NFL Reminds All 32 Teams of Strict Gambling Ban Amidst Broader Sports Scandal

The National Football League (NFL) issued a stern reminder to all 32 teams on Friday, October 24, 2025, emphasizing its strict policy prohibiting players from gambling on league games or engaging in any form of illegal betting. This comprehensive memo urged teams to reinforce the rules and ensure their visibility to every player. The league's proactive stance follows a recent FBI investigation into illicit gambling activities that has implicated NBA personnel.

In its communication, the NFL management council underscored the critical importance of maintaining the sport's integrity. "We all have a responsibility to protect the integrity of the Shield by ensuring that our game is played fairly, honestly and to the best of a player's ability," the league wrote, stressing that fair play and fan trust are paramount and depend on keeping gambling out of the game. The memo highlighted that players must take appropriate steps to safeguard the game against related risks.

The league's reminder was prompted by an FBI investigation into illicit gambling activities, which recently led to the arrests of NBA coach Chauncey Billups and guard Terry Rozier, among others. The NFL stated, "These developments underscore the risks that all sports are facing in the current environment and serve as a reminder of the need to adhere strictly to the NFL gambling policy." The NFL Players Association also sent a similar memo to its members, reiterating the prohibitions.

Under the NFL's policy, players are strictly forbidden from placing any bets on NFL football, attempting to fix games, or sharing confidential, non-public information about any NFL game, player, or event. While players are allowed to legally bet on other sports when off club property and not traveling with the team, and participate in traditional fantasy football leagues with prize money under $250, these activities are subject to specific conditions. The league has previously suspended players, including Calvin Ridley and Jameson Williams, for gambling violations.