Calvin Ridley has been suspended for at least the entire 2022 NFL season, and it would appear the Atlanta Falcons star does not feel the punishment fits the crime.
The NFL on Monday announced that Ridley will be banned for at least a year after he placed several bets on NFL games in late-November. Shortly after the news broke, Ridley took to Twitter to explain some of his side. The wide receiver hinted that he believes his suspension is too harsh.
I know I was wrong But I’m getting 1 year lol
— CALVIN RIDLEY (@CalvinRidley1) March 7, 2022
Ridley said he bet $1,500 in total and does not have a gambling problem. He also seemed to indicate that he did not have any inside information for the wagers he placed.
I bet 1500 total I don’t have a gambling problem
— CALVIN RIDLEY (@CalvinRidley1) March 7, 2022
I couldn’t even watch football at that point
— CALVIN RIDLEY (@CalvinRidley1) March 7, 2022
The NFL specified that Ridley gambled after he left the Falcons for mental health reasons. Since the 27-year-old bet parlays, investigators felt he did not bet using inside info. Though, Ridley did bet on his own team.
A lot of people agree that the suspension was too harsh, especially when you consider that the punishment is far more severe for domestic violence offenders and PED users. However, the NFL has always emphasized protecting the integrity of the game. That emphasis is what led to Ridley getting caught. Obviously, the league wanted to send a strong message.
Photo: Aug 29, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Calvin Ridley (18) on the field at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
