Former Denver Broncos quarterback and CFL MVP, Chad Kelly, has been suspended for the upcoming CFL preseason and a minimum of nine additional games following an investigation into allegations of gender-based violence. The investigation stemmed from accusations made by a former strength and conditioning assistant coach employed by the Toronto Argonauts, Kelly's team since 2022.

Earlier this year, Kelly was named in a lawsuit which claimed that he had made unwanted romantic advances and threatening comments towards the former assistant coach. The assistant coach's contract was not renewed by the Argonauts in January, and she is also suing the organization for damages.

On Tuesday, the CFL announced the findings of a third-party investigation, stating that Kelly had violated their gender-based violence policy. As a result, in addition to his suspension, the quarterback will be required to undergo confidential assessments by an independent expert and attend mandatory counseling sessions conducted by a gender-based violence expert.

CFL commissioner, Randy Ambrosie, emphasized the importance of players being ambassadors of the game, leaders in the locker room, and role models in the community. He stated, "It was important that we performed our due diligence to properly review this matter from all points of view. That in-depth investigation found that Mr. Kelly unequivocally violated the CFL's policies... Mr. Kelly's suspension is the direct result of his behavior... He must take full advantage of this opportunity for personal betterment in order to return to the CFL."

Kelly, who is the nephew of former Buffalo Bills Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly, had a successful season in 2023, leading the Argonauts to a franchise-best 16-2 record and reaching the division finals of the playoffs. However, this is not the first time Kelly has faced off-field issues in his football career. He was dismissed from Clemson University and later fell to the seventh round of the 2017 NFL Draft due to reported character concerns. In the NFL, he was released by the Broncos and served a two-game suspension while playing for the Indianapolis Colts.

The suspension serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining proper conduct both on and off the field for professional athletes. Kelly's future in the CFL will depend on his willingness to address and learn from the violations he has been found guilty of.