Atlanta Falcons player suspended in NFL betting furore
Wide receiver Calvin Ridley found to have placed bets in Florida while injured
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Calvin Ridley has been suspended until at least the end of the 2022 season for betting on NFL games during the 2021 NFL season.
Ridley placed bets during a five-day period in late November 2021 while on the club’s non-football illness list. At the time, Ridley was not with his Atlanta Falcons teammates and was away from the club’s facilities.
An investigation carried out by the NFL into the betting uncovered no evidence indicating inside information was used as part of the bets, with the sport’s governing body asserting that no game was “compromised in any way.”
In addition, the NFL has affirmed that there was no evidence of any awareness of these activities by coaches, staff, teammates, or any other affiliate players.
Ridley admitted to betting on games following an interview with representatives from the NFL.
Media reports have claimed Ridley placed the bets in Florida using the Hard Rock sportsbook, which was shuttered in December 2021 due to pending legal action relating to the Seminole’s compact with the Sunshine State.
It is understood the bets taken were flagged by Hard Rock’s data partner, Genius Sports, which reported the betting to the NFL.
In the wake of the suspension, Ridley took to Twitter to address his suspension from the NFL, confirming the bets concerned and refuting claims that he was addicted to gambling.
I bet 1500 total I don’t have a gambling problem
— CALVIN RIDLEY (@CalvinRidley1) March 7, 2022
I know I was wrong But I’m getting 1 year lol
— CALVIN RIDLEY (@CalvinRidley1) March 7, 2022
Several users took aim at US-facing sportsbooks and state lobbying interests in the sector for encouraging these activities, while others questioned the players conduct during the season.
Broseph, you’re not the problem. The lobbyists who’ve pushed for legalized gambling and the owners of all the betting apps are the problem. Honestly think the @NFL is hurt more by your talent and skill not being on the field than you are. You’re a beast and a pleasure to watch.
— Jack Zullo 🎭 (@JackZullo) March 7, 2022
Legalized gambling is not the problem. Players who can't follow the rules, or do better and hiding the fact that they are , is the problem.
— Reg Bamford (@Big12Bam) March 7, 2022
The NFL has faced a number of integrity challenges over the last 18 months including the suspension of Arizona Cardinals player Josh James for similar betting offences. Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross is currently under investigation for allegedly bribing the Dolphins’ head coach to lose games.
In a letter to Ridley notifying him of his suspension, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell slammed the player, questioning his conduct over the affair.
“There is nothing more fundamental to the NFL’s success – and to the reputation of everyone associated with our league – than upholding the integrity of the game,” Goodell wrote.
“This is the responsibility of every player, coach, owner, game official, and anyone else employed in the league.”
Goodell continued: “Your actions put the integrity of the game at risk, threatened to damage public confidence in professional football, and potentially undermined the reputations of your fellow players throughout the NFL.
“For decades, gambling on NFL games has been considered among the most significant violations of league policy warranting the most substantial sanction.
“In your case, I acknowledge and commend you for your promptly reporting for an interview, and for admitting your actions,” the NFL commissioner added.
According to NFL procedures, Ridley may petition for reinstatement in the league on or after February 15, 2023. The player may also appeal his suspension within a three-day period under the NFL-NFLPA Collective Bargaining Agreement.
The NFL has existing marketing partnerships with a number of US operators, having previously reneged on its anti-gambling stance following the explosion in legalized sports betting.
In October, the NFL kicked off a $6.2m responsible gambling campaign in partnership with the National Council on Problem Gambling.