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Four Detroit Lions players and one defensive end from the Washington Commanders have been suspended for violation of the league's gambling policy prohibiting bets on NFL games.
2022 first-round pick Jameson Williams was among the Lions players suspended, though it found he did not gamble on NFL games but instead placed the wagers at a Lions facility.
Lions wide receiver Quintez Cephus, Lions safety C.J. Moore and Washington Commanders Shaka Toney have been suspended indefinitely for betting on NFL games. They can reapply for reinstatement after one year, although Detroit announced that its two players have been released.
Second-year wide receivers Williams and Stanley Berryhill are being suspended for six games. Berryhill also was not found to have bet on NFL games.
The league also found that insider information was used to place the bets.
The Lions were already aware of the ongoing investigation with a number of staffers released from their duties last month for league gambling violations.
"As a result of an NFL investigation, it came to our attention that a few of our players had violated the league's gambling policy," Detroit general manager Brad Holmes said in a statement. "These players exhibited decision making that is not consistent with our organizational values and violates league rules. We have made the decision to part ways with Quintez and C.J. immediately. We are disappointed by the decision making demonstrated by Stanley and Jameson and will work with both players to ensure they understand the severity of these violations and have clarity on the league rules moving forward."
The Commanders, a team that was sold in recent days, also issued a statement.
"We have cooperated fully with the NFL's investigation since receiving notice and support the league's findings and actions," the team said. "All further questions on the topic should be directed to the NFL League Office."
After recuperating from an ACL injury, Williams made his debut December 3 against the Jacksonville Jaguars and had his first career reception the following week, 41-yard receiving touchdown. In Week 17, Williams had a 40-yard rush in a 41–10 victory over the Chicago Bears.
Williams' representation, Alliance Sports, released a statement of apology on behalf of the wide receiver.
"Jameson takes full responsibility for his actions and is very apologetic to the NFL, his teammates and the fans and city of Detroit," Alliance Sports said. "However, it is important to note that Jameson's violation was not for betting on football but rather due to a technical rule regarding the actual location in which the online bet was placed -- and which would otherwise be allowed by the NFL outside of the club's facility. Jameson would never intentionally jeopardize the integrity of the game he loves so much and looks forward to getting back to his team as soon as possible."
Williams and Berryhill can participate in some team activities during the preseason but will be unable to play during until Week 7 of the regular season.
- Don Shapiro, Gambling911.com
