Gambling Accusations Lead To Indefinite Suspension For Falcons Receiver Calvin Riddley

ATLANTA, GA — Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Calvin Ridley is being suspended indefinitely for accusations that he violated the NFL’s gambling policy and bet on games during the 2021 season.

Ridley’s suspension will go at least through the 2022 season, league officials said. The NFL said that during a five-day stretch in late November while he was taking time off from playing for a non-football illness, the five-year veteran placed wagers on NFL games. He has requested the time off at the end of October to work on his mental wellbeing, Falcons officials said.

“We were first made aware of the league's investigation on Feb. 9,” a statement from the Falcons organization said. “We have cooperated fully with the investigation since receiving notice and support the league's findings and actions. We are moving forward in the 2022 season with the decision that was made. With the decision that was made by the NFL, any further questions on the investigation should be directed to the league office.”

In a letter to Riddley, Commissioner Rodger Goodell said he compromised the league with his actions.

“There is nothing more fundamental to the NFL's success - and to the reputation of everyone associated with our league - than upholding the integrity of the game,” Goodell wrote. “This is the responsibility of every player, coach, owner, game official, and anyone else employed in the league. Your actions put the integrity of the game at risk, threatened to damage public confidence in professional football, and potentially undermined the reputations of your fellow players throughout the NFL.”

Goodell’s message, made available with statements from the league, went on to note that Riddley took responsibility for his actions.

“For decades, gambling on NFL games has been considered among the most significant violations of league policy warranting the most substantial sanction,” Goodell wrote. “In your case, I acknowledge and commend you for your promptly reporting for an interview, and for admitting your actions.”

Riddley will have an opportunity to appeal the decision but otherwise will have to wait until Feb. 15, 2023, to apply for reinstatement to the league, according to league officials.

Selected 26th overall in the 2018 draft, he has 248 catches and 3,342 yards with 28 touchdowns over the course of four seasons. Riddley had only played five games for the Falcons in the 2021 season.