The NFL and Commissioner Roger Goodell continue to face a battle against betting. After already having punished multiple players for violating the league’s gambling policy – most notably Lions receiver Jameson Williams – another one is busted. Broncos defensive end Eyioma Uwazurike was suspended indefinitely on Monday.
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Uwazurike becomes the 10th player thus far who has faced the flop this offseason for gambling-related activities, as the game’s difficulties continue to stack up. The NFL wants to get a hand on this high-stakes situation amongst its players, especially amidst whispers that some high-profile showdowns have appeared a little… shady recently. During the 2022 postseason, several key plays came into question by observers on social media, with The League having to publicly address that nothing is actually going on under the table.
The speculation went so far that some fans even started a ridiculous online trope that the game is “scripted” – like professional wrestling. Which would be laughable, if it didn’t also have real-world consequences. The conspiracies come while the NFL is also partnered with legal gambling sites like FanDuel, which encourage faithful football followers to bet. (Responsibly, of course.)
So, in many ways, it’s a mixed bag. While the revenue and interest are good for the game, the elements that it introduces can be toxic. However, that only happens if the individual players decide to cross that line.
RELATED: Detroit Lions’ Jameson Williams Among 5 NFL Players Suspended For Gambling
As always, the Denver organization took the usual, limited-liability stance when addressing the matter.
“Our organization fully cooperated with this investigation and takes matters pertaining to the integrity of the game very seriously,” the Broncos said in a statement. “The Denver Broncos will continue to provide all members of our organization with the necessary education, resources, and support to ensure compliance with the NFL’s gambling policy.”
Uwazurike, a fourth-round draft pick from Iowa State in 2022 who played in eight games as a rookie, will be eligible to petition for reinstatement no earlier than July 24, 2024.
And just as a reminder while you think about NFL players gambling – the league minimum salary is $750,000. None of these guys are hurting for cash.
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