NFL Enlists Tom Brady to Warn Players on League's Gambling Regulations
Tom Brady, the legendary football player, isn't returning to the field, but he's still pulling some strings in the NFL. He's been drafted by the league to spread the word on their betting rules to players, coaches, and team staff.
At 45, Brady, who's often hailed as the best quarterback ever, has an impressive record with seven Super Bowl wins and five MVP titles. After retiring for a second time following the 2022 season, his Tampa Bay Buccaneers struggled, ending with an 8-9 record and a wild-card round defeat to the Dallas Cowboys.
However, Brady isn't entirely walking away. Instead, he's giving back by educating the upcoming NFL talent about the risks of participating in sports betting while being a pro athlete.
The NFL's betting policy strictly prohibits all players, coaches, executives, and other team personnel from placing bets on NFL games. There are no loopholes, like betting on games where they aren't participating.
The policy also extends to betting on all other sports while at NFL facilities. But when away from the team, wagering on sports like baseball and golf is permitted.
Brady's Public Announcement
According to 9News, a Denver-based NBC affiliate, Brady recently recorded a public service announcement that the NFL plans to make all teams show to their players and staff during the offseason.
9News reporter Mike Klis reports that, in the video, Brady discusses the honor bestowed upon him to play in the NFL and warns players and other NFL personnel about gambling on NFL games, as it poses a threat to the league's integrity. He reportedly emphasizes that violating the NFL's gambling policy damages the league and team's reputation.
In conclusion, Brady's message advises players to uphold the league's betting guidelines. He reminds them that they are the guardians of the league and bear the responsibility of keeping it the "greatest league in the world."
Players in Trouble
Recently, the NFL has had to address several instances of players violating the gambling policy.
In April, five players were suspended after an investigation revealed they had wagered on sports. Wide receiver Quintez Cephus and safety C.J. Moore of the Detroit Lions, along with defensive end Shaka Toney of the Washington Commanders, received indefinite suspensions for betting on NFL games.
The Lions subsequently released Cephus and Moore. Wideouts Stanley Berryhill and Jameson Williams received six-game suspensions for betting on sports, but not on NFL games.
This week, the NFL launched another investigation, this time into the betting activities of Indianapolis Colts cornerback Isaiah Rodgers. Rodgers admitted to a mistake on Twitter, and the NFL review is still in progress, with a lengthy suspension expected.
