The NFL has opted for an educational approach instead of suspending two players who were caught making a friendly wager on who would win the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. Malik Nabers, a wide receiver for the New York Giants, and Jayden Daniels, a quarterback for the Washington Commanders, canceled the bet once they realized it violated league gambling policies. Despite canceling the bet, they still faced consequences, but were given multiple education training sessions instead of suspensions.
NFL Executive Vice President of Communications Jeff Miller stated that the league addressed the matter with the NFL Players Association, the two teams, and the players involved to ensure they understood the policy. Both Nabers and Daniels received education training sessions following the incident, and the league is content with the resolution.
Nabers initially disclosed the wager during a podcast appearance, which was later confirmed by Daniels on another podcast. Daniels admitted that they were unaware of the NFL’s gambling policy and canceled the bet to avoid trouble. Nabers also mentioned that he is now educated on sports betting and gambling and emphasized that it was simply a friendly wager to motivate each other.
The NFL has not issued any suspensions for gambling violations in over a year, as the league aims to use violations as educational opportunities. Players receive in-person gambling education sessions, with six main rules emphasized by the NFL to avoid suspension:
1. Never bet on the NFL or other NFL events.
2. Do not have someone else place bets on your behalf.
3. Avoid gambling at team facilities, stadiums, team hotels, or while traveling for road games.
4. Do not share confidential team information.
5. Refrain from entering sportsbooks during the NFL season.
6. Do not participate in daily fantasy football.
The NFL has appointed integrity representatives, often retired law enforcement officials, to each team to provide training and education on gambling policies. This approach aims to prevent future gambling violations and ensure that players are aware of the rules and consequences related to gambling within the league.