The NFL reminded its players on Friday about the strict prohibition against illegal gambling and betting on league games.
In a memo obtained by The Associated Press, the league requested all 32 teams to emphasize key points of its gambling policy and ensure its availability to players.
“We all have a responsibility to protect the integrity of the Shield by ensuring that our game is played fairly, honestly and to the best of a player’s ability,” the NFL management council stated in the memo. “NFL players must also take appropriate steps to safeguard the game against gambling-related risks that may undermine the confidence and trust of the fans.”
This reminder comes in the wake of a federal investigation into illegal gambling, which led to the arrests of NBA coach Chauncey Billups from the Portland Trail Blazers and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier.
“These developments underscore the risks that all sports are facing in the current environment and serve as a reminder of the need to adhere strictly to the NFL gambling policy,” the NFL reiterated.
According to the NFL’s regulations, players must not:
- Place any bet on NFL football.
- Alter or manipulate any NFL game or its outcomes.
- Share any confidential, non-public information regarding NFL games, players, or events with third parties.
“This topic arises every year,” stated Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton. “There are a certain number of presentations. It weighs heavily. … It obviously impacts the sports world and someone who is a close friend to many of us, myself included, and it’s disappointing. So clearly, none of it is worth it. … We must remain vigilant about this.”
The NFL Players Association issued a similar memo, advising players against betting on the NFL, gambling on team premises, having others place bets on their behalf, or engaging with sportsbooks during the NFL season.
NFL players are permitted to make legal bets on other sports as long as they are outside of club property and not traveling with the team. They can also join traditional fantasy football leagues with prize money capped at $250 and can legally gamble at casinos during personal time.
