It seems the Edmonton Elks’ quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson just can’t keep out of hot water. The 36-year-old veteran has found himself facing the CFL’s disciplinary board once again, earning a third fine this season for “bringing the league into disrepute” following his criticism of officiating in Week 18.
After a controversial loss to the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Bethel-Thompson didn’t hold back in expressing his frustration. His ire focused on a crucial fourth-quarter video review that overturned a goal-line catch by teammate Javon Leake. The quarterback blasted the decision as “bogus” and “ridiculous,” arguing that the play shouldn’t have been reviewed without a coach’s challenge.
However, Bethel-Thompson’s frustrations were misguided, as the CFL has automatically reviewed all potential scoring plays since 2018, a rule he’s played under for his entire CFL career. This didn’t stop the league from issuing him another fine, the third this year after two previous penalties for criticizing the schedule’s structure, which Bethel-Thompson has called unsafe due to short rest periods between games.
While the fine amount remains undisclosed, the maximum penalty allowed under the collective bargaining agreement is half of a game cheque. This series of events paints a challenging season for the Elks’ quarterback, whose relationship with the league office has become increasingly strained.
The Elks (5-11) are officially eliminated from playoff contention, and Bethel-Thompson will sit out when Edmonton faces the Calgary Stampeders (4-10-1) on Saturday. His absence caps off a tough season both on and off the field, as his public disputes with the CFL show no sign of easing.
The fines didn’t stop with Bethel-Thompson; five other players were also disciplined for their actions in Week 18, highlighting a particularly contentious week in the league. However, none have garnered the same level of attention as the outspoken Edmonton quarterback.
For McLeod Bethel-Thompson, this season may be remembered less for his on-field play and more for his off-field battles with the CFL, leaving questions about how this could affect his future in the league.