Calvin Ridley suspended by NFL for 1 year for gambling on games; NFL releases statement
By Adam Spencer
Published:
Calvin Ridley, a former Alabama star receiver, had a tumultuous season for the Atlanta Falcons in 2021.
He only appeared in 5 games, recording 31 catches for 281 yards and 2 touchdowns — all career lows. He was on the trading block this offseason, but those plans might be on hold for now.
Per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Ridley has been suspended by the league for 1 year after allegedly gambling on NFL games during the season:
#Falcons WR Calvin Ridley has been suspended a year for gambling on NFL games during the season.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 7, 2022
Per a statement from the NFL, the gambling took place during a 5-day period in November while Ridley was not with the team:
Here is the full release from the NFL on Calvin Ridley: https://t.co/VgLXUE0bDb pic.twitter.com/HR6YOjd2J0
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 7, 2022
The Atlanta Falcons also issued a statement, accepting the NFL’s decision:
“We were first made aware of the league’s investigation on Feb. 9. 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.”
Ridley is eligible to apply for reinstatement on Feb. 15, 2023. We’ll see if the league decides 1 year is enough of a suspension for the former Crimson Tide standout. For now, though, the Falcons are going to have to move on without the talented receiver.
Adam is a daily fantasy sports (DFS) and sports betting expert. A 2012 graduate of the University of Missouri, Adam now covers all 16 SEC football teams. He is the director of DFS, evergreen and newsletter content across all Saturday Football brands.
