NFL Gambling Policy 2024: Betting Rules for Players, Coaches
Published:
Sep 3, 2024
,
05:51 p.m.
ET
The NFL has long maintained a strict stance on gambling to preserve the integrity of the game, but the 2024 season brings about new changes aimed at further reinforcing these policies. With the rise of legal sports betting across the United States since May 2018, the NFL has now introduced mandatory in-person gambling training for all players, highlighting the league’s commitment to ensuring all personnel are well-informed about the rules.
This article delves into the history of the NFL’s gambling policies, new regulations for 2024, notable controversies and the available treatment options for those struggling with gambling addiction.
History of the NFL’s gambling policies
The history of NFL gambling policies is shaped by America's complex relationship with gambling. In the early 20th century, the rise of sports betting was marred by scandals like the 1919 "Black Sox” baseball saga involving the Chicago White Sox, which damaged the already-questionable image of the sports betting industry and led to strict federal regulations. Despite the passing of legislation for gambling in Nevada in 1931, it wasn't until 1951 that sports betting became legal in the state, and a heavy tax hindered its growth. The landscape began to shift in the 1960s and ‘70s with the reduction of the federal sports betting tax, leading to a boom for legal sportsbooks, especially in Nevada.
Another significant change came with the 1992 Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), which banned sports betting nationwide, except in Nevada. This pushed much of the betting activity to illegal operators like local “bookies” and offshore sportsbooks.
However, the 2018 U.S. Supreme Court decision to overturn PASPA allowed states to legalize sports betting, marking a new era for the NFL. The league responded by strengthening its gambling policies to protect the integrity of the game in a national environment where sports betting is increasingly normalized and accessible.
Today, the six main rules for NFL players are:
New this year: Mandatory in-person NFL gambling trainings
One of the most significant changes to the NFL’s gambling policy in 2024 is the introduction of mandatory in-person gambling training for all players. While education on gambling rules has always been part of the NFL’s protocol, the shift to mandatory in-person training marks a new approach. Previously, players could opt out of attending these sessions in person, but the league has now recognized the benefits of face-to-face education.
The NFL’s chief compliance officer, Sabrina Perel, explained the reasoning behind the change: “We learned from last year when in-person education was optional, the benefits of presenting in-person, including increased engagement and awareness, the opportunity for players to ask questions.”
This hands-on approach is designed to ensure that players fully understand the rules, including the two most critical ones: never bet on NFL games and do not gamble while in any team-related capacity.
The in-person training sessions are conducted at team facilities during minicamps or training camp. These sessions are led by members of the NFL’s compliance team, the team’s head of player engagement (often a former player), or other former NFL players who have been trained to deliver the material effectively. This “train the trainer” method, exemplified by Hall of Fame guard Will Shields, who helped lead sessions for the Kansas City Chiefs, ensures that players receive the information from trusted sources with firsthand experience.
Additionally, there will now be an NFL Integrity Representative (typically retired FBI or Executive level police officers) assigned to each team. Their roles include:
Monitoring for suspicious activity on site on gamedays and liaises with local law enforcement, regulators, and NFL security.
Supporting investigations related to potential violations of the NFL Gambling Policy and other game integrity-related policies and procedures.
Serving as an additional resource to clubs & players for gambling or integrity-related questions/issues.
NFL sports betting controversies, punishments & suspensions
The NFL’s history is dotted with controversies surrounding gambling, with several high-profile suspensions serving as reminders of the league’s strict policies.
Paul Hornung and Alex Karras (1963)
The NFL’s first major scandal occurred in 1963 when Green Bay Packers halfback Paul Hornung and Detroit Lions defensive tackle Alex Karras were suspended for the entire season for betting on NFL games. Both players were later inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but their suspensions served as a stern warning to the rest of the league.
Art Schlichter (1983)
In 1983, Baltimore Colts quarterback Art Schlichter was suspended for the season after it was discovered that he had bet on at least 10 NFL games as a rookie. Schlichter’s gambling addiction ultimately derailed his career, and his story remains a cautionary tale.
Josh Shaw (2019)
Fast forward to the 21st century, and the NFL’s policies have only grown stricter. In 2019, Arizona Cardinals cornerback Josh Shaw was suspended for betting on an NFL game while on injured reserve.
Calvin Ridley (2022)
The league’s zero-tolerance approach to gambling violations continued in 2022 when Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Calvin Ridley was suspended for the entire season after it was revealed that he had placed bets on NFL games while away from the team.
Latest wave of suspensions (2023)
The 2023 offseason saw another wave of suspensions. Detroit Lions wide receiver Quintez Cephus, safety C.J. Moore, and Washington Commanders defensive end Shaka Toney were all suspended indefinitely for gambling on NFL games.
Detroit Lions wide receivers Jameson Williams and Stanley Berryhill received six-game suspensions for gambling violations.
Additionally, Indianapolis Colts cornerback Isaiah Rodgers Sr., defensive end Rashod Berry, and defensive tackle Demetrius Taylor were all suspended indefinitely and subsequently waived by the team.
Denver Broncos defensive end Eyioma Uwazurike also faced a one-year suspension for betting on league games.
These suspensions underscore the NFL’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport. The league’s enforcement of its gambling policies sends a clear message to players, coaches, and staff that violations will not be tolerated.
Gambling Addiction treatment options
Gambling addiction is a serious issue that affects not only players but also fans and the broader community. For those struggling with gambling addiction, specialized treatment options are available. Birches Health offers a range of services designed to help individuals overcome their gambling problems and regain control of their lives. Whether you’re seeking a free self-assessment, want to speak with a care coordinator, or would like to book an appointment with a licensed counselor, Birches Health is here to help:
You can also contact Birches directly by calling 833-483-3838 or emailing hello@bircheshealth.com. The Birches team can help you navigate the challenges of gambling addiction and support your journey to recovery.
