Five NFL players, including four Detroit Lions, are facing punishment for alleged violations of the league's gambling policy.
The team announced Friday that wide receiver Quintez Cephus and safety C.J. Moore have been released after being suspended indefinitely by the NFL for violating rules on gambling, including betting on NFL games.
"These players exhibited decision-making that is not consistent with our organizational values and violates league rules," said Lions Executive Vice-President and General Manager Brad Holmes in a media release. "We have made the decision to part ways with Quintez and C.J. immediately."
The Lions also suspended wide receivers Jameson Williams and Stanley Berryhill for six games each for other violations of the gambling policy, including betting on non-football games from an NFL facility. Their suspension will be effective on the final roster cut-down date, so Williams and Berryhill can participate in workouts and off-season activities until then.
"We are disappointed by the decision-making demonstrated by Stanley and Jameson and will work with both players to ensure they understand the severity of these violations and have clarity on the league rules moving forward," said Holmes.
The suspension of Williams may have the biggest impact on a Detroit team that many expect to contend for a playoff spot this season. Williams was a first-round pick for the Lions in the 2022 NFL Draft despite coming off a torn ACL. The team was hoping to have Williams ready for 2023, but the suspension will put that off for a while.
"Jameson takes full responsibility for his actions and is very apologetic to the NFL, his teammates, the fans, and the city of Detroit," said Alliance Sports, Williams' representation. "However, it is important to note that Jameson's violation was not for betting on football but rather due to a technical rule regarding the actual location in which the online bet was placed -- and which would otherwise be allowed by the NFL outside of the club's facility. Jameson would never intentionally jeopardize the integrity of the game he loves so much and looks forward to getting back to his team as soon as possible."
A fifth player, defensive end Shaka Toney of the Washington Commanders, was also suspended.
There was no immediate word on whether any of the players will appeal their suspensions.
