It is still several weeks before the NFL players have to begin reporting to camp and even longer before the first game of the 2023/24 season.  But the NFL has suspended a number of players…for gambling!

Three players have been suspended indefinitely; while two others have received a six game suspension.

While the players did not bet on football games, they did place the bets while at the NFL facilities.

Detroit Lions wide receiver Quintez Cephus, Detroit Lions safety C.J. Moore, and Washington Commanders defensive end Shaka Toney have all been suspended indefinitely but can apply for reinstatement at the end of the season.

Detroit Lions wide receivers Stanley Berryhill and Jameson Williams have each been suspended for the first six regular season games.  While suspended Berryhill and Williams will be allowed to participate in off-season and pre-season activities; including the games.  The suspensions will begin once the final cut has been made for the season rosters.

Speaking on the ruling the NFL said that, “a “league review uncovered no evidence indicating any inside information was used or that any game was compromised in any way.”

The Lions have released both Quintez Cephus and safety C.J. Moore.  Cephus has caught 37 passes over the past three seasons and Moore has started only one game in the past four seasons.

Speaking on their decision, Lions executive vice president and general manager Brad Holmes said the two released players, “exhibited decision making that is not consistent with our organizational values and violates league rules.” 

Alliance Sports who represents the 12th overall draft pick Jameson Williams last year noted that Williams is “apologetic to the NFL, his teammates and the fans and city of Detroit.”  Adding that the suspension was due to a “technical rule regarding the actual location in which the online bet was placed — and which would otherwise be allowed by the NFL outside of the club’s facility.” 

Holmes noted that the Lions would be working with Williams and Stanley Berryhill, “to ensure they understand the severity of these violations and have clarity on the league rules moving forward.”

The Commanders stated that they have “cooperated fully with the NFL’s investigation since receiving notice and support the league’s findings and actions,” on Shaka Toney who has started only one game in the past two seasons with the Commanders.

With sports betting being legal in many states, it is not hard to find a betting facility in and around the stadiums.  Plus there are a number of mobile sports book apps where fans can place their bets.

In an effort to control “excessive” sports betting advertisements, professional leagues, including the NFL, have created the Coalition of Responsible Sports Betting Advertising.