Argonauts reportedly dismiss VP of player personnel Chris Murphy

Chris Murphy is no longer employed by the Toronto Argonauts, as a result of his altercation with Hamilton Tiger-Cats fans following last week’s East Final loss.

The Toronto Argonauts are set to announce the dismissal VP of player personnel Chris Murphy. The news was first reported by the Toronto Sun‘s Frank Zicarelli.

The Argonauts will not officially confirm their decision until Monday, due to the CFL’s blanket coverage of the 108th Grey Cup. Regardless, this was a necessary and widely anticipated move.

Murphy was suspended indefinitely by the CFL last Wednesday, due to his part in an altercation between Argonauts players and Tiger-Cats fans following the East Final at BMO Field. Video footage captured the incident, which was subsequently widely circulated on social media.

Emotions were understandably running high, after the Double Blue gave up a 12-0 half-time lead and cost themselves a place in the Grey Cup. Regardless, better conduct is expected from members of the Argos’ front office.

There has been some criticism as to why MLSE had not already officially dismissed Murphy. However, aside from not compromising the buildup to the Grey Cup, they likely wanted to make sure they reviewed all available evidence and interviewed relevant personnel before making such an important decision.

Murphy has been with the Argonauts since 2019, when he was hired by former general manager Jim Popp. He was subsequently promoted to VP of player personnel following the dismissal of Popp.

Murphy’s tenure as VP of player personnel was often criticised, highlighted by his decision to trade away QB Zach Collaros. Even without the benefit of hindsight, this was a bad move.

Similarly, Murphy’s decision to sign 2019 Most Outstanding Rookie Nate Holley seemed to be tone deaf. The CFL confirmed they would not register his contract in accordance with their Violence Against Women Policy.

Interestingly, Murphy seemed to have more success when it came to coaching personnel. He was instrumental in bringing in Ryan Dinwiddie, who went 9-5-0 and won the East Division in his first season as head coach.

In addition, as per Zicarelli, Murphy reached out to Chris Jones after defensive co-ordinator Glen Young refused to get double-vaccinated. Jones previously helped the Argonauts win the 100th Grey Cup, before going on to join head coaching success in Edmonton and Saskatchewan.

Plenty of Argos fans will be hoping the dismissal of Murphy serves as a catalyst to revamp the front office. Pending what moves the franchise makes, more stability could see them take the next step in 2022 and play on Grey Cup Sunday.

What moves would you like to see the Argonauts make during the off-season? Is there anyone in particular you want brought into the organisation? Let us know in the comments section below.