According to the NFL, the alleged wagering occurred during late November 2021 when Ridley was not at the club due to a non-football illness.
An investigation by the league found no evidence that any insider information was used, or that any game had been compromised. The NFL said that there was no evidence that any of the alleged betting had been known to coaches, staff, teammates or other players.
Commissioner Goodell sent Ridley a letter notifying him about his suspension. He wrote: “There’s nothing more fundamental to success for the NFL – and the reputation of all those associated with our league– than upholding integrity in the game. Every player, coach and owner of the league, as well as any other employees, must take this responsibility. Your actions could put the integrity and reputation of professional football at risk.
Ridley tweeted Monday: “I bet 1500 total, I don’t think I have a gambling problem.”
Monday’s statement by the Falcons stated that they were informed of the investigation on February 9th.
The team stated that they had cooperated fully with the investigation and supported the league’s actions and findings. With the NFL’s decision, we are moving forward with the 2022 season. The NFL has made the decision. Any questions regarding the investigation should be directed at the league office.
Ridley has three days to appeal the suspension. The league stated that Ridley can appeal his suspension within three days if he doesn’t appeal or if he does, the earliest he can petition for reinstatement would be February 15, 2023.
Ridley, 27 years old, only participated in five games for the Falcons last season. The Falcons’ matchup against New York Jets was cancelled on October 10. It was due to a “personal matter”. Ridley returned to the Falcons’ match against the Jets two weeks later after the team’s bye. On October 31, Ridley declared he would be taking a break football to “focus my mental wellbeing”. He did not play the rest of the season.
Ridley was named second team All-Pro in 2020 after he caught 90 passes for 1,374 yard and nine touchdowns.
Ridley was a first round selection in 2018. He won two national championships as part of the Alabama Crimson Tide.
