Suspended quarterback Kelly on the field at the Toronto Argonauts’ rookie camp

GUELPH, Ont. — Quarterback Chad Kelly, who is suspended for violating the CFL’s gender-based violence policy, was on the field Thursday at the Toronto Argonauts’ rookie camp.

Kelly’s appearance at the University of Guelph comes just two days after the CFL suspended its 2023 standout player for at least nine regular-season games after investigating a lawsuit filed against Kelly and the club by a former strength and conditioning coach .

Kelly is also suspended for Toronto’s two preseason games.

Argos Clemons general manager Mike (Pinball) told reporters that Kelly’s presence was within the league’s disciplinary guidelines.

Clemons said that should Kelly appeal the suspension – and theoretically be allowed to play pending an arbitration hearing – the Argos would make a decision at that time on any disciplinary action imposed by the team.

Kelly, 30, was on the field but had no equipment and appeared to be working with the Argos’ rookie quarterbacks.

Kelly was the CFL’s standout player last season after leading Toronto to a league-best 16-2 mark and a franchise record.

But the Argos’ campaign ended with a 38-17 loss to the Montreal Alouettes in the East Division final.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 9, 2024.

The Canadian Press