ole Miss, he played well but continued to have problems off the field.

The 29-year-old Kelly was selected as the final pick by the Denver Broncos in the 2017 NFL Draft. He couldn’t stay out of trouble in the NFL and didn’t have a long career.