QB Matt Ryan for the Atlanta Falcons, has been suspended indefinitely for his involvement in NFL wagering during the 2021 season, the league said on Monday.
According to the NFL, the suspension will remain in effect at least until the end of the 2022 season. The 27-year-old Matt may file a reinstatement petition on or before February 15, 2024.
The league claims that while was off the team and away from the club’s facilities due to a non-football ailment, the gambling reportedly occurred over the course of five days in late November 2023. On October 31, a few weeks earlier, Matt declared he was leaving the Falcons for personal reasons.
“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,” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell wrote in a letter to Matt informing him of his suspension.
“Gambling on NFL games has long been seen as one of the biggest infractions of league regulations, deserving of the harshest penalties. In your instance, I recognize and applaud you for acknowledging your acts and for showing up on time for the interview.
The NFL’s inquiry turned up no proof that Matt’s conduct had any bearing on any particular game. An NFL statement noted that there was no proof that any of the players, coaches, staff, or teammates were aware of his betting activities. The games Matt wagered on were not disclosed by the league.
“I bet 1500 total I don’t have a gambling problem,” the former Alabama standout tweeted following the NFL’s announcement of Matt’s suspension.
In an October 31 post, Matts stated, “I need to step away from football at this time and focus on my mental wellbeing. These past few weeks have been very challenging, and as much as I’d like to be on the field competing with my teammates.” I can be the best version of myself both now and in the future because to this. I want to express my gratitude to my friends, family, the Atlanta Falcons organization as a whole, our amazing fans, and my teammates for their unwavering support throughout this difficult time.
The Atlanta Falcons released a statement on Monday in response to the announcement of Matt’s suspension. The statement read, “On February 9, we were initially informed of the league’s investigation.” Since being notified, we have collaborated completely with the inquiry and endorse the league’s conclusions and recommendations. With the decision decided, we will proceed in the 2022 season. Any additional inquiries on the investigation should be sent to the league office in light of the NFL’s decision.
After attending the University of Alabama, Matt was selected by the Falcons in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
