Argos sign Kelly to 3-year extension

The Toronto Argonauts are signing quarterback Chad Kelly to a three-year extension, the team announced Thursday.

The deal is worth a league-high $1.865 million, according to TSN's Farhan Lalji. Kelly will also receive a raise for the current campaign and converted performance bonuses to hard dollars, Lalji adds.

Kelly, 29, is in his first year as the starter for the Boatmen and playing at an elite level. The team is currently a CFL East-leading 8-1, and Kelly leads the entire league in rushing touchdowns (six) and passer rating (118.7).

"I couldn’t be happier to sign this extension and proudly represent the historic Double Blue," said Kelly, per the team's website. "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."

The Argonauts are defending their 2022 Grey Cup championship after downing the Winnipeg Blue Bombers 24-23 in last year's title game. Kelly entered the game in the fourth quarter and threw for 43 yards on four-of-six passing while adding 21 yards on the ground.

General manager and franchise icon Michael “Pinball” Clemons is ecstatic to keep Kelly in the Double Blue.

"The level of exhilaration on this day is only rivaled by the excitement Chad Kelly provides every time he takes the field!” said Clemons. "Mr. Kelly has led this team from the offseason back in the winter to a team that’s become a consistent winner."

Kelly has thrown for 2,402 yards and 16 scores on 149-of-213 (70%) passing this season, ranking fourth, third, and second in the CFL, respectively.