The Toronto Argonauts have signed veteran quarterback Chad Kelly to a three-year contract extension, according to an official announcement by the team.
Kelly’s original two-year CFL contract was set to expire at season’s end, but now the new deal keeps him with the defending Grey Cup Champions through the 2026 season, assuming that an opportunity at the NFL level doesn’t arise.
Kelly’s new deal is worth $615,000 in 2024 and $625,000 in hard money in 2025 and 2026, and is due a $250,000 signing bonus in 2024.
Kelly is know for his critical play leading the Argonauts off the bench to the franchise’s 18th Grey Cup championship back in November, and that strong play has continued into 2023, where Kelly leads the league in passer rating (118.7) and rushing touchdowns (six) en route to an 8-1 record on the season.
Thus far, Kelly has thrown for 2,402 yards, completing 70% of his passes while throwing for 16 touchdowns and registering 22 total scores this season.
“I couldn’t be happier to sign this extension and proudly represent the historic Double Blue,” Kelly said of the new contract.
“Today marks not only a contract extension but an extension of my commitment to the amazing city of Toronto, my teammates, coaches, front office, and MLSE. I want to thank each one of you for your unwavering support over the last two years, and I look forward to leading this team to future Grey Cups. I also want to thank the Lord for providing me daily strength to do what I do best, my family for always being there for me throughout this process, and the team around me for making this all come together.
“The level of exhilaration on this day is only rivaled by the excitement Chad Kelly provides every time he takes the field!” said Boatmen General Manager Michael “Pinball” Clemons. “Today’s news is not just great for the Toronto Argonauts, it’s outstanding for our league. Not only has he played lights-out football, but he has seemed to raise the level of opposing quarterbacks we’ve faced. However, the greatest part of this story is what you don’t see. Mr. Kelly has led this team from the offseason back in the winter to a team that’s become a consistent winner. A competent voice, and a leader by example, he’s raised the level of his peers and prioritized the team amidst his All-Star stats! He arrives early and stays late…Phenomenal! On top of all that, Chad is, and will continue to be, a pillar for us in the team’s commitment to the community and youth football development in Toronto”.
