ATLANTA (KNX) — The National Football League suspended Atlanta Falcons receiver Calvin Ridley Monday, saying that the 27-year-old violated NFL policy by betting on games during the 2021 season. In a series of tweets, Ridley seemingly responded to the suspension, saying he's "going to be more healthy" when he comes back.
In a statement shared by the NFL, the league said the illegal betting took place during a five-day period in late November 2021, "while Ridley was not with the team and was away from the club's facility on the non-football illness list."
In response to Ridley's suspension, the Falcons said the team was made aware of the investigation on Feb. 9 and has cooperated fully.
"We are moving forward in the 2022 season with the decision that was made," the team said. "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 notifying Ridley of his suspension, NFL Commissioner Roger 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."
"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," he continued.
Goodell went on to write that for decades gambling on the games has been "among the most significant violations of league policy warranting the most substantial sanction."
Ridley's suspension will continue through the 2022 season. After that, the league said he may petition for reinstatement on or after Feb. 15, 2023. He also has the right to appeal the suspension.
The Falcons said Ridley played just three games for the team last year and stepped away on Oct. 31, 2021 after submitting a statement that he would be working on his mental wellbeing.
"He did not return and was placed on the NFI list on Nov. 5," the team said in a statement. "Ridley, drafted No. 26 overall in 2018, has 248 receptions for 3,342 yards and 28 touchdowns over four seasons. The Falcons exercised his fifth-year option for the 2022 season last spring."
Ridley's response:
In a series of tweets Monday, Ridley said he "bet $1,500 total" and does not have gambling problem.
He went on to say "I couldn't even watch football at that point," "Just [going to] be more healthy when I come back," and "I know I was wrong but I'm getting one year, lol."
In no way did he directly mention the suspension.
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