The Canadian Football League (CFL) has taken decisive action by suspending Toronto Argonauts quarterback for at least nine regular-season games due to a violation of its gender-based violence policy. The suspension comes following an investigation into a lawsuit filed by a former strength and conditioning coach against both the player and the club.
In addition to the regular-season games, the CFL has also suspended the player for Toronto's two preseason games. The league has mandated that the quarterback undergo confidential assessments by an independent expert and attend mandatory counselling sessions conducted by a gender-based violence expert.
For the player to be considered for reinstatement, he must satisfactorily complete both the counselling sessions and assessments. The CFL has reserved the right to modify his discipline if these conditions are not met.
The quarterback, who was named the CFL's outstanding player last season, led Toronto to a league-best and franchise-record 16-2 record. However, the Argos' season came to an end with a 38-17 home loss to eventual Grey Cup-champion Montreal in the East Division final.
There has been no announcement regarding any penalties or sanctions against the Argos at this time. The league has stated that the club's conduct in this matter, as outlined by the investigators, will be reviewed.
Prior to his CFL career, the quarterback played college football at Clemson, East Mississippi Community College, and Mississippi. He was the final pick in the 2017 NFL draft, selected by the Denver Broncos, but was released in 2018 following an arrest for criminal trespassing.
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