NFL investigating Colts player over suspicious betting activity

On Monday, the NFL announced that it was investigating an unnamed Indianapolis Colts player for potential violations of the league’s gambling laws.

The player was found to have engaged in “pervasive” wagering activities, such as placing bets on his own team. The player in question reportedly placed hundreds of wagers.

The Colts confirmed the investigation in a statement on Monday: “We are aware of the NFL’s investigation and will have no further comment at this time.”

Several sources have since reported that the Colts player under investigation is Isaiah Rodgers. The defensive back and kick returner was a 2020 sixth-round draft pick and is currently in the final year of his four-year, $3.4 million contract with the Colts.

It is being reported that the sportsbook account used by the Colts player was opened under the name of an acquaintance. Most of the wagering occurred in 2022, and some spilled into the 2023 season.

The bets were mostly within the $25-$50 range; however, the player was found to have placed at least one low four-figure wager.

Jenny Reske, the Deputy Director of the Indiana Gaming Commission, disclosed that the IGC was investigating the situation.

“I can confirm that we have received information pertaining to this matter and we are following developments,” Reske stated.

“The IGC is not the lead agency because it involves violations of league policy. We will, however, continue to review information as it emerges to see if it requires any regulatory action.”

A spokesperson for the NFL declined to comment, and the Colts refused to expand on their initial statement. The NFL Players Association is also yet to release a statement.

The news comes only weeks after the NFL suspended five players for sports wagering violations. Former Detroit Lions wide receiver Quintez Cephus and former Lions safety C.J. Moore received one-year suspensions each for betting on NFL games, while Lions wide receivers Stanley Berryhill and Jameson Williams were issued six-game bans for betting on non-NFL sports while at league facilities.

The 2022 gambling policy for NFL personnel states: “Gambling in the Workplace or While Working: NFL Personnel shall not engage in any form of Gambling in any club or League facility or venue (e.g., practice facility, stadium, team hotel, Draft or other League or club event); on any League or club charter or other transport; while traveling on club or League business; or while making an endorsement or promotional appearance.”

There have been several other betting incidents in the college and pro sports scene in recent weeks involving coaches, athletes, and other personnel.

Last month, the University of Alabama fired its baseball coach, Brad Bohannon, for sports betting violations. A few days later, the University of Iowa and Iowa State University announced similar, separate investigations into prohibited wagering activities amongst athletes in the school.

More gambling news