Chad Kelly: From NFL Draft Enigma to Toronto Argonauts Quarterback
Early Life and Career
Born on March 26, 1994, in Buffalo, New York, Chad Patrick Kelly Jr. is the son of former NFL quarterback Chad Kelly Sr. and Erin Kelly. He attended St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute in Orchard Park, New York, where he excelled as a quarterback, leading the team to a state championship in 2011.
Kelly enrolled at the University of Clemson in 2012, where he played backup to Deshaun Watson. In 2014, he transferred to Ole Miss, where he became the starting quarterback in 2015. Kelly had a breakout season, throwing for 4,042 yards and 31 touchdowns, while leading the Rebels to a 10-3 record.
NFL Draft and Denver Broncos
Kelly entered the 2017 NFL Draft as a highly-rated prospect, but concerns about his off-field behavior and injuries led to him being selected in the seventh round, 253rd overall, by the Denver Broncos. He was the final pick in that year's draft, earning him the nickname "Mr. Irrelevant."
Injury Struggles and Release
Kelly faced numerous injuries during his time with the Broncos, including a torn ACL that kept him out of the 2017 season. He appeared in only two games for Denver, completing 4 of 10 passes for 85 yards. In 2018, he was waived by the Broncos and later signed by the Indianapolis Colts, but was released without ever playing a game.
Second Chance in Canada
In 2019, Kelly signed with the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League (CFL). In his first season, he started 12 games and threw for 3,128 yards and 21 touchdowns, leading the Argonauts to a 7-11 record. In 2021, he led Toronto to a 4-14 record, starting 11 games and throwing for 2,441 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Off-Field Issues
Kelly has had a troubled history off the field. In 2015, he was arrested for reckless driving, speeding, and leaving the scene of an accident. In 2018, he was involved in a bar fight that resulted in felony assault charges, which were later dismissed. Despite these incidents, Kelly has expressed regret for his past actions and has focused on improving his behavior.
Latest Stats
As of the 2021 CFL season, Kelly's career stats include:
- Games played: 23
- Starts: 19
- Passing yards: 5,569
- Passing touchdowns: 35
- Completion percentage: 60.2%
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