GamblersPost Gamblers Post is a dedicated news and networking portal in the online gambling industry which features news, opinions, interviews as well as product and software reviews.
Arizona Cardinals defensive back, Josh Shaw has been suspended by the National Football League (NFL) Commissioner Roger Goodell indefinitely through at least the conclusion of the 2020 season for betting on league’s games.
This is the first time in more than 35 years that an NFL player has been banned for gambling. Currently injured Shaw bet on multiple occasions this season and as reported by ESPN, one of his three-team parlay included result of Arizona Cardinals match. Reportedly, Shaw’s bet lost after the Cardinals got defeated in the game 30-27.
However, the NFL did not find any evidence that he received inside information nor that any of the games were compromised. There was also no evidence suggesting any awareness by teammates, coaches or other players of Shaw’s betting activity.
Shaw will not be able to apply for reinstatement until February 2021. He can, however, appeal his suspension by filing notice within three days per the NFL-NFLPA Collective Bargaining Agreement.
NFL rules and regulations state that NFL players, coaches or other personnel at a team are not permitted to place bets on league games.
“The continued success of the NFL depends directly on each of us doing everything necessary to safeguard the integrity of the game and the reputations of all who participate in the league,” stated NFL Commissioner.
“At the core of this responsibility is the longstanding principle that betting on NFL games, or on any element of a game, puts at risk the integrity of the game, damages public confidence in the NFL, and is forbidden under all circumstances. If you work in the NFL in any capacity, you may not bet on NFL football,” added Goodell.
Shaw gambling activity is a first reported breach of a large professional league’s gambling policy since the US Supreme Court paved the way to sports betting in the country by lifting the federal ban on the gambling activity in 2018. Since the ruling, legal sportsbooks have started operation in several US states other than Nevada.
