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Denver Broncos defensive lineman Eyioma Uwazurike is the latest casualty of the NFL’s investigation into widespread gambling among its players.
Uwazurike has been suspended indefinitely for violating the league’s gambling policy after placing bets on games during the 2022 campaign.
Ian Rapoport @RapSheet
Another indefinite gambling suspension. <a href=”https://t.co/wqGo4y2hq9″>pic.twitter.com/wqGo4y2hq9</a>
He can apply for reinstatement in July 2024.
The Broncos said in a statement, per Parker Gabriel of the Denver Post:
“We were informed by the NFL today that Eyioma Uwazurike has been suspended by the league indefinitely for violating its gambling policy. Our organization fully cooperated with this investigation and takes matters pertaining to the integrity of the game very seriously. The Denver Broncos will continue to provide all members of our organization with the necessary education, resources and support to ensure compliance with the NFL’s Gambling Policy.”
Denver selected Uwazurike in the fourth round of the 2022 draft out of Iowa State. He appeared in eight games as a rookie, posting one pass breakup, 17 tackles and two quarterback hits.
The NFL launched an investigation into gambling across the league earlier this summer, and Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reported in June that the probe “could implicate a healthy number of guys from across the league.”
Indianapolis Colts players Isaiah Rodgers and Rashod Berry and free agent Demetrius Taylor were suspended indefinitely by the NFL last month for betting on games during the 2022 season. The Colts have since released Rodgers and Berry.
Free agents Quintez Cephus and C.J. Moore, who previously played for the Detroit Lions, and Washington Commanders defensive end Shaka Toney were also suspended indefinitely in April.
The NFL also suspended Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams and free agent Stanley Berryhill for six games in 2023 for placing bets on non-league games at the team’s facility.
The NFL is a major partner in the sports-betting industry, but it has strict gambling rules for its players. The league began reinforcing its gambling policy earlier this offseason, making sure players are aware they cannot:
- Bet on NFL games or place bets at team facilities, while traveling or staying at a team hotel.
- Have someone else bet for them.
- Share team “inside information.”
- Enter a sportsbook during the NFL season.
- Play daily fantasy football.
With the NFL season inching closer, it’s possible more suspensions could be on the horizon as the league continues its probe.