The NFL has suspended five players, including the Detroit Lions’ 2022 first-round pick Jameson Williams, for betting on sports.
Four players from Detroit were among the five players caught violating the league’s gambling policy.
Five players violate NFL gambling policy
Williams and teammate Stanley Berryhill will serve six-game suspensions for placing online sports bets at the Lions’ Allen Park facility. Williams and Berryhill did not bet on NFL games, according to the team.
Wide receiver Quintez Cephus and safety C.J. Moore were the other Lions involved. Lions General Manager Brad Holmes said the team released Cephus and Moore effective immediately.
The league gambling policy prohibits anyone in the NFL from engaging in any form of gambling in any club, league facility or venue, including practice facilities. NFL personnel, including players, review the policy annually.
Holmes said in a statement:
“As a result of an NFL investigation, it came to our attention that a few of our players had violated the league’s gambling policy. These players exhibited decision making that is not consistent with our organizational values and violates league rules. We have made the decision to part ways with Quintez and C.J. immediately. We are disappointed by the decision making demonstrated by Stanley and Jameson and will work with both players to ensure they understand the severity of these violations and have clarity on the league rules moving forward.”
Several Lions staff members in various departments were also let go last month for violating the NFL gambling policy, according to ESPN.
Washington Commanders player also suspended
Washington Commanders defensive end Shaka Toney was the fifth player suspended by the league.
The Commanders said in a statement:
“We have cooperated fully with the NFL’s investigation since receiving notice and support the league’s findings and actions. All further questions on the topic should be directed to the NFL League Office.”
The NFL said Cephus, Moore and Toney will serve an indefinite suspension through 2023 season for betting on NFL games.
These players may petition for reinstatement after the 2023 season.
This is the first NFL gambling-related suspension since the league suspended Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver, Calvin Ridley. After betting on NFL games, the league suspended Ridley for the 2022 season.
