CFL, commissioner Jeffrey Orridge agree to part ways

Jeffrey Orridge will step down as CFL commissioner effective June 30, the league announced Wednesday.

"In his time with the CFL, Jeffrey worked tirelessly to promote player health and safety, the integrity of the League on and off the field, and the values of diversity and inclusion," CFL chairman Jim Lawson said in a statement.

Orridge, who was named commissioner in April 2015, cited both his passion for the league and his differing views on where it's headed.

"It has been an honour to serve as CFL Commissioner and help to prepare this historic league for the future by deepening our relationship with fans and sponsors, increasing its relevance with the next generation, and expanding our reach beyond Canada," he said. "While the board and I have differing views on the future of the league, we both believe passionately in this game, its players, its partners, and its fans. I wish the CFL great success in the future."

Orridge made headlines in the lead-up to the 2016 Grey Cup, saying there was no conclusive link between playing in the CFL and developing Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).

The league is facing a $200-million class action lawsuit led by former players Korey Banks and Eric Allen, who allege the league, former commissioner Mark Cohon, and a Toronto doctor withheld information on how repeated concussions can lead to long-term brain disorders.