The Atlanta Falcons wide receiver will be suspended for at least the 2022 season.
The league stated that Ridley bet on NFL matches in the 2021 season during a five-day period in November 2021. During that time, the player was away from the team on the reserve non-football illness list. Ridley stated at the time that this was to work on his mental well-being.
The player has the right to appeal the suspension, and can apply for reinstatement to the league starting on 15 February 2023.
A statement from the Atlanta Falcons read: “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.”
The league noted that its investigation into the player found no evidence that inside information was used or that a game was compromised, or that there was any awareness by coaches, staff, teammates or other players of the betting activity.
In a letter to Ridley, NFL Commissioner Rodger Goodell wrote: “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. 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.
“For decades, gambling on NFL games has been considered among the most significant violations of league policy warranting the most substantial sanction. In your case, I acknowledge and commend you for your promptly reporting for an interview, and for admitting your actions.”
