NFL: Double standard on gambling rules?

The National Football League (NFL) has suspended several players in recent weeks and months. The US professional football league has accused the players concerned of violating gambling rules. But some professionals say the league's rules are a bit of a double standard. Could this be true?

The NFL has now suspended several players - three indefinitely - for allegedly flouting the league's gambling policy. So far, 22-year-old Jameson Williams, Quintez Cephus (25), Stanley Berryhill (24), Shaka Toney (25) and C.J. Moore (27) have been suspended. A few days ago, it was announced that Eyioma Uwazurike of the Denver Broncos had also been suspended for illegal gambling.

NFL generiert Werbeeinnahmen durch Wettanbieter

The US professional football league is taking high-profile action against NFL players who violate the league's gambling rules. At the same time, the NFL generates significant advertising revenue through several sports betting companies. However, the current rules prohibit players from placing bets in NFL facilities.

NFL player Jonathan Jones, who plays for the New England Patriots, is angry about this apparent double standard and released the following statement on Twitter:

"I understand that rules are rules, but I can risk my life for my team to win. But I can't risk $1,000 for my team to win!“

Should NFL pros be allowed to place bets?

There is currently a debate about whether professional NFL players should be able to place bets themselves. This could lead to distortions of competition or even betting fraud. In March 2021, for example, we reported on suspicions of illegal betting on the Super Bowl. To solve this problem, it has been suggested that betting by NFL professionals should be limited to betting on their own team.

Professional footballer Isaiah Rogers, who plays for the Indianapolis Colts, was also banned a few weeks ago. The 25-year-old admitted his wrongdoing and apologised publicly for opening an account with a bookmaker in the name of a friend and placing more than 100 bets on it. His club subsequently terminated the professional's contract.

Conclusion

The NFL has been accused of applying a double standard when it comes to gambling regulations. The rules only prohibit professionals from betting on league games. Betting on training ground and away games is not allowed either. However, these rules do not really conflict with the fact that the NFL generates advertising revenue through sportsbooks. Talking about a double standard in this case seems a bit exaggerated.

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