Calvin Ridley, a member of the Atlanta Falcons, has been suspended for at least the next two seasons for gambling on games.
The league said he gambled on games over a five-day period in November when he was on the non- football injury list while dealing with mental health issues.
On Halloween, Ridley said he needed to get his personal issues in order.
The integrity of the game is the most important aspect of the league's success, and it is something that the commissioner of the league wants to uphold. The integrity of the game, public confidence in professional football, and the reputation of your fellow players are all at risk because of your actions.
For decades, gambling on NFL games has been considered among the most significant violations of league policy warranting the most substantial sanction. I acknowledge and commend you for promptly reporting for an interview and admitting your actions.
There was no evidence that any of the Falcons coaches, staff or players were aware of his betting activity.
"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." Roger Goodell, in letter to Calvin Ridley
The earliest that Ridley can apply for reinstatement is in Feb. 15, 2023.
The collective bargaining agreement states that he can appeal the suspension within three days. It is not known if he has appealed the punishment.
Multiple teams contacted the Falcons in recent weeks to inquire about trading for the wide receiver, but each time, Atlanta declined to enter into any talks out of good faith, knowing the issues in store for their star player, according to sources.
The Falcons said they are preparing for a different season in the future.
We were first made aware of the investigation on Feb. 9. The team said in a statement that they have cooperated fully with the investigation since receiving notice. With the decision that was made by the NFL, any further questions on the investigation should be directed to the league office.
Atlanta has one receiver from the 53-man roster last season under contract, Frank Darby.
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