The NFL is addressing gambling suspensions with training and conversations with the players’ union

The NFL is taking measures to address gambling-related suspensions by implementing training programs and engaging in discussions with the players’ union.

Sabrina Perel, the NFL’s chief compliance officer, has been actively involved this spring in educating the league’s approximately 17,000 players, coaches, team personnel, and others about the league’s gambling policies. She has been visiting numerous NFL teams, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the policy at all times, as it has implications for the entire team.

Recently, the NFL suspended four additional players for violating its gambling policy, bringing the total number of disciplined players to 10 over the past two years. The league is committed to enhancing training efforts across the board to safeguard the integrity of the game.

Experts predict that these suspensions are indicative of a new reality for the NFL and other leagues, with more violations likely to occur in the future. However, they believe that it won’t reach a critical point that would cause fans to question the quality of the games.

In light of the growing association between the NFL and gambling companies, the league believes that extensive education efforts are crucial to preserve the game’s integrity. Jeff Miller, the NFL’s executive vice president of public affairs, emphasized the need to intensify educational initiatives.

Out of the players suspended for gambling policy violations since the beginning of 2022, three were disciplined for betting on non-NFL sports. Experts, like John Holden, a sports law and corruption of sport professor at Oklahoma State University, expect that there will be ongoing investigations leading to more revelations in the coming months.

Miller mentioned that the allowance for players to place wagers on other sports is not collectively bargained for, but it’s part of ongoing discussions with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA). The decision is not different from what other major leagues like the NBA, MLB, and NHL allow.

Conversations with the union will continue, and the NFLPA has yet to comment publicly on the recent suspensions. The union’s plans regarding the gambling policy infractions will likely be addressed in the future.

Players engaging in gambling on non-NFL games assume the responsibility of complying with the policy, according to David Weber, a sports law professor at Creighton University. Boomer Esiason, former NFL quarterback and CBS Sports analyst, emphasized that players cannot claim ignorance of the rules and should protect the integrity of the league by refraining from betting on it.

Regarding the league’s policy prohibiting coaches and other personnel from wagering on non-NFL sports, Perel stated that no changes are expected. The concern lies in the potential for individuals with inside information to engage in gambling activities, which could be detrimental to the league’s image and reputation.

In conclusion, the NFL is taking proactive steps to address gambling-related suspensions through training programs and discussions with the players’ union. The league aims to educate its personnel extensively and preserve the integrity of the game amidst the growing association with gambling companies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about gambling suspensions

More about gambling suspensions

• NFL’s official website
• NFL Players Association (NFLPA) official website
• AP Sports
• Twitter handle for AP Sports