Former Ole Miss QB Chad Kelly becomes highest-paid player in CFL

The Toronto Argonauts have made former Ole Miss quarterback Chad Kelly the highest-paid player in the Canadian Football League (CFL).

Kelly signed a three-year, $1.865 million deal with the Argonauts. He will receive a $250,000 signing bonus in 2024, however, it will be invalidated should he sign with an NFL team between December 2023 and February 2024, according to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.

“I couldn’t be happier to sign this extension and proudly represent the historic Double Blue. 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,” Kelly said. “I want to thank each one of you for your unwavering support over the last two years… 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.”

Chad Kelly one year removed from Grey Cup victory

Kelly, 29, has been productive during the ongoing 2023 season. In nine games, he’s completed 149-of-213 passes, throwing for 2,402 yards with 16 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He’s added 135 yards on the ground and six scores. Kelly was thrust into action after an injury to starting quarterback McLeon Bethel-Thompson during last season’s Grey Cup, leading Toronto to its record 18th championship.

“Chad’s play on the field and leadership off the field make him the perfect fit for us here in Toronto,” Argonauts head coach Ryan Dinwiddie said. “You’ve seen what he’s done so far this season… We have no doubt the best is still yet to come with Chad. He is a player who can lead us to where we are trying to go… That is to compete consistently for Grey Cups each year. We are beyond thrilled he is our guy going forward.”

Kelly, “Mr. Irrelevant” of the 2017 NFL Draft, signed with the Argonauts last season. Prior to his CFL career, he had stints with the Denver Broncos and Indianapolis Colts. He played in 22 games over two seasons at Ole Miss. Kelly famously led the Rebels to a 43-37 road victory over No. 2 Alabama in 2015.