Suspended Argonauts QB Chad Kelly withdraws from camp, citing desire to minimize distractions

Suspended Toronto Argonauts quarterback Chad Kelly said he will withdraw from training camp and hopes to “learn, grow and better myself” through counseling after his suspension by the league.

Kelly released a statement Thursday through his agent, Chris Lambiris, announcing his decision.

The CFL suspended Kelly for at least nine regular-season games on May 7 following its investigation into a lawsuit filed by a former strength and conditioning coach against both the player and club.

Kelly is also suspended for Toronto’s two preseason games for violating its gender-based violence policy.

He will be required to undergo confidential assessments by an independent expert and attend mandatory counselling sessions conducted by a gender-based violence expert.

Kelly said he “will take full advantage of this counselling opportunity to learn, grow and better myself.”