Chad Kelly, the nephew of NFL Hall of Famer Jim Kelly, is no longer a part of the chase to be the Clemson Tigers starting QB. In fact, he is no longer even on the team following Dabo Swinney’s announcement Monday afternoon:
“I have dismissed Chad Kelly for conduct detrimental to our program,” stated Swinney. “He has had a pattern of behavior that is not consistent with the values of our program. I hope he will mature and grow from this and become the man and player I know he can be. I wish him nothing but the best in the future academically and athletically.”
There reportedly was an argument between Kelly and the coaching staff during the team’s Orange and White game on Saturday. According to an AP report he disagreed with their decision regarding going for it on a fourth down play. He was benched during the second half of the game following two interceptions. Kelly, a sophomore, was in a three-way race for the starting QB slot competing against senior Cole Stoudt and freshman Deshaun Watson.
So, keep in mind I don’t watch Clemson so have no particular interest in the team – but hats off to the Clemson staff for having standards and not bending the rules. Given his family connection and the way gifted athletes are given a free pass, it is nice to see what from a distance looks like something often missing: leadership.
What do you think?
