Former Clemson quarterback Chad Kelly shared his apology to his coaches, teammates and family after being dismissed by the program earlier this week. The nephew of Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly said he let his family down.
''I let down not only my coaches, and teammates, but also Clemson University and all of our fans,’' Kelly said. ''Most importantly, I’ve let down myself and my family.’'
Kelly was booted from the team following an apparent meltdown during the spring game last weekend, but it was a pattern of poor behavior that ultimately cost him his spot on the Clemson roster. Head coach Dabo Swinney stated a pattern of behavior as the reasoning behind the roster cut after it was reported Kelly was arguing with coaches over play calling in the spring game.
''He has had a pattern of behavior that is not consistent with the values of our program,’' Swinney said earlier this week. ''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.’'
Kelly understands and agrees with that thought as well.
''I let my emotions get the best of me, culminating in this unfortunate situation with coach Swinney and the Clemson Tigers,’' Kelly said. ''What’s most important now is that I use this experience to grow as a student, as an athlete and most importantly, as a man.’'
The apology may be too little, too late as far as his position with Clemson is concerned. Clemson named Cole Stoudt as the starting quarterback to replace Tajh Boyd this upcoming season soon after the dismissal of Kelly.
